The cafeteria at Point Loma Nazarene University is a mix of good and bad experiences, but for those brave enough to do it on their own, delightful meals can be made from the comfort of your own dorm without the journey or the risks that come with the caf. 

In addition to the communal kitchen areas, PLNU’s appliance policy, according to the “What-to-Bring list” on the university “Campus Living” webpage, allows for students to have small appliances, including a mini-fridge, microwave, coffee maker, tea kettle, blender and rice cooker. With these tools, most  students are capable of taking charge of their own nourishment.

Pro Tip: check that dishware is microwave safe and stick to PLNU guidelines to ensure that everyone remains safe and to minimize accidents. These recipes are intended to be customized, meaning that not all ingredients are necessary.  Substitutions and experimentation are an encouraged part of the  process. Cooking is a time to be bold and take control of what fuels people through all the ups and downs of life. Be mindful of how the food that nourishes the body connects to the soul through the experience of making a meal for yourself.

BREAKFAST, the suggested most important meal of the day:

Other than the basic and boring oatmeal, fruit and coffee or tea you have had too many times in your college career, breakfast is a great time to have fun and start the day off on the right foot. This breakfast burrito recipe is simple enough to throw together in the morning or prepare in advance to grab and go for those early classes.

Pushing aside the smoothies, salads and sandwiches, macaroni and cheese is a classic lunch time meal to avoid that midday slump. Noodles and cheese have an iconic reputation for being a perfect comfort food combination to bring joy to any day. Culinary-inclined people have made it as easy as possible to make this cheesy macaroni anywhere, anytime, with practically anything. From “Gemma’s Bigger Bolder Baking,” this “mug mac n cheese” recipe is perfect to experiment with ingredients.

DINNER, the meal you eat while watching Netflix:

Any student looking to share or impress can turn to this microwave mushroom risotto that is as appetizing as it is elegant. It is more advanced than the other recipes listed, but the results are worth it. Do not be afraid to make mistakes or make changes to make this recipe right for you. This creamy dinner is great for sharing, but keep in mind that leftovers will not give the same luxurious impression.

GLUTEN-FREE DINNER, people who are gluten free get a lot of hate, but really I respect them for going against the grain:

The on-campus gluten-free options are slim to none, so students must either hope that there is a friendly option being served or take initiative to make their own meals. However, “Healthy Nibbles” by Lisa Lin makes cooking fun and gratifying for all, even those with dietary restrictions. Her specialty includes Asian and Asian-inspired dishes including vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free. This recipe draws on her specialty to give dorm-living some spice with this egg fried rice in a mug.

VEGAN DINNER, for the self-made herbivores:

This recipe calls for a pot and stove, but creative students can easily replicate this recipe in their dorm room with a large bowl and boiling water from a kettle or in a rice cooker.

Written By: Rachel Grace Heckle

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