Oatmeal Galore!

One of my favorite breakfasts is oatmeal - especially in the morning during the week, and even more in the winter. It's cheap, it's healthy, and it's quick - no more than 5 or 6 minutes to prepare, toppings included. The photo above is maple syrup (the real stuff!), brown sugar, and walnuts, but there are a million different combinations I like to make. Check out below for my oatmeal base and some other suggestions for toppings...

Basic Oatmeal

makes one giant serving of plain, unflavored oatmeal

Ingredients:

1/2 cup water

1/2 cup milk or milk substitute (I use plain soy)

1/2 cup quick-cooking oats

a dash of salt*

Directions:

Add all three ingredients to a small saucepan on low heat. Follow instructions on oatmeal for cooking times. I like to over-cook mine a little bit so it's super creamy. 

For creamier oatmeal, use all milk! For lower fat, use all water. Liquid amounts can be adjusted for your own textural preferences...

Here are some of my favorite "flavors" of homemade oatmeal:

Carrot Cake Oatmeal

Add 1/4 cup grated carrots to oatmeal/water/milk mix before cooking.

After cooking add walnuts, shredded unsweetened coconut, a touch of maple syrup, and raisins. Top with greek yogurt mixed with a bit of maple syrup for mock cream cheese frosting.

Cookie Dough Oatmeal

After cooking base add a touch of vanilla, brown sugar, a pat of butter, chocolate chips.

Peanut Butter & Jelly Oatmeal

Add a spoonful of peanut butter (or maple almond butter - the best!) and your favorite jelly or jam.

and now for my favorite...

Maple, Brown Sugar, and Walnut

After cooking base add brown sugar and walnuts - top with real maple syrup and enjoy!

* Definitely don't forget the salt! This adds balance to the sweetness of the toppings and makes the oatmeal extra delicious!