Coconut-Banana Oatmeal

Eating oatmeal for breakfast is one of my favorite things about waking up each morning (although Michael would disagree :P). To avoid getting bored with the stuff, I am always trying to come up with creative new combinations to maximize my oatmeal's flavor and nutrients. I just tried a new "coconut-banana" combination this morning, and it is absolutely delicious! Plus it's low in fat and void of any added/processed sugars - making it a healthy breakfast choice.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup dry oats (I use Full Circle Organic or Bob's Red Mill)
• 1/4-1/2 coconut milk, depending on how creamy you want it
• 2 ripe bananas, sliced into pieces 
• 2 squirts lemon juice
• 3 drops liquid stevia (optional)

Directions:

1. Cook oatmeal on stove-top according to instructions on your package. 
2. Transfer cooked oats to a bowl, and slowly pour coconut milk over the oatmeal. 
3. Add lemon juice and liquid stevia.
4. Stir to combine. 
5. Add sliced bananas. 
6. Enjoy!

Easy Veggie Breakfast Burrito

Sometimes you just really need a burrito - for breakfast! I make this easy burrito recipe if I am feeling especially hungry in the morning. Its packed with protein and delicious vegetables to keep you going until lunchtime. If you find yourself making this recipe a lot, try experimenting with different veggie combos to keep things interesting. This recipe is also makes a great egg scramble without the burrito if you are trying to watch your carbohydrates.

Serves: 1
Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 
• 3 cherry tomatoes, halved 
• 1/3 cup broccoli, chopped 
• 1/8 cup green peppers, chopped 
• 1/8 cup yellow onion, chopped 
• 1 small-medium sized burrito or sandwich wrap 
• 1/4 cup cheddar cheese 
• 2 tablespoons salsa (optional) 
• Salt & pepper to taste 
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Directions:

1. Sauté vegetables in a small frying pan using 1-2 tablespoons olive oil 
2. Sauté for about 4 minutes until just barely browned
3. Meanwhile, scramble (whisk together) 2 eggs in a small bowl
4. Pour egg mixture on top of vegetables 
5. After about 2 minutes, add cheese 
6. Let cook for about 5-6 minutes on medium heat, stirring continuously 
7. Once eggs are cooked through (be sure not to overcook them, or they will turn brown), transfer the egg mixture onto a warmed burrito or wrap
8. Add salsa, hot sauce, ketchup, sour cream, or other toppings
9. Wrap or fold burrito to hold in contents 
10. Enjoy! 

Strawberry Banana Lemon Ginger Smoothie

I just tried making this drink for breakfast this morning and I have to say - it is delicious! It is a tad bit sweet though, so I probably would label this as more of a dessert drink than a breakfast smoothie. But nonetheless, here's the recipe anyway:

Ingredients:

• 1 large banana, sliced
• 5-6 whole strawberries 
• 1/4 cup almond milk 
• 1 1/2 cups lemon ginger tea, steeped for 5+ minutes
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder (optional) 
• 1/4 cup old fashioned oats

Blend using a blender or a food processor until well mixed. It's okay if your blender doesn't completely grind up the oats all the way - it gives the smoothie a nice texture! If you would like to make the smoothie vegan, simply add more maple syrup in replace of the honey.