Simple, quality food that keeps a budget

For many college students, a nutritious meal consists of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and a Mountain Dew.

Personally, I can only handle so much peanut butter in a lifetime. After about a week of college, I was ready for something different.

There are many food options on campus, but what does someone do on the days they have no meals left on a meal plan? Lucky for you, preparing a quick and cheap meal is as easy as following a quick recipe.

Quick Chicken Parmesan Pasta

2 cups rotini pasta, uncooked – $0.82
1 pkg. (10 oz.) frozen chopped broccoli – $0.98
1 pkg. (6 oz.) Deli Fresh Italian Style Chicken Breast
Strips – $4.00
2 Tbsp. olive oil – $0.05
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese – $0.65
1 tomato, cut into chunks – $1.26
Total: $7.76

Cook pasta as directed on package.

Meanwhile, place broccoli in medium microwavable bowl. Microwave on high five minutes; stir in chicken breast strips. Microwave two minutes or until heated through; drain.

Drain pasta. Place in a large bowl. Add oil and cheese; toss to coat. Add broccoli mixture and tomato; mix lightly.

For the cost of about eight dollars, you have a meal that’s easy to prepare and serves four (that’s $1.94 a meal). If you don’t feel like eating alone, invite a few friends along. The four of you can enjoy a nice time together, or if needed, doubling the ingredients takes no more than a little math and a bit more ingredients. Plus, mealtime is a fun opportunity to share with friends. After all, when there’s no peanut butter involved, everyone’s happy.