As a college student always on the go, I find myself continually pressed for time to make food – this holds especially true for breakfast. I try to eat semi-healthy meals, so oatmeal quickly became my go-to choice for a quick, nutritious breakfast. However, after just the first few days, I truthfully wanted to vomit – I was already tired of the bland, uninspiring taste. Thankfully, after receiving inspiration from my roommates and an unusual dose of creativity, I decided to add new ingredients to my oatmeal to spice it up. I now cannot get enough of this delicious breakfast cuisine because I have discovered that there are literally endless possibilities of what you can add to it. Here are some of my favorites:
1. Peanut butter
source: http://peanutbutterlovers.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/pb_hero.jpg
Peanut butter adds not only flavor, but protein as well, which is a must for all of us. I typically add this to my oatmeal every time because it serves as the best base ingredient when adding other ingredients.
2. Fruit
Literally any fruit is an awesome addition. Some of my favorites include: raspberries, bananas, apples and blueberries. I would suggest that you use fresh fruits, unless you want to add something like raisins or dried cranberries.
3. Nuts
source: http://www.naturalhealth365.com/images/tree-nuts.jpg
Almonds and walnuts are some of the more popular choices, but any kind will work!
4. Apple butter
As a kid, peanut butter and apple butter sandwiches were my favorite (let’s be real: they still are), so it was only natural for me to try it out with my oatmeal and now I can’t get enough!
5. Cinnamon
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This is the perfect spice to add to oatmeal because it provides just enough of a kick. Small doses definitely are the way to go, because it can easily overpower the rest of the dish (Trust me, I know).
7. Ground Flax Seed
While flax seed doesn’t necessarily add any special flavor, I always throw in some as a way to get essential omega-3 oils and fiber.
6. Cocoa Powder
source: http://eatingbirdfood.files.wordpress.com/2009/07/cacao-powder.jpg
Cocoa powder is another great ingredient to add because you can combine it with almost anything. Also, let’s be real. This is just another great way to incorporate chocolate into every meal.
This list in no way comes close to covering all of the great (and healthy!) things you could add to your oatmeal. You could add just one of these ingredients, or combine a few of them. I also encourage you to get creative and think of new things to try out as well!