Living in the dorm not only deprives you of personal space, but it also limits what you can have with you in your room. Banned appliances include toasters, toaster ovens and hot plates.

Without these handy tools, how can you expect to make a decent meal for yourself? Don’t fret – we have the answer. All you’ll need is a microwave and refrigerator, which are university approved!

Appetizer

Don’t have the space for fresh ingredients or room to cut them? Try a bagged salad! Choose from a wide variety at your local grocery store. My favorite is kale and cranberry with poppy seed dressing! Sounds fancy, right?

Main Course

Pasta in the microwave – yes, it’s a thing! This quick fix to a college meal staple doesn’t have to just be Easy Mac or Ramen. Buy your favorite noodles at the store and cook them in a bowl of water in the microwave instead!

In the mood for something different? Try microwaved chicken and rice. You might be making an “ew” face at the idea of frozen chicken – but don’t knock it till you try it! Purchase a bag of quality, precooked grilled chicken in the frozen food isle. For the rice, follow the instructions on the box for microwave use and be sure to use a microwave-safe bowl!

Dessert

Mug. Brownie. Need I say more? Simply mix up the ingredients in your favorite microwave-safe mug and enjoy this gooey, chocolatey treat! Pro tip: add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top to complete the experience.

And there you have it! For a moment, this delicious meal will make you feel like you are dining in a fancy restaurant – just ignore the buzzing fluorescent lights and dingy dorm smell in the background!

Maybe dorm-room dining isn’t your thing. Luckily, Auburn’s campus has great healthy choices such as Plains to Plate in The Quad or Terra Nova Salads in Foy. Also, you can always call TigerTownToGo and have food from your favorite restaurants delivered right to your dorm.

Have your own favorite dorm-approved recipes? Share them with us on social media @AuburnCampusRec.

Be well, Auburn.

Photography: Julia B.