Turn that same-old, same-old oatmeal into a crunchy, chewy, nutrition-packed treat. A mixture of grains, dried apricots and nuts makes this a satisfying bowlful.

  • ¼ cup water, or ¼ cup apple juice, if you like you oatmeal super sweet
  • 1 cup milk, plus milk for serving
  • ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 6 dried apricot halves, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon oat bran, wheat germ or flaxseed
  • Pinch of ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon chopped nuts, such as walnuts, pecans or almonds
  • Low-fat vanilla yogurt (optional) for serving
  1. Place the water in a small saucepan over medium heat and let it come to a boil. Add 1 cup milk, and cook until just heated through, about 2 minutes. Stir in the oats, apricots, oat bran and cinnamon and let it come to a slow boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low to cook, stirring occasionally, until the oatmeal is thick enough for your taste, about 5 minutes.
  2. Remove the oatmeal from the heat and add the nuts. Serve with vanilla yogurt or more milk, if desired.

Serves 1

Tip:

Having a lazy morning? Preparing oatmeal takes no time at all if you pop it into the microwave. Place the milk, water, oatmeal, oat bran, apricots and cinnamon in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high power until thickened, 2 ½ o 3 minutes (if your microwave does not have a turntable, rotate the bowl a quarter turn after about 1 ½ minutes). Add the nuts and stir well before serving. Got a sweet tooth that just won’t quit? Sweeten the oatmeal to taste with Splenda, honey or a spoonful of all-fruit preserves.

Nutrition Info:

1 portion provides:

  • Protein: ½ serving, more if you use walnuts and wheat germ
  • Calcium: 1 serving, more if you use yogurt
  • Green leafy and yellow vegetables and fruits: 1 serving
  • Other fruits and vegetables: ½ serving if made with apple juice
  • Whole grains and legumes: 1 ½ servings.