Eat Well, Look Good...
Below are our articles on the subject of Eat Well, Look Good. If you can't see what you are looking for our other categories are displayed on the left under 'Our Quick Links'...
A Balanced and Healthy Diet
With just a couple of simple lifestyle changes you could be living a healthier lifestyle. You'll have more energy and should keep some of those bugs away....
A Healthy Mind in a Healthy Body
Some aspects of student life encourage habits which have a negative impact on health and energy levels. Check out these questions to find out if you are giving yourself the best chance of a life full ...
Baking and Roasting
There's an endless list of foods that can be baked or roasted in the oven and the flavours are really superb. As long as you've familiarised yourself with your oven, there should be no problem....
Baking Cakes
People don't bake as much as they used to, which is a real shame as nothing beats a slice of homemade cake or a still-warm cookie and a cup of tea....
Barbecue
Barbecuing is a laid-back way to entertain friends, as the cook doesn't have to be stuck in the kitchen all night. We've got some great tips to help you perfect the art....
Basic Cooking Terms
If you're new to cooking you might be a little hesitant about following a recipe and cooking a dish from scratch. Some of the terms might be confusing and if you don't know your 'slice' from your 'dic...
Beans and Pulses
Beans and pulses are a good source of protein and should be a staple for vegetarians. However, their sturdy flavours make then ideal for all manner of meat and vegetarian dishes....
Boiling and Steaming
Boiling and steaming are common ways to cook vegetables and fish. You'll probably use one of these techniques every day so why not learn a few helpful tips to make sure your food tastes great?...
Breakfast
Breakfast doesn't have to just be a piece of toast - why not make a proper meal of it with a hearty bowl of porridge or some scrambled eggs on toast?...
Breakfast on the Run
It's important to look after your health while you're at university and this means having a good, well-balanced diet. Start every day as you mean to continue, with a decent breakfast....
Brunch
Brunch is the perfect excuse for a lazy Saturday at home. It's all about picking the best bits about breakfast and lunch and eating them however you like. What more could you ask for on the morning af...
Buying Food That Will Last
Why waste money by choosing foods that will go off quickly. If you shop sensibly you can keep your cupboards stocked up with plenty of supplies that will last for weeks....
Change From a Fiver
Just because you’re a student doesn’t mean you can’t push the boat out when it comes to unusual or luxury ingredients. Not all of these cost as much as you might think and they’re worth every penny!...
Cheap Chilli
Chilli is cheap, filling and delicious and is the perfect dish for a student household. So, you can treat your housemates to a homemade dinner without breaking the bank....
Cheap Foods That Boost Your Brain Power
There's no easy way to gain a decent qualification and hard work will have to enter into the equation. However, there are a number of foods that will help your powers of concentration and keep you fit...
Cheese and Egg Main Meals
Cheese and eggs make great main courses for both vegetarians and meat-eaters. Not as expensive as meat, they're protein-rich, and can be used in loads of tasty recipes....
Cocktail Night
A few simple drinks and a glamorous dress code are all you need for a successful cocktail night. Try our recipes and top tips for a great celebration....
Cooking for Special Occasions
It's always nice to have a selection of party food to offer guests at a party. Keep it simple or get creative - there are plenty of ideas here....
Cooking in Bulk
Cooking in bulk saves both money and time so it should be popular with students! Just one afternoon in the kitchen could see you with enough meals for the next couple of weeks....
Cooking With Leftovers: When the Money Runs Out
The prospect of the food budget running out is enough to make flatmates groan. However, learning to make the most of leftovers could tide you over and help you handle things more economically in futu...
Dairy Products
While milk and cheese might seem like basic provisions but they can really transform a meal into something special and they are used in many different types of recipes. Here are a few ideas to get you...
Desserts
Everyone loves a bit of dessert after dinner so why not treat your guests? It doesn't have to be anything complicated or fancy - here are some quick and easy ideas for any occasion....
Dinner
If you've only managed to grab a sandwich on the run all day then you'll look forward to sitting down to a nice dinner. But don't worry; it doesn't have to be complicated!...
Dinner in 10 Minutes
Most people wouldn't believe they could cook a meal from scratch in 10 minutes or less. However, these quick recipe ideas prove that you can....
Dinner in 20 Minutes
20 minutes doesn’t sound like much time in which to prepare a meal from scratch. Read our ideas and you might be surprised at just what can be achieved in such a short space of time....
Dinner in 30 Minutes
30 minutes is plenty of time to create a delicious homemade dinner. As long as you’re organised, there’s nothing to it....
Easy Ways to Eat Five a Day
We are constantly being reminded that we should be eating five portions of fruit and vegetables every day but is this easier said than done? Follow our easy steps and it will become second nature....
Eating Indian
Instead of going out for a curry, stay in and enjoy a delicious home-cooked 3-course Indian meal, with sheek kebabs, saffron chicken mango cream....
Eating Italian
For an entertaining evening, invite friends to join you for an Italian evening. Our menu of delicious Italian food isn't expensive or difficult to prepare, so say, 'Ciao, bella.'...
Fish Pie
Fish pie is a delicious, warming dish that is perfect for entertaining friends. It takes a little time to prepare but this recipe is pretty easy to make....
Fondue Party
Take a trip back to the seventies and gather your friends round for a fondue party. It's a really sociable way to eat and there's not too much work for you, which is a bonus....
Food in a Hurry
It's difficult to eat healthily when you're on the go but there are plenty of snacks and light meals that will fill you up and help you steer clear of junk food....
Food on the Go
There are always going to be occasions when you have to eat on the go but that doesn't mean you have to resort to filling up on unhealthy snacks. There are plenty of other, healthier alternatives....
Food to Build Your Body Strength
If you already believe that 'you are what you eat', you are well on your way to adopting a healthy lifestyle that will pay dividends as you grow older. Find out here the importance of certain foods t...
Food to Keep
The fridge and freezer are your friends. Use them wisely and they'll repay you in times of empty cupboards and empty wallets....
Food to Make You Look Good
We know that eating well can help us strengthen our bodies and keep us healthy on the inside. But how many of us realise that the right foods can help us feel and look better on the outside too?...
Foods for Immunity
The old saying goes that prevention is better than a cure and that's certainly true of immunity-boosting foods. Don't wait for those winter bugs to arrive - scare them away with a natural medicine cab...
Foods to Avoid
We all know about the benefits of a healthy and well-balanced diet but it's not always that easy to stick to the rules. Here are some of the things you should try to limit....
Foolproof Lasagne
Lasagne is the ideal recipe to make when you're entertaining as most of the work can be done well in advance. Here's an easy recipe, plus a list of everything you'll need to prepare it....
Footie Food
The big match is a great excuse to invite your mates round for the evening. Get them to bring the beers and you can rustle up some of our quick and easy snacks....
Fruit
Fruit may well be eaten raw most of the time but there are also many ways to cook it and use it in recipes. Here are a few classic ideas....
Frying and Sauteing
A good pan is the key to successful frying and sautéing so if you’re keen on this cooking method, it’s worth investing in the right equipment. We’ve got some tips to help get you started....
General Food Preparation
Before you get all excited and arrange to cook a feast for your housemates, you need to get organised. There are lots of basic hints and tips for how to go about preparing your ingredients and meals s...
Getting to Know Your Fridge and Freezer
The fridge and freezer are essential to any kitchen and, although you might think you know how to use them, there are lots of quick tips for really getting the most out of them....
Grilling and Griddling
Grilling and griddling are two popular cooking techniques that can be used to prepare all kinds of vegetables, fish and meat. Invest in a griddle pan if you enjoy the delicious flavour of griddled foo...
Guide to African Cooking in Your Student House
We’ve a couple of well-known and easy African recipes that will feed a house of students. Moroccan lamb tagine is fruity and delicious and Bobotie is a South African meatloaf....
Healthy Alternatives to a Takeaway
Although a takeaway is a treat, there’s nothing quite like sitting down to enjoy a meal you’ve cooked yourself. So save the takeaways for emergencies and try these great homemade alternatives....
Herbs and Spices
Herbs and spices are essential for adding flavour and colour to food. They can transform a bland dish into something really special and you can even grow your own herbs for added satisfaction....
How Hot is Your Spice Knowledge?
Knowing about spices and how to use them properly will open up a whole world of recipes to you. Take our test of 20 questions to find out how hot your spice knowledge is....
How I Cooked for Myself at University: A Case Study
Preparing healthy food may seem like a waste of party time when students first arrive at college and university. But one Glasgow student found that, in moderation, he could have the best of both world...
How I Survived Without Mum's Food: A Case Study
The most frightening prospect of going to college or university is often not leaving home and family behind, but simply having to face looking after yourself. One teenager decided to take control of t...
How Much Things Actually Cost
If you shop carefully you should be able to get a lot more for your money. Certain things cost a lot more than you might think so you need to really compare prices and look out for special offers to s...
How Should We Freeze or Store Sauces?
It’s definitely a good idea to keep a couple of sauces on standby for those late nights. Different sauces need different treatment, so here’s a quick round-up....
How to be a Great Host
Dinner parties are a great way to spend time with your mates but you need to be organised. Choose something simple to cook and make sure it's a dish that you're confident preparing....
How to be a Healthy Vegetarian
Whilst everyone needs to be aware of trying to eat healthily, vegetarians need to pay particular attention to their diet as certain vitamins and minerals need to be obtained when you don't eat meat....
How to Cook Beef
Beef is the quintessential British meat that is popular for every kind of meal and occasion. From fillet steaks to Sunday roast dinner, it's a firm favourite with meat eaters....
How to Cook Eggs
Eggs are one of our most versatile foods and they're a great source of protein in the diet. With so many ways to cook them, they can be eaten for any meal....
How to Cook Fish
Fish is a healthy option and one that's very easy to cook. If you don't know much about fish, or haven't experimented with different varieties, hopefully this will inspire you!...
How to Cook Lamb
Lamb can be economical and it's a tasty addition to your diet. Enjoy it roasted, grilled or as a Shepherd's pie. Make friends with your local butcher and learn more about the best cuts....
How to Cook Pasta
You will probably get through a lot of pasta during your years as a student so it's a good idea to find out a bit more about this eternally popular meal solution....
How to Cook Pork
Many people enjoy eating sausages and bacon but there's so much more to pork. With chops, mince and loin to start you off, you should really get a taste for this delicious meat....
How to Cook Potatoes
For most people, the potato is their favourite vegetable as it can be eaten in a variety of ways with so many different meals. It is cheap, filling and pretty good for you so why not find out how to c...
How to Cook Poultry
Chicken stir-fry, turkey curry, Caesar salad… the list is endless. However, it's important that you're aware of the health issues before you start cooking. Follow our tips and all will be fine....
How to Cook Rice
Rice is cheap, filling and nutritious. It's also easy to cook and very versatile. Here, you can learn some top tips for cooking it properly so you don't end up with a sticky mess in the bottom of your...
How to Cook Shellfish
Shellfish might sound like it's beyond the cooking capabilities of most people but it's actually quick and easy to prepare and well worth buying for special occasions....
How to Cook Vegetables
Vegetables can be cooked in a number of different ways and this can really add to their flavour. Try roasting or steaming your veg for a change and you'll be converted....
How to Make Basic Sauces
A good sauce will add the finishing touch to a meal and these ideas should liven up everything from pasta to salads....
Impressive Cocktails For Your Student Nights In
You want some drinks that will impress your friends but without costing the earth. And we’ve got some impressive cocktails for you from Martinis to Sex in the City Cosmopolitans!...
Introducing The Kitchen
Many people arrive at university with little or no cooking experience. They’re thrown in at the deep end when they have to start making their own meals. Here, we introduce the concept of cooking for y...
Its a Wrap
Sandwiches don't need to be a last resort. You can get creative and make your lunchtime snack a real occasion. Experiment with different types of bread and fillings....
Kitchen Equipment - All The Basics You Need
You can get by with a minimum amount of utensils and equipment but it's important to look after them in order to get the best results. You don't need a celebrity chef's kitchen to create culinary mast...
Kitchen Hygiene
There are some basic hygiene tips that everyone should know before they begin cooking. Poor kitchen hygiene and incorrect food preparation can result in serious illness so it's best to be prepared....
Light Bites
You don't have to cook a big, fancy meal if you've invited your mates round for the evening. You can just prepare a couple of snacks, serve a few drinks and put the world to rights....
Lunch
People have very different ideas about what constitutes a lunch and there's nothing wrong with that. There's something for everyone here and it's all quick and easy to make....
Luxury Items
Just because you're a student doesn't mean you have to make do with the basic utensils. If you have access to some more unusual appliances or equipment then it's time to make use of them....
Make Your Own Flavourings
There is really no substitute for home-made sauces and flavourings and most are surprisingly easy and quick to make. So next time you want to liven up a run-of-the-mill meal, don't just reach for a b...
Making Bread
Nothing beats the smell of a freshly baked loaf coming out of the oven. If you've never tried making your own bread, why not give it a go with our quick and easy recipe?...
Making Risotto
Risotto is a great dish for a dinner party or a warming evening meal. It's quite labour intensive but doesn't take too long to cook so you won't be stuck in the kitchen all evening....
Making The Most of Your Microwave
Microwaves are ideal for busy students as you can have a piping hot meal in minutes. However, they do a lot more than simply reheat ready meals....
Mastering Spices in Your Cooking
If you want to produce really flavoursome meals it pays to learn how to use spices in your cooking. Find out here about the most-used spices and when to use what....
Meals for £1
It is possible to eat a nutritious, filling meal with just the small change from your pocket. You need to creative and careful with the ingredients you buy, but it just takes a little practise....
Meals for £2.50
You don’t have to be loaded to eat well, as this selection of delicious dishes demonstrates. With just a few more pence in your dinner budget, you can create a range of wonderful recipes....
Meals For £5
£5 is a significant amount to spend on a meal so you have loads of options and you can create something pretty special. We’ve got a few good ideas to get you started....
No-Cook Meals
Dinner doesn't necessarily mean switching the oven on - there are plenty of meals that can be created without the need to cook. Here are some ideas to get you started....
Nutritious Meals From Storecupboard Basics
If you've got a well-stocked store-cupboard you won't need to worry about having the makings of a delicious meal; they'll always be something delicious to eat....
Organic Food
While organic food might be a little more expensive than non-organic produce, it's worth spending a bit more on the things you particularly enjoy. Look out for special offers to stretch your budget....
Organising Your Kitchen
It's easy to get organised in the kitchen. There are plenty of clever storage devices on the market that are designed to help you keep clutter at bay and then it's just a case of working out what shou...
Party Food
Turn a simple gathering into a sophisticated soiree by adding a few carefully chosen party snacks. Here are some ideas for quick and easy nibbles that will impress your guests every time....
Pizza Night
The great thing about a pizza night is everyone can get involved. It’s quick and easy to prepare and you make toppings to suit different tastes....
Poaching
Although poached eggs are popular, this isn't really a well-known cooking technique. However, fish really benefits from being poached, as well. Follow our tips for some great meals....
Quick and Easy Soups
Soup is quick, easy and economical to cook. It can also be a healthy option and these deliciously simple recipe ideas will get you started....
Quick Pasta Sauces
Pasta is cheap, filling and really quick to make but why not liven up dinnertime by making your own pasta sauces? It won't take much longer and you'll appreciate the difference....
Revitalise Your Body in a Weekend
Hugely expensive weekend retreats where we can refresh mind and body, are out of reach of most of our budgets. But with a little effort and organisation you will be amazed how effectively you can rest...
Save Time and Money Cooking as a Student
Students out to save time and money could find the kitchen a good place to start. Putting handy tips to good use can free up resources and open up your eyes to other possibilities....
Shakes and Smoothies
A freshly made shake or smoothie can give you a real boost in the morning. As they're quick to prepare they're a good option for breakfast on the go, or a fast snack to keep you going in the afternoon...
Simple Summer Salads
Nothing quite sums up summer like a delicious salad. Whether it’s a simple green side salad or a more substantial main course, it will taste deliciously fresh and healthy....
Simple Winter Salads
Winter salads can be warming, filling and nutritious. Make the most of seasonal ingredients and serve as accompaniments to main meals, or as a lunch dish....
Snacks
Snacking is often seen as a bad word but not all snacks have to be unhealthy and full of sugar and fat. Choose carefully and you will be able to have a quick snack that should keep you going until you...
Starting a Food Kitty
Many shared households start up a food kitty but it's important to set up some ground rules and make sure everyone agrees before you begin. If successful, this can be a great way to shop and save mone...
Stir Fries
Stir-fries are quick, easy and healthy. You can use whatever meat and vegetables you like so they’re a really versatile option and great for using up odds and ends in the fridge....
Store-Cupboard Essentials
It can be difficult to know where to start when it comes to stocking a kitchen from scratch. There are, however, a number of essential ingredients that will see you through many meals....
Storing Food
While it may be fun dashing around the supermarket filling up your trolley, it's best to plan your shopping trip and arrange your food properly once you get home. A bit of organisation now will mean e...
Stretching Your Budget
Learning to stretch your budget is a skill. It's well worth the effort though, as you will then be able to eat well throughout the month with no fear of running out of money....
Student Cooking and Trying to Lose Weight
You don't have to survive on junk food just because you're a student - you can actually lose weight......
Student Teamwork in the Kitchen
Living, cooking and eating with other students in shared accommodation can be a real test for young people. Agreeing at the outset to work as a team in the kitchen, however, can be just what you need....
Sunday Roast
A Sunday Roast is a great excuse to gather family or friends together for a slap-up meal. It sounds a lot more difficult than it actually is, so use our guide for a stress-free meal....
Ten Ideas for Jacket Potatoes
Jacket potatoes are the ultimate in good, fast food. They're quick and easy to prepare and amazingly versatile - so many flavours work really well that it's a good opportunity to get creative....
The Etiquette of a Shared Kitchen
The kitchen can be the cause of arguments in a shared house but with just a few simple rules you can all get along famously. Shopping, cooking and eating together are some of best things about living ...
The Morning After - Fight the Hangover
If you have a big night out, you need to be prepared to accept the consequences the following day. Here are some ideas for eating your way through a hangover....
The Night Before
If you’re planning a big night out, it’s all too easy to get caught up in the excitement of picking your outfit. However, take the time to eat before you start drinking and you’ll be glad you did the ...
The Quick Guide to Great Cooking
When it comes down to it, some people love cooking and others see it as a necessity in order to eat. If you enjoy preparing food then you should naturally develop into a competent cook....
The Quick Guide to Kitchen Knives
Knives are an essential part of your kitchen equipment. You won't need a set of chef's standard knives but you should have a fairly decent selection for different types of food preparation....
The Savvy Shopper
Shopping for food should be an enjoyable experience, not a chore. So don't just stick to the corner shop or your local supermarket: try markets and specialist shops - you'll find bargains if you know ...
Using Other Kitchen Appliances
You should only keep appliances that you're going to use in your kitchen. Choose carefully and they will really help to make your life easier and you should get plenty of use out of them....
Using The Oven
Although ovens might not be the most exciting item for a novice cook, they're an essential bit of kit. Get to know yours and you'll have many a successful meal....
Vegetables and Salad
Salads and vegetables should play a large part in your daily diet. Try out some new cooking techniques and be adventurous when you go shopping....
What Foods Are Best for You?
The food that is best for your body is usually best for your brain, too. Good brain function and a healthy body are important at all times, and especially during your student years....
Where and How to Shop Cheaply
With a little planning and some local shopping know-how you can eat really well without breaking the bank. Make the most of farmers' markets and local traders....
Winter Fuel on a Shoestring
You won't need to break the bank to eat hearty meals in the winter: wholesome root vegetables and tasty pulses and beans will keep you going and keep your bank balance looking healthy....
Working Out a Food Budget
It's good practice to get into the routine of having a food budget. This way you know you'll be able to buy food right up until the end of the month and you can plan your meals accordingly....