Reflecting on Your Semester Success and Mental Wellbeing Mindful Milestones
Fun and Refreshing Ways to Recharge During the Summer Celebrate Self Care
Fire Up The Flavor
Transforming Veggies into Barbeque Stars
The VeggieSummerShuffle
How to Mix and Match Veggies for Endless Delights
Cooking Delicious Meals with Limited Ingredients Emergency Eats
Doesn’t it feel incredible to be past the finish line, basking in the glow of the winner’s circle? As we dive into this month’s theme, let’s reflect on the incredible Luxeathon journey we’ve shared. It’s not just about crossing the finish line—it’s about growth, lessons learned, and triumphs achieved along the way.
This month, let’s maximize your winning season by embracing teachable moments and celebrating victories, big and small. Take time to reflect on your Luxeathon experience, refine your approach, and prepare for the next phase of life. Join us as we reflect, celebrate, and elevate towards the Luxe Life!
Summer is approaching and the fun days of family cook-out, graduation parties, and holiday barbecues are among us! Take this month to learn ways you can incorporate delicious grilled veggies in to your summer diet
Zucchini is low in calories and rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to your diet. Its high water content promotes hydration, while its antioxidants help reduce inflammation and support overall health.
Something Old, Something New challenges guests to get creative with ingredients in their fridge, transforming them into exciting and delicious dishes. Join us in the kitchen as we turn leftovers into culinary delights and reduce food waste one meal at a time.
Fostering a Supportive
Classes are over, projects have been submitted, and studying is done! You’ve run this far and endured so much, but now you’re at the finish line. It’s time to reflect, celebrate, and nurture your mental wellbeing. Reflecting on your successes and lessons helps you acknowledge your accomplishments and identify areas for improvement. Celebrating your academic success is essential, too, as it allows you to express gratitude for the hard work you have completed. Lastly, nurturing your mental health is just as important when celebrating successes. Doing this helps sustain a balanced life and provides numerous benefits to your well-being.
Reflecting and revisiting your challenges from the semester helps you better understand your goals, recognize which ones were achieved, and distinguish the goals that need assistance. With everything you learned about yourself, academics, and other variables, your next academic year should look different- perhaps more apparent. Now that you’ve learned from your challenges, it is time to tackle them again, but with a new approach. Additionally, reflecting on your past challenges could help shape your next goals and dreams, encouraging you to think deeper about what you truly want to achieve.
Celebrating your academic success is key when prioritizing your mental health. Remember, academic performance and success are marathons and not sprints. Recognizing your progress and all that it took to get there keeps you motivated and mentally healthy. Nurturing your mental health can look different for everyone; there isn’t a right or wrong way. The goal is to express gratitude for how far you’ve come while staying resilient and committed. Self-reflection and mental health go hand in hand. When expressing gratitude, ask yourself:
What went well this semester?
What class did you enjoy the most, and what did you learn?
What moment did you genuinely feel happy to be a student?
What instances made you smile or laugh?
The purpose of these questions is to help you grow and develop as a student and person. Prompting yourself with these questions increases your selfawareness, improves decision-making, and can help you manage stress and anxiety more effectively. Self-reflection questions are powerful tools for personal growth and mindfulness, making you intentional and more aware of your thoughts, feelings, and environment. Take time to ask yourself or journal intentional questions about your present time. Practicing mindfulness through these questions helps you understand, become more self-aware, and gain valuable insight, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling life.
Scorching hot days may feel never-ending and intense, making it impossible to recharge. This summer doesn’t have to feel that way. Practicing self-care is different for everyone and can be celebrated in many ways. Self-care is actions or practices taken to improve your physical, mental, social, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Some may attribute it to a specific gender or call it “luxury”; however, it is enjoyed by many: men, women, young or old. Taking the necessary steps to function at your best is essential to your well-being. Here are a few fun and refreshing ways to practice and celebrate it because self-care is a priority!
Taking vitamins, supplements, or any organic substance that is essential to your health can make a big difference in your self-care. Taking the necessary vitamins can reduce fatigue and support your immune system. This practice takes less than a minute and can be a step in the right direction. Always consult a medical professional to ensure you take the correct supplements for optimal well-being.
Cleaning or cleansing your area may not be the first thing you think of when self-caring, but it can be a way to clear your mind of things that no longer serve a purpose. Decluttering and removing toxins from the air and germs from surfaces can give you a sense of order and control over your space. Cleansing your space of “bad vibes” or harmful germs can make your space peaceful, allowing you to reduce stress and anxiety.
Starting your day with healthy, positive affirmations like “I Am,” “I deserve,” or “I embrace” sets healthy intentions for how you want to feel while also affirming that you are already there. Saying affirmations could also help you express gratitude about people or situations around you.
During the entire school year, you had to make tough decisions and choose between different options in your personal and academic life. Simplifying some things in your life can reduce decision fatigue and be powerful when caring for yourself. For example, develop “go-tos” or default choices when deciding on multiple options. For example, if you’re scrolling through your TV guide, looking for a show to relax with, and nothing is catching your attention, develop a list or option that you know you’ll always enjoy while being entertained. This eliminates the need to make decisions constantly.
Expressing yourself with creative outlets you enjoy could give you joy and the happiness you deserve. Creative outlets such as dancing, painting, do-it-yourself projects, or things that inspire you creatively can reduce stress, boost feelings of joy and confidence, and contribute to your self-care and mental health. Consider expressing yourself in the kitchen: try recipes from Forward Magazine and The Luxe Lab, or experiment with edible centerpieces. Expressing yourself allows you to relax and can nurture your creativity.
You completed the semester, earned good grades, and kept up with Luxeathon™. You should be incredibly proud, and you deserve to reward yourself for all your hard work, achievements, and lessons you learned. Treating yourself not only feels but also gives you a sense of accomplishment. It leaves you feeling empowered and ready to tackle future challenges, knowing a reward is coming. Consider enjoying your favorite meal or buying something you’ve been wanting. However you reward yourself, you should be proud because you earned it by putting in the work and through your efforts.
Self-care is a journey, not a destination. Prioritize it! Allow yourself grace and peace when going through life. Not everyone has it figured out. The key is to embrace the process and not strive for perfection. Rediscover what makes you happy and incorporate it into your self-care routine. Remember, self-care looks different for everyone and is not limited to one age or gender.
“And now that you don’t have to be perfect, you can be good.”
- John Steinbeck
Move over burgers; it’s veggie time! As we welcome warm sunny afternoons and fire up the grill, let’s not forget all the delicious flavors summer brings. While burgers, hotdogs, pasta salad, and baked beans are staple summer foods, grilled vegetables deserve some spotlight, too!
Campus Dining by Thompson Hospitality gives you six vegetables to grill, turning them into “barbeque stars.” With the right vegetables and seasonings, your cookout will be the season’s highlight.
Don’t be uncertain about grilling vegetables. Grilled vegetables are one of the easiest meals to make, and preparation and cooking take little to no time, leaving you to enjoy every flavorful bite. Start with basic vegetables like corn, broccoli, or sweet potatoes, and once you become confident, consider incorporating next-level, sturdy vegetables such as romaine lettuce, turnips, rutabagas, or cauliflower. Many vegetables are great for grilling, such as:
Bell Peppers, cook for a maximum of 8 minutes
Onion, cook for a maximum of 7 minutes
Zucchini, cook for a maximum of 5 minutes
Corn, cook for a maximum of 25 minutes
Portabella Mushrooms, cook for a maximum of 10 minutes Edamame, which should be cooked until lightly browned
Grilled veggies can be cooked on skewers or foil. Consider taking your grilled vegetables to the next level by incorporating them into meals, like salads, salsas, or buffalo dips. You can use any of your favorite seasoning and oil for additional flavor. Here are a few great combinations of seasoning:
Salt & Pepper Himalayan Pink salt, sea salt, and coarse black pepper are great seasonings. Remember to go light on the salt and add more as needed.
Everything Bagel Seasoning If you enjoy a seasoned everything bagel, then that seasoning on vegetables will take your taste buds to the next level
Balsamic Vinegar, Garlic Powder, Salt & Pepper Start with the seasoning, cook the vegetables, and then drizzle the balsamic vinegar.
Cumin, Salt & Pepper Add salt, pepper, and cumin to your vegetables if you’re looking for a slightly nutty flavor with hints of citrus and bitterness.
Lemon Juice, Salt & Pepper and Parmesan Lemon Parmesan vegetables are the ultimate introduction to summertime and a healthy solution. The crunch and flavor of the vegetables and the bold, tart taste of the lemon juice and cheese will surely be the talk of the day.
a greatsummer!
Stay tuned to join us for our upcoming events this fall!
Have you heard? Grilling vegetables is the modern way to add some pizzazz to your veggies, and the best part is any vegetable works! Grilled vegetables are quick and easy to make, making them the perfect summer side dish or even a delicious main course. Veggies can be grilled, oven-baked, or marinated in a tasty sauce. In addition, grilling vegetables has multiple health benefits, making it a nutritious meal.
Roasting vegetables at a high heat enhances their flavor and appearance and could be an option for meal prep. Vegetables’ natural sugars are caramelized, helping them release sugars and making them tastier while intensifying the flavor. In addition to taste, roasted vegetables can look earthier and slightly charred, giving them a luxurious, upscale look. Further, roasted vegetables can be prepped ahead of time and reheated, making them a delicious choice for leftovers.
1. Asparagus
2. Bok Choy
3. Butternut Squash
4. Broccoli
5. Brussels Sprouts
6. Carrots
7. Cauliflower
8. Green Beans
9. Mushrooms
10. Onions
11. Sweet Potatoes
12. Zucchini
There are many combinations of vegetables to roast, each with its unique health benefit, providing nutrients and vital components of overall health and well-being. According to Green Giant, a frozen and canned vegetable brand, in 2023, the brand surveyed 32 states, asking what their favorite vegetable is. The results concluded that corn, broccoli, and green beans were the top three favorites. Here’s a list of 12 veggies that can be roasted and a list of combo veggies that will take your taste buds to another level.
that perfectly complement each other, ensuring
Brussels Sprouts and Onions
Brussels Sprouts and Carrots
Butternut Squash, Cauliflower, Red Onions
Cauliflower, Carrots, Onions
Green Beans, Onions, Carrots
Sweet Potatoes and Butternut Squash
Embrace the vibrant world of vegetables by incorporating a variety of combinations into your meals. Whether you prefer oven-roasted vegetables, rich, caramelized flavors, the smoky char of grilled vegetables, or exploring new cooking techniques, discover the endless possibilities of these nutritional powerhouses. Remember, incorporating a variety of colorful vegetables into your diet isn’t just good for you; it’s a delicious adventure for your taste buds.
Zucchini is an all-year-round treat! This vegetable provides many health benefits and delicious tastes and is one of the most versatile vegetables. You can whip up zucchini in your residence halls and incorporate it into your meals in the dining hall. There are many ways to prepare it. You can find zucchini on Turntable almost every week, and our students, faculty, and visitors thoroughly enjoy it. But have you thought:
How would this taste with this or that?
Zucchini can be fried, sautéed, or even enjoyed raw because it has edible skin and small, soft seeds. It is also a good source of potassium and vitamins A and C. This versatile vegetable can replace potatoes or pasta. Its skin is lighter and delicate and holds a mild, slightly sweet flavor. Additionally, swapping potatoes or pasta provides a low-carb option. Cooked zucchini also adds a subtle taste without overpowering other ingredients.
Zucchini in salads can be a goldmine, transforming your salad into an even more delicious, impactful meal. Grilled or roasted zucchini works best for salads and can be chopped and tossed into your salad combination. Consider adding feta cheese and olive oil from Top That and Delightful for a refreshing and flavorful twist.
Did you get a chance to try our daily soup throughout the semester? Chicken noodles, tomato basil, and vegetable soup are great options for incorporating zucchini. The broth flavor from the chicken noodles and the mildly sweet taste from the zucchini provide bursts of flavor. The creaminess of the tomato basil soup and the sweet taste of the vegetables make it a comforting classic that’ll have you scraping the bowl for more.
A creative option for including the vegetable is making zucchini tuna boats. Tuna can be found at Top That, usually in the first row. This delicious, low-carb option is perfect for a light lunch or brunch meal. Consider topping the boats with cheese for a tuna melt-type taste. Jalapeños or red onions could also be considered when enhancing the flavor.
The microwave is every college student’s saving grace and can cook simple foods such as zucchini. This vegetable shines in the microwave, making it a quick, low-budget option. Slice the zucchini into thin-shaped noodles and drizzle with oil of choice, seasonings, or herbs; some ideas could be curry powder, salt & pepper, or Italian seasoning. Microwave for a maximum of three minutes, stirring halfway through. Top the pasta with leftover meats or canned tuna, and there you have it—a quick, healthy, delicious meal.
Baking zucchini in an air fryer or frying on a hot plate can be a delicious snack and can take the place of potato chips. This light snack is one of the best summer dishes but can be enjoyed in any season. Consider tossing the zucchini into a panko mixture and topping it with parmesan cheese. Crisp on the outside and tender in the middle will have you making this crunchy, salty snack every time you crave a potato chip.
Let’s face it: some leftover meals are great after a day of sitting in the fridge. The spices and juices from the meal have thoroughly combined, and the “second-day” taste of the meal could send your taste buds into a blissful heaven. Most college students live off leftovers, which can be handy when in a pinch or pressed for time. Microwaves, air fryers, and toaster ovens are some budget-friendly college students’ favorite things in their rooms. These appliances provide students with practical, efficient, and versatile solutions when preparing a meal.
According to Food Tank, the world’s fastest-growing non-profit community is working towards the positive transformation of how food is produced and consumed, and college campuses throw 22 million pounds of food away annually. So, making the most of your leftover meals is essential for convenience, reducing food waste, and becoming budget-friendly.
Leftover meals are convenient, easy, and quick to prepare. Academics, personal life, and other obligations may have you busy and on a tight schedule; eating that pasta from yesterday could be the furthest from your mind. However, repurposing leftovers into a new meal is meaningful and could accommodate you when there are little to no options. Chicken leftovers could be used for pasta. Fruits and vegetables past their prime can be used for smoothies or beads. Consider using a tasty sauce over your leftovers to revamp the flavor.
Most food wasted is healthy and safe to consume but gets discarded regardless due to various factors. You can help reduce waste by finishing or using your leftovers differently. Most college campuses have all-you-can-eat dining halls, unlimited meal swipes, and multiple oncampus restaurants. With so many options, it’s easy to think, “I’ll just throw this away and get something new tomorrow.” However, this mindset contributes to food waste and should be reconsidered when dealing with perfectly good food. Leftovers are a great way to reduce the amount of waste you produce. Consider freezing leftovers for later use. Instead of throwing away vegetable scraps, search for seeds or pits to regrow vegetables like celery, green onions, or Zucchini.
Eating leftovers allows students to budget their food expenses, making it an affordable and straightforward way to enjoy a meal or discover something new. Reusing leftovers could help you save money in the long run because it replaces a meal you plan to purchase. Also, leftovers might help you create a satisfying dish, so you can buy one and use it twice while keeping more money in your pocket to spend on other things. Depending on how often you eat, eating leftovers could save you up to $1,000 or more annually.
Don’t throw the leftovers away! In college, leftovers for students are game changers. They are budget-friendly, convenient, and help contribute to food waste. As a tip, storing leftovers properly is key for enjoying them the next day. Leftovers should be stored in air-tight containers and be refrigerated promptly. Stock up on some reusable containers this summer and embrace the deliciousness of leftovers.
Coming up with recipes with a few ingredients could seem challenging. But fret not; Campus Dining by Thompson Hospitality understands that eating at the dining hall or traveling across campus for your favorite meal can be impossible at certain times. In this article, we give you a few meals that you can make with limited ingredients that will satisfy your taste buds and take your belly fuel level from empty to full.
1.
Mac and Cheese is a cozy classic that can be made from scratch and is ready in less than an hour.
Ingredients
• 1/2 cup macaroni
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese
Optional Tips & Additions
Add cooked bacon bits, hot sauce, or steamed broccoli for extra flavor and nutrition.
2.
Instructions
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine macaroni and water.
2. Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes, stirring every minute, until the pasta is cooked
3. Add the milk and cheese, then microwave for another 30-60 seconds until the cheese is melted.
4. Stir well and enjoy!
Typically, quesadillas don’t take much to make and consist of 3 primary ingredients, including tortillas, cheese, and meat of your choice.
Ingredients
• One large flour tortilla
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
• Vegetables, cooked protein, beans
Optional Tips & Additions
Add pre-cooked protein, beans, or veggies.
Instructions
1. Place the tortilla on a microwavesafe plate.
2. Sprinkle cheese evenly over half of the tortilla.
3. Fold the tortilla in half over the cheese.
4. Microwave for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted.
5. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa or sauce of your choice.
The ingredients are in the name, and that’s all it takes!
Ingredients
• 1 cup of cooked rice
• 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 teaspoon of cumin
• Add salt and pepper to taste
Optional Tips & Additions
Instructions
1. In a pan, heat beans with cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix beans with cooked rice.
3. Top with optional ingredients if desired.
Salsa, avocado, and cheese add another layer of flavor when incorporated into the meal.
This simple meal is quick, easy, and delicious!
Ingredients
• 2 slices of bread
• 2 tablespoons of peanut butter
• 1 banana, sliced
• Optional: honey, cinnamon
Optional Tips & Additions
Instructions
1. Toast the bread.
2. Spread peanut butter on each slice.
3. Top with banana slices and optional ingredients.
Daniela-Gabrielle Smallwood, Vice President of Marketing and Programming
daniela.smallwood@thompsonhospitality.com (571) 446–7430
Stacey Gibson, Director of Retail Marketing
stacey.gibson@thompsonhospitality.com (571) 524–8566
Editorial Staff
Gina Godwin, Creative Director
Yolanda Waters, Chief Editor
Heaven Smallwood, Editor
Jacquii A. Tilley, Contributing Writer
Tess Mazzucchelli, Graphic Designer