58 Cheap Vegetarian Meals (great recipes for students!)
Why you’ll love this dish
If you’re a student or just someone looking for a quick, affordable meal, this cheap vegetarian recipe is a lifesaver. Packed with flavor and nutrition, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’ve got a million things to do. One of the best parts about this dish is that it’s not just healthy, but it also allows for endless variations depending on what you have on hand. And if you’re looking for more budget-friendly meals, check out these 30 cheap healthy dinners that can also satisfy picky eaters in your life.
"This ramen dish quickly became my go-to during exam week. It’s so easy to prepare and keeps me full without breaking the bank!" – A grateful student. You may also find Best 6 Comforting Dinner Recipes For Cozy Nights useful.
The cooking process explained
Making this delicious bowl of ramen may sound daunting, but it’s actually quite straightforward! It consists of a few simple steps: cooking the noodles, preparing the veggies, and mixing a flavorful sauce that brings everything together. Once you see how easy it is, you’ll want to make it all the time.
Ingredients you’ll need:
- 4.5 oz ramen noodles, dried (can be replaced with udon, soba, or mie)
- 2 eggs
- 1 medium carrot
- 8 cherry tomatoes
- ½ small zucchini (green or yellow)
- 2 green onions
- ¼ cup corn
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 ½ tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 ½ tbsp peanut butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds
- Chili flakes
- Shredded nori leaves
Directions to follow
- Start by cooking the ramen noodles according to the package instructions until they’re tender.
- In a small pot, bring water to a boil and cook the eggs for about 7 minutes. Once done, transfer them to cold water and let them cool before peeling.
- Prepare the vegetables: grate or shave the carrot, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the zucchini into thin strips, and chop the green onions.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, peanut butter, and a bit of water until fully combined.
- If you want to enjoy this dish immediately, place the noodles in a bowl, drizzle the sauce over them, and top with the veggies and sliced eggs. Then season with salt and pepper.
- For meal prep, layer the cold noodles in a mason jar, drizzle with sauce, and then add layers of corn, tomatoes, zucchini, carrots, eggs, and scallions, seasoning each layer lightly. Add your optional toppings before closing the jar. Store in a cool place and enjoy later.
How to serve cheap vegetarian meals
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be revved up with a few creative serving ideas. Try garnishing with sesame seeds or chili flakes for some extra crunch or heat. Pair it with a simple side salad or a bowl of miso soup to make it a comforting meal. You can also explore variations of this recipe by checking out some easy healthy recipes for families that inspire creativity.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days. When reheating, a quick stir in a pan with a splash of water can help revive the noodles without compromising their texture. Be sure to handle leftover eggs safely and keep them in the fridge if not consumed right away.
Pro chef tips
- For a richer flavor, consider toasting sesame seeds before sprinkling them over your dish.
- Use whatever vegetables are in season or you have on hand—this recipe is incredibly flexible.
- If you want a bit of protein, you can add tofu or edamame to round out the meal without breaking the bank.
Creative twists
Don’t hesitate to switch things up! Try incorporating different flavors or ingredients, such as spinach, bell peppers, or even a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick. You might also love experimenting with peanut sauce or adding a touch of coconut milk for a creamy version. For more delightful variations, explore these best healthy recipes for families.
FAQ
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
Overall, you’re looking at about 20-30 minutes from start to finish.
Can I use gluten-free noodles?
Absolutely! Look for rice noodles or other gluten-free options to keep this dish inclusive.
Is it safe to eat eggs that have been cooked and stored for a day?
Yes, as long as you’ve stored them properly in the refrigerator and consumed them within a few days.
Conclusion
This cheap vegetarian meal is not only delicious but also versatile and quick to prepare, making it ideal for any student or busy individual. If you’re looking to spice things up in the kitchen, you might enjoy this Jamie Oliver Vegetable Jalfrezi recipe, which is another fantastic student-friendly option. Additionally, for further culinary inspiration, check out Veggie and the Beast for more vegetarian recipes. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Vegetarian Ramen
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions until tender.
- In a small pot, bring water to a boil and cook the eggs for about 7 minutes. Transfer them to cold water to cool before peeling.
- Grate or shave the carrot, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the zucchini into thin strips, and chop the green onions.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, peanut butter, and a bit of water until fully combined.
- Place the noodles in a bowl, drizzle with sauce, and top with veggies and sliced eggs. Season with salt and pepper.
- For meal prep, layer cold noodles in a mason jar, drizzle with sauce, then add layers of corn, tomatoes, zucchini, carrots, eggs, and scallions, seasoning each layer lightly before closing the jar.
