It’s only been a week since I’ve returned to campus, and I’ve already spent most of that time experimenting in my apartment’s kitchen. I have committed myself to the trial and error of testing new dorm recipes I can quickly make during busy weeknights.

One of the best cocktails I’ve made so far is the Dandelion. Inspired by one of my favorite summer drinks—lemonade—this cocktail evokes a nostalgic sour yet sugary flavor, but it’s a bit more sophisticated than your classic vodka lemonade. 

This flavorful salad is made up of ingredients that hold up well in the fridge, so you can make a large batch to keep on hand and enjoy throughout the week. You can also make a small batch to enjoy on the spot, which I often do because of how simple and foolproof this dish truly is. 

The dining hall has almost all the ingredients I would use to make mac and cheese at home, so I figured I would be ambitious and give this recipe a go. It ended up working so well that I have added this dish to my weekly dorm dinner rotation, and I’m eager to share it with you!

Avocado toast is a dish you can easily make in your dorm as it requires few steps and materials. The only tricky part is making a poached egg without a stovetop. I’m not one to compromise when it comes to avocado toast though, so I’ve mastered a microwave egg-poaching strategy. 

On days when I need a quick and filling meal or I feel homesick and need something reminiscent of home, this fried rice comes in handy. 

Though it’s often considered the most important meal of the day, breakfast can be a toss-up when you’re a college student. With places to be and sleep to catch up on, breakfast is sometimes—let’s be honest, usually—a no-go.

These fajitas are hearty, healthy, and packed with flavor, and all you need to make them is a toaster oven!

My fellow Heights editors changed my life more than they probably recognize. So, I wanted to craft a cocktail that would serve as a toast to each and every one of them.