Oatmeal Season is Here
When my son asked me how to make oatmeal last week, I was a little surprised. Surprised, and super happy to tell him my recipe. OK, measure out the oats, add the water, and add a big handful of frozen blueberries. Then, mix it up and microwave for 5-1/2 minutes at half power. Done. He added a spoonful of brown sugar to sweeten up my recipe, but I was OK with that. The blueberries – which we grow ourselves and freeze during July – were the good nutrition magnet for him. For you, it might be the banana, the cut-up apples, the raisins, or the pumpkin seeds You get it. We all love making it ‘our way.’
Quick Tips for Oatmeal Season Mix-Ins & Toppings
Tip: For parents out there, suggest several healthy mix-ins, then let your kid(s) choose:
- Fruit gives flavor, texture and color: Berries, cut up apples, dried raisins or blueberries or craisins, banana, cut up plums or pears, cut up cantaloupe or watermelon, canned-in-juice fruit cocktail or diced peaches
- Nuts add flavor, crunch, protein and fiber: Almonds, walnuts, peanuts, hazelnuts, pecans, or mixed up nuts
- Seeds contribute crunch, a little protein and healthy fat: Pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, chia seeds
- Nut & seed butter brings on flavor, creaminess, protein and fiber: Peanut butter, sunflower butter (for peanut allergic kids), soy nut butter, cashew butter
- Granola or colorful sprinkles add pure fun: Kids love to sprinkle, so give them a teaspoon to measure their favorite kind. Check out my recipe for easy, tasty oat granola here.
Embrace Oatmeal Season for Better Nutrition
Oats are a whole grain with great nutrient richness. Also, they are delicious, filling and fun with mix-ins and/or toppings. Now that the weather is cooling down, oatmeal belongs in everyone’s bowl for a warm start to the morning. If you’re ready to put healthier eating habits into place, be sure to sign up for my 3 tasty menus for busy people as well as to like and visit my facebook page at Market Basket Nutrition!