Oatmeal Recipe
For years we have heard how good oatmeal is for us! But let’s be honest- it’s not that exciting. Even if you find a way you like your oatmeal, chances are you get tired of that variation too. Oatmeal is really so versatile, and is considered to be a great breakfast for a reason. Oatmeal alone has complex carbs, protein, and iron- plus other vitamins and minerals. Cooked in milk it has even more protein. With added fruit- even more fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Do you need any more convincing?
You can prep individual servings of oatmeal at the beginning of the week in zip top bags to make a quick and healthy breakfast in the morning. You can include some add-ins in the oatmeal, or store them separately and add them once it is cooked; for example- some fruit you may want to add after cooking. You can even prep these and bring them to work if you have the space available and a place to heat them.
I use quick oats, because well it’s quick and I can do it in the microwave without dirtying a pot. There are some people that swear up and down you shouldn’t use quick oats because they don’t have as much nutritional value. If you compare labels of quick oats and say steal cut oats- there really isn’t much difference, slightly less fiber. Quick cooking is well worth the exchange to me.
There are so many things that can be added to your oats to enhance nutritional value, and flavor. I like to use fruit as a way to sweeten typically. Mashed banana is great; my sister-in-law introduced me to it a few years ago- it’s genius. Here are some mix-ins that I like to use.
Toasted nuts: walnuts, pecans, almonds
Fruit: Banana, frozen blueberries, apples, pumpkin puree, mango
Spices: cinnamon, pumpkin spice-spice mix, vanilla
Powdered Peanut Butter
Dairy: milk or flavored yogurts
Semi-sweet mini chocolate chips
Pictured are some that I like to enjoy!
Cookie Oatmeal:
Quick oats cooked in milk with some vanilla extract, topped with semi-sweet mini chocolate chips and toasted pecans.
Blueberry Banana Oatmeal:
Quick oats cooked in milk. Banana mashed into oats, and topped with frozen blueberries that are defrosted slightly in the microwave.
Peanut Butter and Apple Oatmeal:
Quick oats + a little powdered peanut butter + diced apple cooked in milk.
Pumpkin Oatmeal:
Quick oats + pumpkin puree + pumpkin spice-spice mix + a tiny bit of sugar cooked in milk.
Do you have any delicious combinations to share? Leave a comment!
