I've been noticing over the past few days that I am really getting bored with my breakfast routine! Breakfast should be something to look forward to, which is why I transitioned to my “summer breakfast” theme of müesli. Have you heard of it? Some stores sell versions of it in the cereal aisle, as a mix of oats, nuts, and dried fruit, HOWEVER, it is so much more than that!
Birchermüesli was “invented” by a Swiss fellow who introduced it to hospitalized patients in order to feed them more healthy, wholesome food in hope of healing them more quickly. After all, fruits, nuts, and whole grains are medicine for our bodies. I was introduced to müesli as a child with my grandparents in Switzerland, and I still love the stuff! The real thing is more like rolled oats (old-fashioned) with fresh fruit, milk (possible yogurt), and nuts. It really is perfect for breakfast, and the hot weather. Who wants to eat hot oatmeal in the summer anyway?
Here is how I make mine:
- ~ 1/2 cup Old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/4 cup skim milk
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- Fruit (at least 2 types)
- 1 grated apple
- 1/2 sliced banana
- 1/2 cup berries
- 1 peach (YUM), plum, or apricot, chopped
- 1 pear, chopped
- ~1/8 cup nuts (optional)
- 1/8 cup wheat germ (optional)
Mix together and enjoy!
*Hint: try to mix up the textures a bit. For example, if you're using a peach and a pear, try to use nuts to give it a crunch.
Birchermüesli has fiber to keep you full until lunch, vitamins and minerals to get your day started on the right track, and is completely balanced. 1 serving of whole grains, 1 serving of non/low fat dairy, 1+ servings of fruits, and nuts!
Marina Bedrossian is a Northport, NY dietitian nutritionist who helps people with holistic nutrition solutions and food sensitivities. Visit this page to schedule an appointment and don’t forget to join the private Facebook group “Ingredients For Healthy Families” more information here.