An SU Girl's Guide to Eating Clean at the Dining Hall
For the days you are sick of eating pizza.
by EMMY CASLOWITZ ★ APR. 03, 2017
College eats are not always easy, especially when you can't order Good Uncle for every meal. With summer just around the corner, it's time for you to save money and eat clean(er). As much as we all hate the dining hall, there are some hidden gems. Try out these tips and you will soon realize the dining hall is not as bad as you think!
Take a lap!
Unless you go into the dining hall knowing exactly what you want to eat, walk around and check out the options. If the chicken is looking especially dry or the lettuce is looking wilted, keep walking.
Check out the vegan and gluten-free options
The vegan bar is not always as dreadful as it seems. For great sources of protein, try a veggie burger and falafel. With the addition of a little salt and hummus or guacamole, this combination can definitely go a long way.
While some days are better than others, the gluten-free chicken is almost always less dry than the chicken off the grill. Also make sure to snag a gluten-free black and white cookie on the way out — so much better and healthier than the regular ones!
When all else fails, hit up the sandwich bar
If different specialties are not your thing, and you don’t feel like eating pizza for the third day in a row, the sandwich bar is the perfect go-to. They offer a variety of options that can satisfy almost any craving. Pick a wrap or bread, add toppings and you’re good to go.
A popular choice includes deli chicken, Swiss cheese, arugula (from the salad bar), tomato, onion and a little drizzle of olive oil. When ordering in the sandwich line, always ask for less meat and more cheese. If you don't, you will find yourself eating at least four slices of meat and only one piece of cheese. After you order, remember to toast your sandwich to melt that cheese and add some crunch.
Veggies are your friends!
Although we dread the greens, we need them. Throw some hummus on the side of your plate and call it a day. Surprisingly, the hummus distributed throughout the dining halls is not terrible, and makes cucumbers taste a hundred times better. If you’re not in the mood for hummus, ranch is a good substitute.
The veggie bar offers a variety of options, but there are a few to avoid. Most of the time, the cherry tomatoes look a little mushy and the celery is questionable. But the cucumbers and carrots always seem to be fresh and crunchy — perfect with hummus, or a little dressing.
Lastly, grab some ice cream.
The dining hall ice cream is always a necessity, especially after you ate so well. If you are not into the soft serve one day, grab a Cookiewich on the way out. They are to die for, and after all, you deserve it.
As college students, it is important to take care of our bodies and eat well. After a night of greasy Acropolis or Calios, head to the dining hall for some healthy options.