Healthy, Hearty, Homemade…..and in a Hurry!!!
By Calli Rhoades

         We all know the granola bar and toaster pastry options for quick breakfast, but who has time to make anything homemade, or better yet, healthy for breakfast. You do!

         From adding simple ingredients to spruce up a dull standby to preparing things ahead of time and zapping them in the microwave on your way out, there are many options available to those of us who would like something quick that is also good for us.

Breakfast Burritos (frozen) - If you check out the recipe section of this newsletter you will find a recipe for breakfast burritos to be rolled up and frozen. Then, in a rush you grab it, microwave it, and enjoy a healthy, nutrient packed breakfast. Wrap it in a whole wheat tortilla for even better results.

Hearty Breakfast Bars - Make a batch of breakfast bars ahead of time and wrap them up to use the next day or throughout the week.

Smoothie Time - Smoothies can be made from a huge variety of items. Some can even be prepared ahead of time and frozen and some can be tossed together in just a minute or two. By adding specific fruits and other ingredients you can really gear a smoothie at just what your body needs for the day.

Fruit Salad - Cut up fruits the night before and put them in the fridge. Apples can be sprayed with lemon juice or a lemon-lime soda to keep them from turning brown. Fruits are an excellent source of fiber so they are a great way to start out.

Muffins - There is no reason you can't cook muffins ahead of time. Prepare them with wholesome ingredients and they will beat any store bought muffin. Whole wheat flower, bran, and fruit are just a few ideas. Put them in an air tight container for a few days or in the freezer for longer storage.

Tricked Out Toast - A simple piece of toast with some peanut butter and sliced bananas is fast and packed full of protein.

Dressed Up Oatmeal - Make your own oatmeal or add a special touch to the old instant oatmeal favorite by tossing some fresh or dried fruit in.

Pancakes or French Toast - There is no reason you can't enjoy some of these favorites just because you are in a hurry. Just prepare a big batch on the weekend and freeze them. As with the muffins you can fill them full of nutritious ingredients and make for a great breakfast on a busy morning.

There are just a few ideas to get you and your family started. Life is busy, but you can still enjoy a healthy breakfast with that homemade touch!

* DVO welcomes your kitchen hints and cooking or nutrition questions! Email us and we'll post your hints and Q/A's in upcoming newsletters! *