It can be a challenge to feed the kids healthfully and get out the door in time for school. The old saying of eating breakfast like a King, lunch like merchant and dine like a pauper is somehow reversed when it comes to school days. Here are some very easy to make breakfast recipes to have on the go and still nourish the brain.
Dressed-up Yogurt
This is a quick way to add sweetness and crunch to plain yogurt. You’ll get the nutritious benefits of yogurt without the excess sugar so often found in flavored yogurts. You can make your own yogurt by buying a yogurt maker in taobao (chinese) then sourcing the live cultures in a non-flavored yogurt or a health store.
What you need:
- 7 oz container plain yogurt (recommended Greek yogurt)
- 1 Tbsp. raspberry jam (or any other favorite)
- 1 tsp. honey
- 2 Tbsp. toasted almonds, roughly chopped
Combine all ingredients in the yogurt container.
Grab a spoon and go!
Extra: Any jam or nut combination can be added. Pair strawberry jam with pistachios for a colorful alternative.
Kicked-Up Quesadilla
These healthy quesadillas get a bright, fresh kick from the addition of tangy Granny Smith apples. Prepped and ready in less than 5 minutes, it’s the perfect meal to munch as you head out to the car.
What you need:
- 2 flour tortillas (regular or whole-wheat)
- 1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar several
- Thin slices of an apple
1. Sprinkle an even layer of cheese over one tortilla.
2. Scatter the apple slices on top of the cheese and top with the remaining tortilla. Microwave for 30 seconds or until the cheese melts.
3. For a crisper tortilla, use a large skillet and crisp for 1-2 minutes on both sides, until the cheese is melted.
4. Cut into 6-8 wedges.
Breakfast Pizza Margherita
Now you can let the kids have pizza for breakfast with this healthy English muffin-version. The tang of the tomatoes, the creaminess from the cheese and the fresh burst of basil are just as delicious in the morning.
What you need:
- 1 whole wheat english muffin
- 1 large slice of tomato
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella *optional fried egg
- 1 tsp fresh basil, finely chopped
1. Turn on your broiler.
2. Top one half of the English muffin with the sliced tomato and then shredded mozzarella.
3. Place it on a baking sheet, along with the other half of the English muffin.
4. Slide under the broiler.
5. Broil until the cheese is melted and browned in places.
6. Remove from the oven and add the fried egg, if desired, and the fresh basil.
7. Top with the other half of the English muffin.
Frozen Fruit Smoothie
These fruity, creamy shakes are refreshing on a hot day. They come together in minutes, use ingredients that you most likely have on hand, and pack nutrition and energy in every satisfying sip.
What you need:
- 2 cups frozen berries or fruit
- 2 Tbsp. orange juice concentrate (or 1/2 cup orange juice)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- 1 frozen banana
- 1 Tbsp. honey
Add all ingredients to your blender and blend until completely smooth.
*Optional: Add 1-2 Tbsp. of flax seeds to the blender for even more nutrition.
Greek Omelette in a Pita
Greek flavors wake up the tastebuds in the morning without a lot of fat or calories. This handheld breakfast powers kids up with a good mix of protein, carbs and even a serving of vegetables.
What you need:
- 1 tsp. oil
- 2 Tbsp. chopped onions
- 1/4 cup chopped red bell peppers
- 2 eggs salt and pepper
- 2 Tbsp. crumbled feta cheese
- 2 Tbsp. store-bought hummus
- 1 pita, cut in half
1. Crack the eggs in a small bowl and whisk with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
2. Add oil to a small non-stick skillet.
3. Saute the onions until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the bell peppers and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Add in the eggs and quickly stir all the ingredients together and let them cook completely, about 5 minutes.
6. Turn off the heat and top with feta cheese.
7. Spread 1 tablespoon of the hummus on each half of the pita.
8. Fill the pita with the eggs.
Sourced from Parenting.com
Photos courtesy of Irene Noberg (Flickr), Wikimedia commons
