Meriam Ahmad

Balancing a tight budget while maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be challenging for students. However, there are plenty of cost-effective ways to incorporate protein-rich meals into your diet without breaking the bank. In this article, we’ll explore five delicious and budget-friendly high-protein meals that are perfect for students.

Chickpea and Spinach Curry:

Ingredients:

– Canned chickpeas

– Frozen spinach

– Onion

– Garlic

– Curry spices (turmeric, cumin, coriander)

– Canned tomatoes

– Rice or naan (optional)

Instructions:

Sauté chopped onions and garlic, add canned tomatoes, chickpeas, and frozen spinach. Season with curry spices and let it simmer. Serve over rice or with naan for a satisfying and protein-packed meal.

Quinoa and Black Bean Salad:

Ingredients:

– Quinoa

– Canned black beans

– Corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)

– Bell peppers

– Cherry tomatoes

– Cilantro

– Lime juice

– Olive oil

Instructions:

Cook quinoa and mix with drained black beans, corn, diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and chopped cilantro. Dress with lime juice and olive oil for a tasty and protein-rich salad.

Egg Fried Rice:

Ingredients:

– Cooked rice (leftover rice works best)

– Eggs

– Mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)

– Soy sauce

– Sesame oil

Instructions:

Stir-fry mixed vegetables in a pan, push them to the side, scramble eggs, and combine with cooked rice. Add soy sauce and sesame oil for flavor. This quick and simple dish is a great source of protein and can be customized with your favorite veggies.

Peanut Butter Banana Wrap:

Ingredients:

– Whole wheat tortilla

– Peanut butter

– Banana

– Honey (optional)

Instructions:

Spread peanut butter on a whole wheat tortilla, add sliced bananas, and drizzle with honey if desired. Roll it up for a delicious and protein-packed wrap that’s perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.

Lentil Soup:

Ingredients:

– Dried lentils

– Carrots

– Celery

– Onion

– Garlic

– Vegetable broth

– Cumin, coriander, and thyme

– Salt and pepper

Instructions:

Sauté chopped onions and garlic, add diced carrots and celery, then stir in dried lentils and vegetable broth. Season with cumin, coriander, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer until lentils are tender, and you have a hearty, high-protein soup.

Eating on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing nutrition. These five budget-friendly high-protein meals are not only affordable but also delicious and easy to prepare. Incorporate these recipes into your weekly meal plan to ensure you’re getting the protein you need without straining your wallet.