Sharing the kitchen? Here are 5 easy recipes for your London Flats DFM practical stay.

Choosing a flat with its own kitchen, whether private or shared, is one of the best ways to experience London, because it means that you can save money! Staying in areas like Hackney, Seven Sisters, or Ladbroke Grove gives you a real feel for the neighborhood, and having a place to prep your own food means you aren't forced to eat out for every single meal.

At London Flats DFM, we want your stay to be as straightforward as possible. This guide is all about "low-effort" cooking: five recipes that are quick, tasty, and use basic ingredients you can find at any local Sainsbury’s, Tesco or at the supermarkets, right next your doors, if you're staying with us!! 

1. One-pan halloumi and veg   

Total Time: 15 Minutes If you’ve spent the whole day walking through the British Museum or exploring Camden Market, the last thing you want is a complex recipe. This "throw-it-all-on-a-tray" meal is the perfect solution.

Why it works for guests: Halloumi is a very popular cheese in the UK, and this recipe involves almost zero washing up.

Ingredients:

- 1 pack of Halloumi cheese (sliced)- 1 bag of Mediterranean roasting vegetables (pre-chopped from the supermarket)- A drizzle of olive oil- A bag of rocket (arugula) for a fresh base

Method:

1. Turn the oven to 200°C. 2. Spread the pre-chopped veg and halloumi slices on a baking tray. 3. Roast for about 12–15 minutes until the cheese is golden and the veg is soft. 4. Serve it directly over the fresh rocket.

2. The 10-minute "local favorite" pesto pasta

Total Time: 10 Minutes 

Pasta is a universal traveler favorite because it’s reliable and quick. This version focuses on using fresh ingredients so it doesn't feel like "basic" travel food.

Why it works for guests: It’s filling and uses ingredients you can find right next London Flats DFM properties doors! 

Ingredients:

- 150g Penne or Fusilli- 3 tablespoons of green pesto (the refrigerated kind is usually better)- A handful of cherry tomatoes (cut in half)- A small bag of pre-grated Parmesan or Grana Padano

Method:

1. Boil a pot of salted water and cook the pasta for about 10 minutes. 2. While that’s happening, slice your tomatoes. 3. Drain the pasta, put it back in the pot, and stir in the pesto and tomatoes while it’s still hot. 4. Top it with plenty of cheese and you're done.

3. The "easy morning" avocado and smoked salmon toast 

Total Time: 5 Minutes You don't need to queue for an hour at a busy cafe to get a great London brunch. You can make this in your flat in five minutes before you head out to catch the Tube.

Why it works for guests: It only requires a toaster, making it the easiest recipe on the list, and  you can find it in our properties. 

Ingredients:

- 2 slices of sourdough bread (look for the "bakery" section in the supermarket)- 1 ripe avocado- 1 pack of smoked Scottish salmon- A squeeze of lemon and some chili flakes

Method: - Toast the bread until it's nice and crunchy.- Mash the avocado directly onto the toast with a fork.- Layer the smoked salmon on top.- Add a bit of lemon and chili if you like a bit of heat.

4. The "quick-fix" stir-fry

Total Time: 8 Minute

If you’ve been eating out at pubs or grabbing fast food during your trip, you’ll probably want something fresh. This is the fastest way to get a meal on the table.

Why it works for guests: Most UK supermarkets sell "stir-fry meal deals" where you get a bag of veg, a sauce, and fresh noodles for a set price.

Ingredients:

-1 bag of pre-cut stir-fry vegetables.- 1 pack of “Straight-to-Wok" noodles (these don't need boiling). - A small sachet of stir-fry sauce. Optional: A pack of pre-cooked chicken or prawns.

Method:

1. Heat a tiny bit of oil in a pan on high heat.2. Add the veg (and meat/prawns if using) and cook for 3 minutes.3. Add the noodles and the sauce. Stir for another 2 minutes until it's all hot.4. That’s it - dinner is ready in under 10 minutes.

5. The “no-cook” deli board

Total Time: 5 Minutes 

It's time to try some british products!! It sounds obvious, but some people forget about this classical! Sometimes, the best meal is the one where you don't even have to turn on the stove. This is great for a late dinner when you just want to relax with a drink.

Why it works for guests: You can buy exactly what you want from the deli, that are located really close to our propertis, so you don't have leftovers to worry about when you check out.

Ingredients:

- A fresh baguette or some crackers- A couple of British cheeses (try a Cheddar or a Red Leicester)- A selection of cured meats like salami or ham- Some fresh grapes or an apple

Method: 1. Arrange everything on a plate or board.2. It’s a great way to try different local British products without any effort.

Tips for ssing a shared kitchen as a guest:

If the London Flats DFM property you are staying in has a shared kitchen, a few simple habits will make your stay much smoother:

The "one-bag" rule

Try to keep your groceries in one bag or a dedicated bin in the fridge. It makes it much easier to find your stuff and keeps the shared space organized for everyone else.

Choose your time

Kitchens are usually busiest between 7:00 PM and 8:30 PM. If you want a bit more peace while you cook, try to eat a little earlier or later. You’ll usually have the whole place to yourself.

The "clean as you go" habit

In a guest house or shared flat, the best thing you can do is wash and dry your dishes as soon as you finish using them. It keeps the counters clear and makes sure the next person has what they need.

Buy small, buy often

Don't do a huge grocery shop on your first day. Most London neighborhoods have small supermarkets every few blocks. Buying just what you need for the next day or two keeps the fridge clear and ensures you don't waste food when you leave. Utilize the deli section  London supermarkets have great prepared sections. Picking up some pre-marinated olives, roasted peppers, or sliced meats is a great way to add flavor to your plate with zero prep time or cleanup.

Final Thoughts

Staying in a London Flats DFM gives you a level of freedom you just can't get in a hotel. By using these quick recipes, you can save some money, eat a bit healthier, and spend more of your time enjoying the city.

We hope you have a great stay with London Flats DFM. Our goal is to make sure your time in London is comfortable and hassle-free.Now, tell us - what’s your go-to meal when you're traveling?