Ramen. It’s the number one staple of a college diet, a stereotype of university life passed down through the generations. But let’s be honest, it’s really not the best. While cheap, the simple ramen packets are nutritionally devoid; not to mention that the flavorings accompanying the packets can range from okay to straight-up vomit. The typical ramen diet could use a makeover, and with only a little more money and time, can become immensely satisfying. Here are three ways to put some creativity and deliciousness into your Ramen.

Accessorize with condiments

Probably the easiest of the possible ways to figuratively and literally spice up a ramen dish is to use an assorted mix of condiments to create better-tasting and more complex meals. The classical choice is a plentiful helping of Sriracha sauce applied directly to the steaming noodles. While the straight up Sriracha option is a great idea, it pays to be even more creative by using less-known condiment options like Thai curry paste, fish sauce, miso paste, chili oil or sesame oil. These additions can create more appealing and infinitely tastier meals.

Add some green

Ramen is not healthy, but it can be made healthier-ish. Adding yummy green veggies to a ramen dish can not only add a dash of color and needed texture but nutrition and flavor as well. Greens such as kale, spinach, scallions and bean sprouts can all be added to ramen right after boiling. Not to mention that a bag of veggies—if kept airtight and in the fridge—can last a good while and get you more bang for your buck. Other veggies, such as carrots, broccoli and snap peas can also be added to ramen but must be cooked alongside the noodles as they boil. Combining the veggies with one or multiple of the aforementioned condiments can create not only creative and tasty dishes, but also slightly healthy meals.    

Go crazy with recipes

Now, fair warning, the following suggestion will not really follow along with the frugal nature of ramen, but instead will turn the simple dish into a powerful full-on meal. Fancy ramen restaurants are popping up all over the place, but why pay $13 for a dish you can make at home for relatively cheap? These dishes take the vegetable and condiment suggestions from above, turn them up to 10, and then add other miscellaneous food items to create delicious meals. The internet contains tons of lists dedicated to these ramen dishes, but here are two of the most mouthwatering versions:

Thai Peanut Chicken Soup

Combine veggies such as Crimini mushrooms, sweet potato and red peppers with peanut butter and chicken—yes peanut butter—I don’t know why but I trust it.

Kimchi Noodles

Combine ramen with fermented Kimchi, bean sprouts, white rice wine, olive oil, sesame oil, rice vinegar, smoked paprika, soy sauce (low sodium of course), red chili flakes, Himalayan sea salt and naturally a few sprinkles of Szechuan pepper flakes. Yeah, it’s not just your dorm room snack anymore.