Ask AI: Generate a meal plan for a university student on a budget living in Canada

Sure, I understand that budgeting is a substantial aspect for university students. Here's a simple, affordable, yet nutritious meal plan with commonly available ingredients in Canada. **Day 1:** - **Breakfast:** Overnight oats (made with oats, milk/yogurt, a bit of honey/sweetener, and fruits you enjoy). - **Lunch:** Grilled cheese sandwich with some carrot and celery sticks or any preferred fruit. - **Dinner:** A one-pot pasta meal - here canned tomatoes, garlic, spices, and pasta are all you need. Add vegetables like bell pepper and spinach for added nutrients. **Day 2:** - **Breakfast:** Scrambled eggs on a piece of whole grain toast. Add sliced avocado for extra nutrition and it's very filling. - **Lunch:** A simple salad with greens, canned beans, cucumber, tomatoes, and any dressing you enjoy. - **Dinner:** Stir-fried rice (add a mix of frozen veggies, soy sauce, egg, and any leftover protein such as chicken or tofu). **Day 3:** - **Breakfast:** Banana smoothie (bananas, any kind of milk, oats and a tablespoon of peanut butter). - **Lunch:** Tuna salad sandwich (Tuna is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids). - **Dinner:** Baked chicken breasts/thighs with root veggies (like potatoes, carrots) on the side. **Day 4:** - **Breakfast:** Greek yogurt with fruit and a drizzle of honey. - **Lunch:** Peanut butter and jam sandwich with a few pieces of fruit. - **Dinner:** Spaghetti Bolognese made with ground turkey (it's usually cheaper than beef). **Day 5:** - **Breakfast:** Whole grain cereal with milk or yogurt. - **Lunch:** Leftover spaghetti from the previous dinner. - **Dinner:** Bean and cheese burritos. **Day 6:** - **Breakfast:** A hard-boiled egg and a piece of fruit. - **Lunch:** Lentil soup (very filling, high in protein and fibre). - **Dinner:** Homemade pizza using store-bought dough, canned tomato sauce, cheese, and any preferred topping. **Day 7:** - **Breakfast:** Pancakes made from a mix, with some fresh fruit. - **Lunch:** Make your own sandwich wrap with sliced turkey (or another protein), lettuce, and cheese. Have an apple on the side. - **Dinner:** Sausages with mashed potatoes and tinned vegetables. Snacks throughout the day could include fruit, homemade popcorn, yogurt, or a small handful of nuts. Remember, drinking plenty of water is also essential. Also, buying in bulk, using seasonal produce, and taking advantage of sales can help save a lot of money.