A well supplied snack pantry is insurance against energy crashes and hangry roommates alike. While the on-campus dining halls and local dives provide most of the meals of dormitory, any student would be remiss to have a room devoid of snacks.

Whether it’s the late-night munchies, study fuel, post-workout recovery or the required popcorn for your netflix and chill nights, we’ve got you covered.

Stock up your mini fridge and shelves with this variety of speedy and simple foods.

Breakfast

One of the beautiful aspects of on-campus life is the ability to roll out of bed exactly four minutes before class and still make it before the lecture begins.

Grab something portable to keep your eyes open during those early morning. Top a banana or apple with a scoop of nut butter for a quick combo of carbs, protein, and healthy fats. Single serve cups of yogurt dish up a hit of protein and can easily be thrown into a backpack. Toss a handful of granola on top for some crunch. Instant oatmeal can be whipped together in a mug in less than 60 seconds. Choose plain instant oats and add your own honey and cinnamon.

Snacks

Beat back the 2:30pm drag with a quick bite.

An ideal afternoon snack should be light, yet tasty and filling enough to satisfy until dinner comes around. Stash a container of hummus in the fridge. Pair your spread with crispy veggies, like carrots, bell peppers, and celery. Pita chips and crackers go great with a cheese stick or a shelf-stable mini round, like Babybel.

A jar of salsa can also be a great way to sneak in a few extra vegetables to your busy days. Popcorn is airy, but can be just the hit of salt you may be craving. Boost the store-bought stuff by adding your own toppings spices, such as dried oregano and Parmesan cheese.

Make homemade trail mix by combining a handful of nuts, dried fruit, and something slightly sweet. The varieties are as numerous as your imagination. Try almonds, pumpkin seeds, golden raisins, and cashews or mix dried cherries, pecans, and dark chocolate chips. Toss dried bananas and pineapple with cashews, coconut flakes, and walnuts for a tropical vibe.

Mini Meals

When nights get late and delivery takes too long, have some mini meals on hand to top of the tank.

Ramen and mac n’ cheese are the stereotypical college staples. Go beyond the usual fare. Prick a potato with a fork and microwave until softened, then top it with sour cream, cheese, and bacon bits. Spread hummus or cream cheese on a bagel, then load it up with some crunchy veggies: cucumbers and peppers go well on anything.

Fill half a tortilla with cheese, and black beans, then fold and microwave for a quick quesadilla.

Don’t limit your creativity in the dorms. Necessity is said to be the mother of invention and few things are more necessary in college than a good meal. A little preparation can launch a sad desk snack to a whole new level of deliciousness. And more delicious food equals happier you.

Collegian Arts and Culture Reporter Cody Moore can be reached at entertainment@collegian.com.