Your mornings are busy, and you want to start them off right. Breakfast may not be your top priority as you’re getting ready to start your day, but there are ways to make it fast and easy. We’ll cover our 5 favorite breakfast ideas to fuel up.
The Importance of a Good Breakfast
We’ve all heard that breakfast is “the most important meal of the day.” But how true is this? Studies show that eating nutritious food in the morning is a great way to start your morning. Think of your body like a car that needs fuel to run. You wouldn’t start your morning commute on an empty tank! Breakfast works the same way, providing your body with needed energy.
Your brain needs glucose (sugar) to function properly. Eating breakfast in the mornings has been shown to improve focus. Researchers have found that kids who eat breakfast pay more attention in school and score better on tests.
Experts also state that your body is most sensitive to insulin in the mornings. Your cells use this hormone to take sugar from your blood and use it for energy. For a boost of energy with a heart-healthy kick, choose carbs packed with fiber — like oatmeal and fruits. This helps lower your risk of diabetes and improves your heart health.
Our Favorite Breakfast Recipes
We’ve compiled 5 of our favorite fast and easy breakfast recipes for you to try.
1. Overnight Oats
Do you like oatmeal but don’t want to cook it in the mornings? Try overnight oats! This recipe is put together the night before and sits in the fridge, making an easy grab-and-go breakfast the next day. Overnight oats are jam-packed with fiber and protein, and the good news: they’re completely customizable. We’ve provided a basic recipe and topping ideas for you to mix and match in your favorite flavor combinations.
- ½ c old-fashioned rolled oats
- ½ c milk of your choice
- ¼ c plain Greek yogurt or more milk
- 1-2 tsp of sweetened liquid, like honey, maple syrup, or agave
- 1 tsp chia seeds, optional
- ½ tsp vanilla extract, optional
- Pinch of sea salt
Mix ingredients in a jar and seal. Place in your fridge overnight and enjoy the next morning!
Toppings can include fresh diced fruits, chopped nuts, nut butter, chocolate chips, and seeds.
2. Fruit Smoothie
Smoothies are chock full of nutrients, fiber, and natural sugars. Like overnight oats, these delicious drinks are completely customizable. Add in Greek yogurt and milk for an extra protein kick or a handful of spinach for extra vitamins.
Here’s our favorite basic smoothie recipe:
- 1 c frozen fruit
- 1 banana, peeled and sliced
- ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp oatmeal
- 1 tbsp nut butter of your choice
- 1-2 tsp honey or other sweetener
- Water or milk as needed
Blend the ingredients until smooth. If too thin, add a few ice cubes; if too thick, add milk or water to thin it out. Put in a to-go cup and enjoy!
3. Quick Breakfast Sandwich
Love a warm, savory breakfast, but don’t feel like you have enough time? We’ve got a breakfast sandwich recipe that can be put together in less than 10 minutes.
Skip the drive-thru and try this recipe:
- 1 egg
- 1 bagel, English muffin, or croissant, sliced in half
- 1 slice of your favorite cheese
- Butter or cream cheese, optional
- 1 frozen sausage patty or 1-2 slices of microwavable bacon, optional
- Olive oil or cooking spray
Heat up a frying pan over medium-high heat and lightly grease with olive oil or cooking spray. Crack the egg into the pan and fry until it is cooked as desired. While the egg is cooking, begin toasting your bread of choice and microwave your sausage or bacon, if desired. Once the egg is cooked, place a slice of cheese on top and let melt. Add butter or cream cheese to your bread, and place egg, cheese, and meat on top. Wrap in aluminum foil and enjoy on the road or in the office.
4. Avocado Toast
Breakfast can be as easy as making toast! Make your own quick and easy avocado toast at home while saving some extra money. Toast your bread and smash half an avocado in a bowl with a fork. Spread on the toast and add your favorite toppings — like tomatoes, bacon, feta cheese, greens, or a fried egg. A splash of balsamic vinegar, hot sauce, or even just some salt and pepper gives your avocado a boost of flavor.
5. Peanut Butter Toast with Fruit
Pop a piece of your favorite bread in the toaster and toast until golden. Top with your favorite nut butter, like peanut butter, and slices of apple or banana. Add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of chocolate chips for a sweet treat. This one nut butter toast meal provides whole grains, protein, healthy fats, and fruit.
