Carrot & ginger soup

Low-fat and warming, this bean and vegetable soup makes a healthy lunch or dinner – for even more nutrients, top with sliced almonds

Microwave biryani

Quick and easy, this spicy supper for two is perfect for using up the vegetables you have in your fridge, plus it can be cooked in one pot in the microwave

Microwave penne pappa al pomodoro

This perfect pasta dish for one can be whipped up in just 25 minutes using only a microwave – ideal for a quick lunch or weeknight dinner

Toffee apple cake

This showstopping bake is a celebration of classic apple desserts with spiced sponge, vanilla icing and a sticky caramel apple filling

Gluten-free storecupboard fishcakes

This family favourite is a great way to get seafood into a gluten-free diet – and by using canned tuna it fits into even the strictest of student budgets

Quick & spicy nasi goreng

Save on the washing up with this speedy supper for one, with wholesome ingredients like Chinese cabbage and brown rice, finished with a fried egg

Mexican pulled chicken & beans

This budget-busting sharing platter of slow-cooked chipotle chicken is perfect for feeding a crowd – and won’t break a student budget, either

Sprout salad with citrus & pomegranate

Brussels sprouts make a great alternative to cabbage or kale in slaws and salads – let them soak up this zesty dressing for a side dish packed with fresh flavours and texture

Brussels & blue cheese pizza

An Alsatian-style white pizza, the sprouts in this recipe gratinate in a puddle of blue cheese and mascarpone – you can make the homemade pizza dough the day before

Squash & venison tagine

Fragrantly spiced, this Moroccan-style stew with ginger, cinnamon and cloves will become your go-to main dish for a make ahead dinner party menu