University cooking tips
As many university students head back for the autumn term, Waitrose executive chef Martyn Lee gives his key ingredients and hints for creating delicious and easy dishes, whether you’re a complete cooking novice or have experience in the kitchen
Freezer staples
As a student, budgeting is key, so my first tip is to embrace the freezer. Stock up on ingredients like the Essential Waitrose Grilled Vegetable Mix, for a no-waste, ready prepared medley of vegetables that can easily be stirred into a chilli or pasta dish, served alongside simple grilled chicken, or stir-fried or baked from frozen for a straightforward accompaniment. Keeping some Waitrose British Turkey Breast Mince in the freezer is a great way to always have tomorrow’s dinner planned. Try these easy recipes.
Transform leftovers
A couple of key pastes in the cupboard can transform meals from mediocre to amazing in seconds, for delicious dinners with minimal effort. A spoonful of the Cooks' Ingredients Chilli Con Carne Paste and a tin of kidney beans into yesterday’s Bolognese sauce will spice things up and make it feel like a brand new meal. Or mix any curry paste you like with a tin of tomatoes, leftover cooked meat (or you could use prawns) and some chopped peppers and mushrooms to make an easy, speedy curry.
At a loss with what to do with leftover wraps after fajita night? Cut into triangles and bake briefly in the oven for crunchy homemade tortilla chips, delicious with dips, turned into nachos or as a moreish side.
Perfect pasta
Having pasta in the cupboard means a simple dinner is always only moments away. Try this quick carbonara recipe, with just a handful of ingredients.
Sausages are another surprisingly versatile ingredient – not just for a fry-up or sandwich. Remove the skins and crumble into a pan with some garlic, olive oil and chilli to make a delicious addition to pasta or gnocchi. Shapes like conchiglie rigate or farfalle work well for this kind of dish. Why not start with these ideas...
Breakfast boost
If getting up for breakfast is a challenge, why not combine some of our frozen Waitrose Love Life Strawberry and Banana Smoothie Mix with a little milk in a blender, to set yourselves up for a day on campus in no time?
Or try one of our simple recipes for a breakfast that’s a little more interesting (and satisfying) than a piece of toast...
PB&J PORRIDGE
Warming porridge with an irresistible peanut butter and frozen raspberry topping
BIRCHER MUESLI WITH DARK CHERRIES
Make a big batch one evening to see you through a few days
MEXICAN-STYLE EGGS
For mornings after the night before, this will hit the spot
for more inspiration and recipes