I never used to eat oatmeal for breakfast back in Belgium, but now that I’ve been eating it more and more here in the US, it has become one of my favorite breakfast, especially before a long run or a hard workout. It feels nice to have a warm, filling and tasty meal before going  through a long day! I also like that there are so many different versions and flavors. Here is my favorite one of the moment.

Makes one serving:

• One serving of whole grain oats (make sure they are gluten-free if needed)
• Water for one serving (follow package instructions)
• 1 pinch of salt
• ½ apple
• ½ tsp cinnamon or one cinnamon stick
• Lemon juice
• Maple syrup or brown sugar

Dice the ½ apple (peeled or not) in really small pieces. In a saucepan, sauté the apple with cinnamon on medium heat for a little bit, making sure it doesn’t stick to the bottom (add 1-2 tbsp of water if it does). Add the oats and stir occasionally for about 1 minute, then add the water. Allow to simmer for a few minutes (following package instructions), constantly stirring. Add some brown sugar or maple syrup, to taste. Let sit for a few minutes before serving. Add a little bit of squeezed lemon juice, stir, and serve with your favorite toppings.

I like to add some fresh apple slices, raisins, chopped walnuts or a spoonful of apple butter. You can also throw a tsp of seeds such as chia to make it even more filling and healthy.

What about you, what is your favorite way to prepare your oatmeal?