The expectation for college students is to eat whatever you can, whenever you can, as long as it's cheap. But I didn't. I started meal planning sophomore year. Sundays were spent seeking out deals in the local ads, creating a meal plan and shopping list, grocery shopping, and finally, preparing food for the week. Meal planning may seem like a hassle, but it actually comes with a lot of benefits.

Grain bowls are one of my favorite meals. A perfect balance of carbs, fats, and protein, they're the best way to get a lot of flavor and nutrients in one dish. Plus, they're hearty and filling. There's nothing better on a cool spring day.

So what are we waiting for? Let's build a bowl!