Whoever says that breakfast is served on a plate, or mugs are made for hot chocolate and coffee is in for a treat with the emergence of a new use for everyday mugs. Tradition goes right out the window when it comes to mug bakes, energii mugs and the Greek lover’s mug dream.

Luckily, all of these fancy cup recipes can be prepared right here at the North Dakota State dining centers.

A traditional breakfast usually consists of eggs, some sausage and cheese. The mug bake will combine all of these foods into one with its unique method of preparation. You can fill a mug with typical egg bake ingredients such as ham, cheese, green peppers, mushrooms and sausage. After 3-4 minutes in the microwave, you will have an egg bake in a mug.

Since the dining center mugs are small, they are great for making snacks or sides for any meal. You could prepare the typical side salad in a cup, but to make things a bit more interesting, try a Greek-themed side dish. The main portion of the salad consists of warm quinoa mixed with a dash of olive oil.

When microwaved for a few minutes the quinoa flakes will actually condense and pick up a rich texture, which makes a perfect base for a Greek salad. Mix in some other Mediterranean essentials such as tomatoes, olives and peppers and top with some feta cheese. The results are pleasing to both the eyes and the taste buds.

For a more filling option, mimic the recipe of energii balls, which are a healthy version of cake balls that have recently started circling Pinterest. The energii mug will please peanut butter lovers, as it is the ingredient that holds the recipe together.

The dish allows for plenty of freedom since it is really just a mix of your favorite nuts and seeds, much like a trail mix. In the mug pictured above, allergy free sun butter holds together sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, craisins, granola, dried oatmeal and a smidge of Greek yogurt. The consistency is similar to cookie dough, but without the same guilt after having a few spoonfuls.

With meals in mugs, the possibilities are endless and the portion sizes are perfect for a delicious and nutritious meal.