How to Eat Good Food on a Student Budget

Attempting to eat anything other than noodles and plain pasta on a student budget may seem like a daunting task. Putting a frozen pizza in the oven seems like the easy option for many; it's quick, seemingly cheap, and very convenient. However, there is another way.

Eating fresh food is not only better for you than eating takeaway meals and microwave dinners, but it's also significantly cheaper. Here are a few great tips to save money, eat fresh, and feel better.

Seasonal Fruit and Vegetables

Although it can be tempting to use all the readily available supermarket fruit and veg all year round, it's better to try to use seasonal produce instead. For example, in November, leeks and potatoes are in season. A great excuse to make a mass of hearty leek and potato soup to get you through the winter months. These gluts means that your shopping bill will reduce if you only buy what's in season, as produce is cheaper when it's in season.

Cook Together

Cooking for one can be tricky to do, so if you decide to cook a big meal with your flatmates you're likely to not only save money but you'll also get something more substantial than a mini pizza. You could split the food shopping bill for the week, have designated nights where you cook together, or arrange a rota so everybody has the chance to show off their speciality dish. Splash out once a month and have a big Sunday roast. It's surprisingly cheap when you share the cost, and the leftover meat can be used to make a delicious stock for later use.

Your Freezer is Your Friend

Making food in bulk is a great way to save money. Why not use an afte
oon off to make a huge lasagne, on your own or with friends? You can portion it up into takeaway boxes and then defrost individual portions when you need them. Food keeps for ages when it's frozen, and doesn't lose any of its flavour or goodness. Great for when you just can't be bothered to cook but want something yummy. Particularly good for during exam season!

Buy Local

It might not seem like your idea of a good time to go to the greengrocers or butchers, but buying locally really does make a difference. The deals aren't as tempting as the glossy supermarkets, but the produce is infinitely better, and you'll be supporting an independent business. It might seem like you're spending more than you normally would, but in reality you'll find that those potatoes are bigger and therefore last longer, and everything tastes far better.

These are just a few tips for eating fresh food, there are plenty of other things you can do too. There's no harm in having a Chinese once in a while, but making one yourself is fun, better for you, and cheaper. Not to mention that you'll be able to afford a few more pints with all the cash you're saving by avoiding the microwave meals! So what are you waiting for? Get in the kitchen, and get cooking.