Easy Oatmeal

We love to have oatmeal for breakfast. ¼ cup of oatmeal mixed with a smushed banana is Ned's favorite way to start the day! By making oatmeal myself, I get to control the amount of sugar it contains. Since breakfast time with three little kids is CRAZY, I have a hard time making oatmeal from scratch most mornings. I've found a cool short-cut: cook-ahead oatmeal.

When I do have time to make oatmeal (sometimes this is in the afternoon or evening), I make extra and throw it in the fridge. The next morning I pull it out, add a little milk or water, heat it up in the microwave, and we're ready to go.

Just follow the cooking instructions for your favorite variety of oats (quick, old fashioned, steel cut, etc).

Oatmeal is good for everyone in the family! All varieties of oats are whole grain. Studies show that oatmeal lowers bad cholesterol while improving intestinal health (read: helps you stay regular) and controlling appetite.

To make super-nutritious oatmeal even better, try one or more of these ideas:

• Make it with milk instead of water for added protein, calcium, vitamins and minerals
• Add your favorite fresh, dried, canned (drained), or frozen fruits
• Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg
• Sprinkle on a handful of nuts

Today's tip: Make a batch of oatmeal and portion it into covered bowls. Pull them out tomorrow for a quick and healthy breakfast!