Start your day with a powerhouse of nutrition and flavor! This quick and easy oatmeal recipe combines the wholesome goodness of oats, the natural sweetness of apples and bananas, and a creamy richness that will keep you satisfied and energized throughout the morning.
Ingredients
- 1 cup oatmeal (quick oats or old-fashioned)
- 2 tablespoons ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 50 ml water or milk (dairy, almond, oat milk)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Stevia or honey to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Base
- In a mixing bowl, combine oatmeal, ricotta cheese, and the egg.
- Whisk together until well mixed and smooth.
- Add Liquid and Flavoring
- Pour in water or milk
- Add vanilla extract
- Sweeten with stevia or preferred sweetener
- Mix thoroughly
- Prepare Fruits
- Peel and dice the apples into small, uniform cubes
- Mash the ripe banana completely
- Cooking
- Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick pan
- Pour the oatmeal mixture into the pan
- Add diced apples and mashed banana
- Cook on medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally
- Serve
- Transfer to a bowl
- Optional: Top with additional fresh fruits, nuts, or a drizzle of honey
Nutritional Information
Per Serving:
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 6g
- Preparation Time: 2 minutes
- Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
- Total Time: 5-6 minutes
- Servings: 1-2
Pro Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use very ripe bananas for natural sweetness
- Adjust liquid for desired consistency
- For extra protein, add a scoop of protein powder
- Toast oats briefly before mixing for enhanced flavor
- Use a non-stick pan to prevent sticking
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
- Dairy-Free: Replace ricotta with coconut yogurt
- Protein Boost: Add chia seeds or protein powder
- Nut Lovers: Sprinkle with chopped almonds or walnuts
- Chocolate Twist: Add a teaspoon of cocoa powder
- Seasonal Variation: Use seasonal fruits like berries or peaches
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Prepare the dry ingredients night before; add wet ingredients when ready to cook.
Q2: Is this recipe good for weight loss? A: High in fiber and protein, it’s an excellent balanced breakfast for weight management.
Q3: Can children eat this breakfast? A: Absolutely! It’s nutritious and can be easily customized for kids.
Q4: How can I make it gluten-free? A: Use certified gluten-free oats and check other ingredient labels.
Q5: Can I use frozen fruits? A: Yes, thaw and drain excess moisture before adding to the recipe.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store prepared mixture in an airtight container for 1-2 days
- Freezing: Not recommended due to egg and fresh fruit content
- Reheating: Warm gently in microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed
Enjoy this quick, nutritious, and delicious breakfast that proves healthy eating can be both simple and delightful!