Making Your Oatmeal Taste Better

One of the easiest and most nutrition breakfast or snack foods is oatmeal. Sadly, it is also one that most people shun because of its bland taste. With the multitude of cold cereals out there lining the breakfast aisle in the supermarket it is not really all that surprising. The problem is that most of those breakfast cereals are devoid of nutrients, high in sugar and calories and won't keep you satisfied as the morning wears on. Oatmeal however has lots of fiber, an important nutrient that keeps you feeling full as well as keeps your digestive system healthy, is low in added sugar (provided you are getting the plain variety), and is full of slow-digesting complex carbohydrates. It is a much more well-rounded choice when it comes to fuelling your body in the morning.

But what can you do with oatmeal? Plenty.

Below are some great recipes to make this simple grain tastier. Note that if you prefer thinner oatmeal, use more water while if you prefer thicker oatmeal, you will use less. The general rule is to use twice as much water as there are oats. To make each recipe sweeter, you can also add a sugar alternative such as Splenda, or add a little bit of brown sugar. Note however that it is a good idea to limit the amount of added sugar as this will cause a spike in blood sugar levels and greatly increase the calorie content of the dish.

Cinnamon-Swirl

Add enough cinnamon to suit taste to dry oats and then add water and sweetener. Microwave until cooked, stirring once at halfway point. After finished, drizzle on a small amount of fat free vanilla coffee creamer (acts as the 'icing') and serve.

Protein Packed Oatmeal

This is a great dish when you want a complete meal in one. It will provide you with protein, carbohydrates and some healthy fats and can be made in a matter of minutes.

Cook oatmeal as per the directions on the package using slightly more water than you normally do. After cooking let sit for 1-2 minutes to cool and thicken slightly. Next stir in one scoop of protein powder (chocolate or vanilla flavour works well) and then 1 tbsp of peanut butter. Sprinkle with some chopped peanuts for added crunchiness.

Baked Apple Bowl

This method is best made using the stovetop cooking directions however can be made using the microwave if you are in a time crunch. Chop one apple into small pieces. Add to dry oats and water and then cook on the burner. Once oatmeal has cooked, stir in a small amount of cinnamon and sweetener and then cover. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until apple pieces are nice and tender. Serve with milk over top.

Maple Oatmeal

Before microwaving oatmeal, add in some maple extract to the water. After cooking, drizzle 1-2 tbsp sugar free maple syrup along with sweetener. Splash some milk over top and stir. Serve.

So next time you are looking for a better solution to your morning meal, or are just looking for a warm comforting snack after a long afternoon, give oatmeal a try. Not only will you be doing your body a favour, but you might just be surprised at just how great it can taste.