This Oatmeal Banana Breakfast Bake is a wholesome and nutritious start to your day. Combining the natural sweetness of bananas with the tartness of cranberries and the richness of dried apricots and almond flakes, this bake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients to keep you energized throughout the morning.

Preparation Time:

• • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes

• Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients:

• • 1 cup oatmeal
  • 150 ml milk

• • 2 bananas, mashed
  • 2 eggs, beaten (be sure to wash your eggs before using them)
  • A pinch of vanillin

• • 50 g cranberries
  • 50 g dried apricots, chopped
  • 30 g almond flakes

• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Vegetable oil (for greasing)

Instructions:

Prepare the Oatmeal Mixture:

1. 1. In a bowl, combine the oatmeal and milk. Mix well and let stand for 10 minutes to allow the oats to absorb the milk and soften.

Combine Ingredients:

2. Mash the bananas and add them to the oatmeal mixture.
3. Add the beaten eggs, vanillin, cranberries, chopped dried apricots, almond flakes, and baking powder. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

Prepare the Baking Pan:

4. 4. Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F).

4. Line a baking pan with baking paper and grease it with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.

Bake the Mixture:

6. 6. Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
   7. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Serve:

8. Allow the breakfast bake to cool slightly before slicing.
9. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions:

• • Enjoy a slice of the breakfast bake with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey.

• Pair with a fresh fruit salad for a complete breakfast.

Cooking Tips:

• • Make sure to mix the oatmeal and milk well and let it stand to ensure the oats are adequately softened.
  • You can substitute dried apricots and cranberries with other dried fruits like raisins or dates if preferred.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • Oats: Provide a good source of fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you full longer.
  • Bananas: Rich in potassium and vitamins, making them a great addition to a healthy breakfast.
  • Almond flakes: Add healthy fats and a delightful crunch to the bake.

Dietary Information:

• • Vegetarian: Yes
  • Gluten-Free: Can be made with gluten-free oats
  • Nut-Free: Omit the almond flakes or substitute with sunflower seeds

Storage:

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat individual slices in the microwave for a quick and easy breakfast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This Oatmeal Banana Breakfast Bake is easy to make and perfect for meal prepping. It’s versatile, allowing you to customize with your favorite dried fruits and nuts. The combination of hearty oats and sweet bananas makes it both satisfying and delicious.

Conclusion:

Start your day off right with this delicious and nutritious Oatmeal Banana Breakfast Bake. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as a quick grab-and-go breakfast, it’s sure to become a staple in your morning routine.

These Cranberry Walnut Oatmeal Cookies with Lemon Zest cookies are a delightful and healthy treat, combining the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of dates and the crunch of walnuts. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these cookies are easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients. The hint of lemon peel adds a refreshing twist to the flavor.

Preparation Time

• • Prep Time: 10 Minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 Minutes

• Total Time: 40 Minutes

Ingredients

• • 1 cup oatmeal (90g)
  • 50g cranberries

• • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (30g)
  • 1/4 cup dates, chopped (35g)

• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted (30g)

Directions

1. 1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

1. 1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of oatmeal, 50g of cranberries, lemon zest, 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts, and 1/4 cup of chopped dates. Mix well.
   2. Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat 1 egg and add 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Mix until well combined.
   3. Combine Mixtures: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until thoroughly combined.

1. 1. Form Cookies: Scoop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, flattening each slightly with the back of a spoon.
   2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown and set.
   3. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

• • Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.
  • Serve as a healthy snack for kids.
  • Pair with yogurt for a nutritious breakfast.

Cooking Tips

• • Ensure the butter is fully melted for easy mixing.
  • Adjust the amount of lemon zest to your preference for more or less citrus flavor.
  • Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized cookies.

Nutritional Benefits

• • Oatmeal: High in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you full.
  • Cranberries: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins.
  • Walnuts: Provide healthy fats and protein.

• Dates: Natural sweetness and a good source of energy.

Dietary Information

• • Vegetarian: Contains no meat products.
  • Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free oatmeal if necessary.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, based on 12 cookies)

• • Calories: 100
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g

• • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Fiber: 2g

• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 20mg

Storage

• • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• freezing: Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• • Quick and easy to make with simple ingredients.
  • Nutritious and satisfying, perfect for any time of the day.

• Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite add-ins.

Conclusion

These oatmeal cookies are a perfect blend of flavors and textures, offering a healthy and delicious treat that you can enjoy anytime. Whether you need a quick snack or a wholesome dessert, these cookies are sure to satisfy your cravings while providing essential nutrients.

This Cheesy Oatmeal Scramble is a quick and nutritious meal that combines the creamy texture of oatmeal with the savory goodness of eggs and cheese. It’s a great option for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. The instant oatmeal provides a comforting base, while the eggs add protein, and the cheese brings in a rich, melty flavor. A dash of salt and black pepper enhances the taste, and the warm milk helps create a creamy consistency. This easy recipe is both filling and satisfying, giving you the perfect start to your day or a hearty meal anytime.

Preparation Time:

• • Prep Time: 5 minutes

• • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 2

Ingredients:

• • 1 cup instant oatmeal
  • 2 eggs

• • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 glass of warm milk

• 100 g cheese, grated (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
• Olive oil for cooking

Instructions:

1. 1. Prepare the Oatmeal:

      • In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of instant oatmeal with the warm milk. Cook according to the package instructions, typically simmering for 1-2 minutes until the oatmeal reaches a creamy consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Set aside once cooked.

2. Scramble the Eggs:

   • • In a separate pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
     • Crack the 2 eggs into a bowl, add salt and black pepper to taste, and whisk well.
   • Pour the beaten eggs into the heated pan. Scramble the eggs gently with a spatula, cooking until they are just set but still creamy.

3. Combine the Oatmeal and Eggs:

   • Once the eggs are cooked, add the prepared oatmeal into the pan with the eggs. Mix well to combine the eggs and oatmeal into a creamy, cohesive dish

4. Add the Cheese:

   • Sprinkle the grated cheese (100 g) over the oatmeal and egg mixture. Stir until the cheese is melted and incorporated, making the dish even richer and more flavorful.

5. Serve:

   • Serve the cheesy oatmeal scramble warm, garnished with extra pepper or herbs if desired. Enjoy as a hearty breakfast or a savory snack.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

• • Calories: 300-350
  • Protein: 16g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g

• • Fat: 18g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 400mg

The Origins and Popularity of Savory Oatmeal:

While oatmeal has traditionally been a sweet dish, the idea of making savory oatmeal is a growing trend that brings a unique twist to this classic breakfast food. The addition of ingredients like eggs, cheese, and milk turns oatmeal into a creamy, savory meal, making it more filling and satisfying. Savory oatmeal has roots in many different cultures, where oatmeal is often paired with hearty, savory flavors such as vegetables, cheese, or meat.

The popularity of savory oatmeal has surged, especially among those looking for a hearty and protein-packed breakfast or meal. Unlike traditional sweet oatmeal, which can sometimes be too sugary or light, savory oatmeal provides a more balanced and satisfying meal that can be customized with different cheeses, spices, and vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This Cheesy Oatmeal Scramble is the perfect blend of creamy oatmeal, fluffy eggs, and melty cheese, making it both comforting and filling. It’s a savory twist on your typical oatmeal that brings a rich, satisfying flavor without being too heavy. The combination of instant oatmeal and eggs makes it quick and easy to prepare, while the cheese gives it an indulgent touch. Whether you’re in a rush or have some time to enjoy a cozy meal, this recipe is perfect for all occasions.

Health Benefits of Cheesy Oatmeal Scramble:

This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits:

• • Oatmeal is a whole grain, providing fiber and complex carbohydrates, which promote digestion and keep you full for longer.
  • Eggs are a great source of protein, vitamin B12, and choline, which support brain function and muscle repair.

• Cheese adds calcium and protein, which help in bone health and muscle growth.
• The warm milk helps make the oatmeal creamy and provides calcium, vitamin D, and protein for additional nutrition.

This dish is a great way to get a balanced meal, combining carbs, protein, and healthy fats, all in one easy recipe.

Serving Suggestions:

This savory oatmeal scramble is delicious on its own but can also be paired with:

• • A side salad for added greens and a refreshing contrast to the richness of the eggs and cheese.

• • Sliced avocado on top for extra creaminess and a healthy fat boost.
  • Hot sauce or salsa for an added kick of spice.
  • Whole-grain toast or crispy bread for dipping.

Tips:

• • For a lighter version, you can use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese.
  • If you prefer a vegan option, substitute the eggs with scrambled tofu, and use plant-based milk and cheese.

• Add a handful of spinach, tomatoes, or mushrooms to increase the nutritional content and flavor.
• If you like your dish spicier, you can sprinkle in some chili flakes or black pepper for extra heat.

Variations to Try:

• • Spicy Cheesy Oatmeal Scramble: Add some jalapeños or chili powder to the mix for a spicy kick.
  • Vegetable Cheesy Oatmeal: Add cooked vegetables like spinach, peppers, or mushrooms for a healthier, more flavorful scramble.
  • Bacon or Sausage Cheesy Oatmeal: For added protein and flavor, try adding crispy bacon or sausage to the dish.