Lunch

Lunch is a pretty loose term referring to a meal that's eaten any time between breakfast and dinner. This means that the food eaten varies enormously and it could be anything from a basic sandwich to a full on sit down two-course extravaganza.

Anything Goes

What you eat for lunch at university might well depend on the quality of your canteen and the selection of food available. If it offers good-quality hot meals you might be tempted to tuck into one of these and save yourself the effort of cooking a big meal in the evening. However, if the display is a motley selection of wilted sarnies, you might just stick to the coffee and bring your own lunch in with you, or pop back home for something if you don't live too far away.

Soup and Roll

You can't beat this for a quick winter warmer! Make a big batch of soup at the weekend and you've got lunch sorted for days. Just reheat a bowl of it in the microwave, top with croutons or some grated cheese and serve with a warm crusty roll for dunking.

Leftover Dinner

While the word 'leftover' doesn't exactly conjure up images of gourmet heaven, this is a really quick and easy option. Simply make a bit extra of whatever you're having for dinner and then keep it in the fridge and reheat it for lunch the next day. Something like pasta is ideal, as this can be eaten cold so you can take it into uni with you.

Filled Pitta

Pop a wholemeal pitta in the toaster for a minute or two (leave cold if you're taking it to college). Carefully slice along the top to create a pocket then fill with salmon and cucumber; cheese and pickle; or any other favourite sandwich filling. Press down slightly and cut in half.

Wrap

A pack of tortillas will make delicious lunches for a good few days. Tuna and sweetcorn; feta cheese, olive and tomato; or carrot and hummus are all good fillings to try. Spread the filling evenly over the tortilla, leaving a 1cm gap all round. Fold a small piece in vertically on either side then carefully roll the wrap up horizontally from the bottom. Cut in half and the filling will be kept safely inside.

Baked Potato

Cheap, filling and delicious. Cook in the microwave if you're short of time and fill with tuna mayonnaise; beans and cheese; coleslaw; or cottage cheese.

Bean Feast

Empty three small cans of different beans (such as kidney, borlotti, butter beans, pinto) into a mixing bowl. Add a small can of sweetcorn and a chunk of cucumber, cut into small dice. Stir in a handful of chopped fresh mint and coriander and drizzle with olive oil. Serve with some warm pitta, or other flat bread.

Lunch is a great meal, as there are no rules and you can make it as simple or complicated as you like. From sandwiches to all day breakfasts; salads to pasta feasts, just tuck in and enjoy!