Happy New Year y’all! I’ve been so busy in the Test Kitchen, I feel like this year flew by. Every January, I make a resolution and this year I’m trying to improve what I eat for breakfast. It is the most important meal of the day, so I should start my day on the right foot.
But just because I’m trying to be a bit healthier, it doesn’t mean my taste buds have to sacrifice.
“I created this recipe by considering all the healthy ingredients that could go in it and sounded great,” says Mary Gonzalez. “I made this for my son’s birthday brunch… [and] he raved about it.” If you’re having weekend company, I think Mary’s Healthy Breakfast Casserole would be a great morning addition. Fresh veggies, eggs, potatoes and Canadian bacon are combined to make one satisfying breakfast casserole.
Donna Bardocz’s Morning Health Bars will be a hit on those mornings you have less time and need a quick grab-and-go bite. Donna shares, “Your going to love making these bars because not only are they easy and so wonderful to eat, but they are very versatile with letting you add what you like and have on hand.” I used pecans, dried cherries and chocolate chips like Donna suggests and they were tasty and filling. But, use add-ins your family likes. I bet they’re not going to be able to get enough of these!
I love baking loaves of banana bread. Recently, I’ve been fond of Caroline Mgawe’s Easy Healthy Banana Bread. “This easy recipe shows you how good healthy can taste,” says Caroline. “It makes the house smell so nice, people always smile when they come in.” I made this macadamia nuts and they added great crunch and flavor. But use a nut you enjoy (or leave ’em out). Have a sliced loaf of this ready in the freezer. When you’re looking for a little mid-morning snack you can quickly defrost a slice and have a healthy treat.
Banana muffins are convenient too and I love Cindy Sandberg’s Banana (Health-)Nut Muffins. These are super nutritious and taste great,” explains Cindy. “100% whole grain, fruit and yogurt – so no guilt in having seconds, or treating yourself to one (or two) of these muffins for breakfast!” These muffins were very moist and you’d never know you were eating something healthy. I did add a some chocolate chips to mine as a treat. Next time, I’m going to mix-in nuts and raisins. A wonderful (and healthy) way to start the day.
Granola is something I used to pick up at the store. But then I discovered Elaine Douglas’ Home Made Healthy Granola. “This is a delicious recipe that is much healthier and fresher than the purchased granola,” says Elaine. This granola has great flavor and just the right amount of crunch. Put some in a resealable bag and you’ve got a great on-the-go snack for your purse. This would also be tasty added to a cup of yogurt.
Small changes can have big results. By adjusting my breakfast, I know I’ll be able to stick my resolution a bit better. Did you make any new year’s resolutions?