So you've just moved into your first apartment or house, and your cabinets are as empty as Memorial Library on a Saturday night. You can't wait to go to the grocery store to get all your favorite foods, but when you sit down to eat your first meal, you realize something is missing - or, to be exact, a lot of things are missing. The chicken is sticking to the pan, you can't get it out, and the fresh veggies you got from the farmers' market are nearly tasteless.
Before this disaster of a kitchen ruins your delectable dinner at home, consider the essential foods you will need to make your first kitchen complete. Are you an average college student and a preoccupied workaholic? A health conscious consumer or a take-out lover? Check out the lists below for what you will need to make your dream meal come true.
The Collegiate Cabinets
Before you run to the nearest store to stock up on soda and chips, consider these kitchen must-haves to add to your grocery list.
Frozen protein and veggies- Stock up on chicken, beef, fish or the protein of your choosing. Although fresh food is often ideal, buying frozen meat and vegetables allows you to keep them longer instead of running to the store every other day. You can even cook extras when you have time on the weekends and freeze them so they're ready to defrost during the week in-between classes.
Pam or olive oil- No matter what you cook, you're going to need one of these to provide a non-stick surface. Plus, extra virgin olive oil can help even the most inexperienced cook add a rich flavor to any meal.
Red Solo cups- You definitely won't forget the beverage that goes inside, but if you don't spring for some extra Solo cups, your first party could be a beer pong-less disaster.
Pancake mix- Who ever said you can't have breakfast for dinner? Buy a mix you only need to add water to and you have an ultra-fast meal. If you want to add some nutritional value, throw in your favorite fruit. Sliced apples with cinnamon and brown sugar are always a good option.
The Nutritious Nibbler
You might think you have your healthy eating down, but once you are tempted by all Madison has to offer, you might forget your food morals.
Fresh Veggies and Dip- Instead of reaching for the chips and creamy dip, opt for cut vegetables and a salsa or low-fat ranch. You can use both of these choices for dips and salads or marinating meat and fish. Hummus is another excellent nutritious dip selection that can add protein to a vegetarian diet.
Your favorite late-night alternative- Whether you crave greasy Pizza Di Roma or D.P Dough's warm, chocolaty cookies, try to find a way to replace these fattening foods with more healthy ingredients in your own kitchen. Pita bread or crackers, tomato sauce and low-fat shredded mozzerella make a pizza that could satisfy almost any craving. Even if you don't like to stock your cabinets with cookies, buying low-fat options and microwaving them when necessary can help curb a high-calorie craving.
Frozen fruit- While frozen vegetables are fairly common, many hit up local fruit stands for organic fare. But seasonal fruit goes bad fast, and you might end up wasting most of it. Frozen fruit is perfect for smoothies and makes a sweet topping for yogurt or low-fat ice cream. Put your frozen favorites on the stove with some water and sugar for a fruit compote to adds vitamins and flavor to any snack.
The Busy Eater
If you're in a hurry, it can be easier to grab something on the go or on the way to class. But consider these tasty tidbits to save some money and your health.
Coffee beans- If you're a student on the go, you might be stuck in the habit of running into your nearest Steep 'N Brew or Fair Trade Coffee, but these daily cups of sanity can cost you a pretty caffeine-laden penny. If the thought of brewing a pot of Folgers in the morning gives you the jitters, try buying the beans from your favorite spot. It will save you money, and you can also save the leftovers for an iced coffee drink later.
Tupperware- If you have time to throw together a meal on the weekends, make extra and section it into small containers for lunch or dinner during the week. If pasta is your meal of choice, add a drop of olive oil with any protein or mixed veggies you have in the fridge for a flavorful meal in seconds.
Peanut butter- Even when it seems like you don't have the ingredients to make that simple sandwich you love to splurge on at Sunroom Café, don't forget about that childhood classic. Peanut butter and jelly are a timeless pairing, but if you want to change it up, slice some bananas over the top or spread on Nutella, marshmallow fluff or honey instead. If you find yourself with leftover peanut butter, stir it into a homemade pad thai sauce with that leftover pasta.
Now you have everything you need to cook up - or heat up - some delicious meals in your new apartment. Don't forget about these staples everyone should keep on hand for any occasion: salt and pepper shakers, a silverware holder, milk, condiments (ketchup, mustard, mayo or whatever pleases your palate), sugar, butter and eggs.
Also remember not to splurge too much at the farmers' market or the Library Mall fruit cart. These are two great options for fresh fare, but to save time and money, don't forget about these kitchen staples to complete your basic kitchen needs. Bon appétit!
