A staple in the great American college diet is undoubtedly the fried, freeze-dried, Styrofoam-like Ramen noodles everyone has drunkenly popped into the microwave after a rowdy karaoke night. These instant noodles come in a variety of flavors but seem to consistently taste like your older brother’s gym socks. Toss the spice packets over your shoulder, grab the spices your mother gave you freshman year and fire up the stove to defy all odds against the tasteless connotation associated with your twice a week, late night dinner.

Every time I go to the grocery store, I usually only need one ingredient. After I check out my grocery items and return home to cook, I realize I forgot that one item. It’s counterintuitive, but I’m sure half of you reading this are shaking your head ‘yes’ in agreement. (Almost) every

college student has at least one package of Ramen noodles. Whether they came in the care package your mother sent for Valentine’s Day or it is left over from the 100 boxes you bought when you were a freshman, Ramen is always available. If not, ask your upperclassmen friends. They will deny buying Ramen because of their newly found culinary expertise, microwaves, but will willingly fork over a couple of packs if you act particularly emaciated. Ramen noodles have yet another great purpose, besides being an unhealthy Japanese noodle.

Once when I was craving chips and salsa, I had a synaptic failure in the grocery store and walked out with chocolate and salsa. I admire creativity in the kitchen, but chocolate and salsa isn’t appealing to anyone. So, I began to peruse the Internet for chip substitutes when I found copious raves and reviews about “Ramen chips.” Bored and hungry, I decided to try this unlikely concoction. Honestly, it wasn’t the best thing I have ever tasted, but isn’t that what college is about — enjoying mediocre food simply because you made it yourself? Anyway, if you’re facing a situation similar to what I had, try out the Ramen chips.

Simply break up the noodles in the package, dip in salsa and munch.