10 Best Healthy Breakfast Foods to Eat. I thought we’d start the new year off right. Here are some breakfast foods you should be considering.
It’s officially 2021! A new year full of hope and promise. We will still be at home going to school virtually, probably for the remainder of the school year. What about you guys? I’m thinking a vaccine will be available for everyone in the summer? Maybe earlier?
I do believe in starting your day with a healthy, good breakfast. But do you know what’s good to eat? What’s good for your body? I read this article from Eating Well and wanted to share it with you all here.
10 Best Healthy Breakfast Foods to Eat
#1: Anything with Greek Yogurt.
My favorite way to eat it: straight from the cup. With granola and fresh fruit. With a waffle. the possibilities are endless. “Another fast breakfast for busy mornings is to make a Greek yogurt parfait. Greek yogurt contains more protein than regular yogurt, making it more filling. Choose plain over flavored yogurts and add your own fruit to limit added sugar. Finish it with some chopped nuts for some healthy fat and a sprinkle of your favorite granola for added flavor. You can change it up throughout the year by choosing whatever fruit is in season.”
#2: Overnight Oats
“Oats are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals that promote good digestion, steady energy, and healthy cholesterol.” Chia seeds add healthy fat, protein, and even more fiber and the berries (or any fruit, really) contributes to your total fruit intake. Overnight Oats are great for busy mornings because you can make them the night before and just grab and go when you wake up.” Click here for my Almond Butter Banana Overnight Oats recipe.
10 Best Healthy Breakfast Foods to Eat
#3: Sweet Potatoes!
Sweet potatoes are a great way to add healthy carbohydrates to your morning meal. This is especially important for active people and can be a great way to fuel morning workouts. Eating Well suggests having a small Baked Sweet Potato (or 1/2 of one) with Peanut Butter and Sliced Apples or Raisins in the morning. Sweet potatoes are also rich in potassium, vitamin A, fiber, and many other important nutrients. When paired with the healthy fats and protein from nut butter and the extra fiber in the apples, you have a well-balanced breakfast. Want a bigger boost of protein? Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt on top of a baked sweet potato. Or, if you’re looking for a savory option, try my Sweet Potato Toasts and add an egg or sliced avocado on top!
#4: Lentil Breakfast Bowl
“Though they may not seem like a typical breakfast food, lentils can make a great base for a savory breakfast. Lentils provide high quality plant-based protein and essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are also incredibly versatile, easy to cook and a healthy and satisfying choice to power you through until lunch. Try this Lentils with Fried Eggs and Greens or Lentil Sausage Breakfast Bowl for an easy, delicious breakfast that will keep you satisfied until lunch.”
#5: Quinoa Breakfast Bowl
Quinoa can be a great substitute for oats when you want to mix it up. Quinoa is a good source of fiber, iron and protein and helps keep you feeling fuller, longer. It’s a versatile grain that can be seasoned with ginger, vanilla, cinnamon or other spices. You can pair it with citrus or berries, which contain vitamin C and enhances iron absorption. For added protein and healthy fat, top it with a dollop of your favorite nut butter or some chopped nuts or seeds. Or make it a savory bowl with some sautéed greens and an egg. Try this Spiced Quinoa Breakfast or Apple-Cinnamon Quinoa Bowl. Here are some of my recipes using quinoa, click here.
#6: Oatmeals Bowls
“Oats are a great choice for a healthy breakfast. They contain soluble fiber, which can help regulate your blood sugar, lower cholesterol, and keep you full longer than other cereals. Going the savory route lends itself to more vegetables at breakfast, which can help you reach the recommended two to three cups of vegetables per day. Eating Well suggests adding sweet potatoes, spinach, and roasted pepitas for a balanced option. Try this: Savory Oatmeal with Cheddar, Collards, and Eggs.
#7: A Kefir Smoothie
A smoothie is the perfect on-the-go option that can pack in a ton of nutrition. Christa Brown, M.S., R.D.N., owner of Christa Brown Dietitian recommends adding kefir, which provides protein, calcium, and probiotics. Blend it with your favorite fruit and some nut butter or flax seed for healthy fats for a quick balanced breakfast. Want an even bigger nutrient boost? Add a handful of spinach or a half-cup of riced cauliflower for extra fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Click here for my Kefir Smoothie recipe.
#8: Avocado Toast!!
Probably my all time favorite and my go-to! Choose whole grain toast for the extra fiber and then pair it with a protein source for increased satisfaction. Add an egg on top, or smoked salmon is another great option. For a plant-based version, try hemp seeds and a squeeze of lime or black beans and salsa. The possibilities are endless, but if you want some inspiration, click here for my options and here for more healthy avocado toast recipes.
#9: Tofu Scramble
Are you a fan of tofu? A tofu scramble is a great way to get more plant-based protein in your diet, which is tied to many different health benefits. Add your favorite vegetables, herbs, and spices and pair with whole grain toast topped with nut butter or avocado for a well-balanced filling breakfast. Or, wrap it up in a tortilla with black beans, veggies, salsa, and avocado for a super filling plant-forward breakfast burrito. Click here for my Loaded Tofu Scramble Tacos.
#10: Whole-Grain Waffles
Weekends can be a great time to whip up a batch of waffles or pancakes that can be eaten throughout the week. Freeze homemade waffles, or buy them from the grocery store! Whole-grain options, whether made from whole wheat flour or oats, are the best choice to keep blood sugar stable and keep you satisfied longer. Instead of reaching for traditional sugary toppings like syrup and whipped cream, go for something more nutritious like Greek yogurt, chopped nuts and fresh berries. Click here for my waffle recipe.
BONUS: Cottage Cheese on Whole Grain Toast!
Click here.
