Please By Julie Garden-Robinson, Food and Nutrition Specialist NDSU Extension Service I remember the creative, but not entirely appetizing, meals prepared by my fellow college students who lived in the dorm but chose not to be on the campus meal plan. Since full-size ranges aren t standard equipment in dorm rooms, the most creative chefs used hot pots and popcorn poppers to cook everything from spaghetti to pancakes to eggs. Ramen noodles and macaroni and cheese were menu staples. Somehow we all survived. At some point most of us have to fend for ourselves in the kitchen.
College often becomes the first time young adults have to prepare their own food.
Remaining single, losing a spouse or divorce also can lead to solo cooking ventures. To some, cooking for one may seem like a major effort with few rewards. But eating is a source of enjoyment and provides needed nourishment to keep our bodies healthy. Sometimes eating alone is a desirable time for privacy and peace and quiet, but other times it can be a lonely experience. For senior adults, congregate meal programs are a great social outlet.