When you’re running late in the morning, skipping breakfast sometimes seems like the best option. But foregoing your first meal leaves you low on energy, and more likely to make poor food decisions later in the day. To help you squeeze in some sustenance check out these six quick breakfast options that crush the stigma that fast food isn’t healthy. Each and every one is grab-and-go and good for you!
1. Smoothies
Just add ingredients and blend! A smoothie is a foolproof way to get protein and nutrients in the morning without cooking a thing. Invest in a personal blender like the Magic Bullet and even cleanup will be minimal! For the perfect protein smoothie add one cup of fruit, one cup of milk (or a non-dairy alternative), one serving of low-sugar protein powder and 1-2 tablespoons of nut butter.
Don’t even have time to prepare your smoothie? I’m a big fan of Daily Harvest, a pre-made smoothie subscription service. Just pick your favorite smoothies and get them delivered pre-packaged and frozen. Then just throw them in a blender and you’re good to go!
2. Pre-made Parfaits
Hop on the Mason jar trend and prep parfaits the night before — you can even make a few at a time. Layer yogurt, fruit, cereal and repeat. The best part about this quick breakfast recipe is it never gets boring. You can use any type of fruit you like and even try swapping out yogurt for a non-dairy alternative like soy or coconut yogurt.
3. Microwave Eggs
You can create a delicious egg sandwich in your kitchen faster than you can make it through the drive-thru. All you need is a small microwave-safe cup or container, or a store bought microwave egg poacher. Crack an egg into the microwave-safe container and heat for one minute. While your egg cooks, pop a whole wheat English muffin or two slices of bread in the toaster. Add a slice of cheese and you have a hot breakfast sandwich to go — minus the guilt and grease!
4. Soaked Oats
Soaking oats in the refrigerator overnight turns them soft and edible, no cooking required. To make this easy twist on a morning favorite, mix 1/3 cup of oats with a 1/2 cup of milk or non-dairy alternative, and any other ingredients you would normally put in your oatmeal. Chopped fruit and nuts are a great choice (try blueberries and walnuts for a skin boost) and add extra flavor with a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg.
5. Egg Frittata
Cooking a frittata on Sunday gives you a nutritious breakfast until Wednesday. You can even use a muffin tray for easy to serve portions. Pack your frittata with veggies (chopped spinach, asparagus, and onion are popular pairings), sliced tomatoes and cheese. Bake in the oven for ten minutes and store in the refrigerator to grab before you rush out the front door.
6. Chia Seed Pudding
If you’ve been looking for an easy was to incorporate chia seeds into your diet, you’ll love this idea. Mix a ¼ cup chia seeds with one cup of coconut milk and ½ tablespoon honey. Let the mixture soak overnight in the refrigerator. When ready your chia seed pudding will be thick and have a jelly-like consistency. You can top with fruit, cocoa nibs, or nuts for added flavor.
Do you have any of your own favorite fast morning meals? We’d love to know! Leave yours in the comments sections below…
