Between classes, work, and student life, eating well in college can feel impossible. But, cooking your own meals can save serious money, support your health, and even become a fun way to de-stress or bond with others. It’s not about being a chef, it’s about finding simple ways to feed yourself better while making the most of what’s already around you.
Resources on Campus You Should Know About
Luckily, our campus offers awesome support for students who want to start cooking, even on a budget:
📚 Library Cookbooks
From easy 5-ingredient meals to plant-based recipes, our library has a wide range of cookbooks available both in print and online. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or learning how to boil an egg (no judgment!), there’s something for you. (See the recommended list below.)
🌱 Campus Farm & Farmers Market
Tucked between the sports fields and the North Parking Garage, the Campus Farm is full of raised beds, fruit trees, compost bins, and pollinator-friendly plants. You can volunteer, adopt a garden bed, or just explore! There’s also a Farmers Market at the Library CODEX, a part of the SpringFest 2025 event on Tuesday, May 20th where you can pick up fresh, local produce that are perfect for your next meal.
Image Credit Campus Sustainability
👉 More about the Farmers Market
🥦 Free Produce Events
Throughout the quarter, keep an eye out for food security events or pop-up giveaways offering free fruits, vegetables, or pantry staples. They’re a great way to stretch your grocery budget and maybe try a new recipe while you’re at it.
My Cooking Adventure
Last quarter, I decided to actually use these resources instead of just knowing about them. I read The Quick and Easy College Cookbook from the library digital collection, grabbed some kale and herbs from the campus farm, and stopped by a produce giveaway where I scored carrots and onions. I ended up making a big veggie curry that lasted four days, traded leftovers with a friend for banana bread, and realized: this is what college should feel like. The creativity, togetherness, and surprisingly delicious.
Tips for Cooking in College
🍳 You will never go wrong when you start simple. Stir fries, pastas, and one-pan meals are lifesavers.
🍲 Make a batch of them! Make meals that can last a few days that save you time later.
🥕 Use what you’ve got. Whether it’s the free carrots you picked up or the herbs from campus, let the ingredients guide you.
🍽️ Cook with friends. Turn it into a shared activity and it won’t feel like a chore.
Bonus: Cookbooks Worth Checking Out
Here are some solid picks from the library to get you started:
The everything gluten-free college cookbook by Carrie S. Forbes.
The healthy college cookbook : quick, cheap, easy by Alexandra Nimetz.
The Quick and Easy College Cookbook by Massachusetts Avon: Adams Media.
Complete College cookbook : 100+ easy recipes and helpful tips for students by Julee Morrison.
The $5 a meal college vegetarian cookbook: good, cheap vegetarian recipes for when you need to eat by Nicole Cormier.
💡 Ask a circulation student assistant/staff, librarian, or browse the digital collection to find one that fits your vibe.
Try It Out!
You don’t need a fancy kitchen or a big budget to start cooking in college, just a little curiosity and the willingness to try. Explore what campus has to offer, test a recipe or two, and maybe even trade dishes with a friend. If you’ve got tips or hacks that make cooking easier, share them! Everyone has a best recipe.
