Simple But Mighty Oatmeal

There’s nothing like a warm simple oatmeal to start the day …and the toppings are endless! You can make this simple recipe into one of the healthiest and mightiest ways to start your day!

Ingredients

• ½ cup uncooked org rolled oats

• 1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk or water

• Pinch of salt

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon ( optional)

• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

  My favorite toppings to choose from :

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 1/4 cup berries, 2 tablespoons of sliced roasted almonds, 1/2 teaspoon of nut butter, 1/2 chopped apple, sprinkle of cinnamon, banana slices, 1/4 teaspoon of chia seeds, 1 teaspoon goji berries, 1 tablespoon of dried cranberries, 1 tablespoon of roasted pumpkin seeds.

Instructions

1. Add all ingredients in a pot or saucepan over medium heat

2. Bring to a boil then reduce to a low simmer for about 5-7 minutes

3. Oatmeal is done when most of the liquid is absorbed.

4. Transfer to bowl and add on your favorite toppings

5. Enjoy

Lisa’s Berry Blast Smoothie

In a world where fast food often prevails, I believe in the power of nourishing our bodies with wholesome ingredients. That's why I've concocted this delicious blend packed with goodness to keep your health, heart, mind, and body happy and your taste buds dancing! This is also in my daily rotation!

Lisa’s Berry Blast Smoothie

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 lg frozen ripe banana

• 1 plus cup frozen mixed (or single) organic berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, pomegranate etc)

• 1/2 cup plain Greek low fat yogurt or plant based or 1 tbsp of nut butter ( all optional)

• 1 Brazil nut

• 1 tablespoon chia seeds, ground flax meal, or hemp hearts ( or a mix of all)

• 1 scoop of protein powder

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (more to desired thickness)

• Ice cubes (optional, if using fresh berries)

• Sliced almonds and goji berries for topping

Instructions:

1. Preparation: I prefer my fruit frozen for smoothies, thick and cold. They are more of a meal when the right ingredients are added. If you're using fresh berries, wash them thoroughly. Peel the banana and break it into smaller chunks.

2. Blend: In a blender, combine all the ingredients: mixed berries, banana, Brazil nut, chia seeds, flaxseeds, or hemp hearts, protein powder ( nut butter) and almond milk.

3. Blend Until Smooth: Blend on high speed ( you may have to use your tamper as the thicker it is the longer it will take to blend) until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

4. Serve: Pour the smoothie into chilled glasses ( I keep a reserve in the freezer) and serve immediately. Top with a few whole frozen or fresh berries , almond slices, goji berries, granola etc. Delish!

Quick "Out The Door" Breakfast Options

Here are some options for when you're having one of those days where you need something to grab and go!

• One piece of whole grain/sprouted grain or gluten free toast with 1/2 mashed avocado and sprinkle of chia/sesame seeds, or red chili flakes.
•  Organic brown rice cake with nut butter (and banana)
•  Low sugar non-dairy yogurt (coconut/ almond) with berries and nuts/seeds mixed in.
•  Banana (celery, carrot) with smear of nut butter.
•  A wrap with sliced avocado, tomatoes, onions and sprouts and a side fresh greens. You can also put some tofu scramble in your wrap (or lettuce cup)
•  Cooked Sweet Potato w/ avocado or almond/ peanut butter 
•  A green juice or a smoothie ( 90% veg/ 10% fruit)  in a “to-go ” thermos.
• In a glass jar with a lid place 1/2 cup of raw quick oats w/ 3/4 cup of almond milk, touch of maple syrup, fresh berries, a few nuts ( or a tsp of nut butter) and cover with lid.  On the go soaked oats!