You can cook up a big batch of healthy oatmeal (Irish/Scotch) over the weekend, store in the refrigerator, and you’re ready for a week’s worth of easy healthy breakfasts. It reheats in just a few minutes; just add a little water. Oatmeal can be topped so many different ways keeping it from being boring.

• Bring 6 cups water to a boil in a large saucepan.
• Add 1 teaspoon sea salt
• Stir in 1 1/2 cup steel cut oats
• Lower the heat and simmer the oats uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes or until the desired consistency is reached. I like my oats on the thick/stiff side. If you like them a bit thinner, cook them a less.

Servings: 5

Toppings for Easy and Healthy Oatmeal

• Toasted, chopped walnuts, banana slices, and a drizzle of pure maple syryp
• Toasted, chopped pistachios and dried cranberries
• Fresh berries (blueberries, sliced strawberries, raspberries), a drizzle of cream and a sprinkle of sucanat (natural cane sugar)
• Chunky applesauce, cinnamon, and sucanat
• Chopped dried figs, chopped walnuts, and a drizzle of honey
• A spoonful of fruit spread and a dollop of plain or vanilla yogurt

More Variations for Healthy Steel-Cut Oatmeal

• Add 2 tablespoons of sweet potato or pumpkin puree to each cup of oatmeal and stir to combine. Add cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice to taste. Top with a drizzle of maple syrup or sprinkle of brown sugar
• Stir in 1 tablespoon of natural peanut butter to each cup of oatmeal. Top with a drizzle of honey or sweetener of your choice
• Stir in 1 tablespoon of natural sugar free fruit spread of your choice. Sprinkle with chopped nuts and dried fruit pieces.