Don't Neglect Breakfast: Quick Hot Breakfast Ideas

The month of February is filled with occasions associated with food. There are dinner and chocolates for Valentine’s Day, heart-healthy cooking for American Heart Month and splurging on snack food and wings for the Super Bowl. But many people do not know that February is also National Hot Breakfast Month. Everyone knows that breakfast is the most important meal of the day because starting out on a full stomach helps you to focus and perform well the entire day. Hot breakfast month encourages everyone to eat a more balanced and fulfilling meal.

Here are some quick combinations for a healthy hot breakfast for people who are on-the-go:

Whole grain waffles topped with fresh fruit or peanut butter.

Whole grain toast, bagel, or English muffin with peanut butter and fruit spread.

Peanut butter and banana slices wrapped in a warm whole wheat tortilla.

Tomato and Swiss stuffed pita pocket (microwave for 15-30 seconds).

Hard boiled eggs with a low-fat cheese stick (prepare eggs up to a few days ahead of time and simply reheat them in the microwave by putting them in a cup of water).

Oatmeal is a quick and easy option that will keep you feeling full until lunchtime. Try unflavored instant oatmeal and dress it up yourself. You can add more fiber and protein by making it with skim milk instead of water and topping it with blueberries, bananas, dried cranberries, almonds or pecans. Add more flavor with ground cinnamon maple extract or vanilla extract. Let kids be creative by choosing their own mixes and flavor combinations.

Try making a breakfast sandwich or wrap with turkey bacon, turkey sausage or egg whites for a healthier alternative. Add nutrient-dense toppings like vegetables and low-fat cheese for more flavor.

Eggs are a great breakfast staple that keeps you feeling full and pack in the protein. If you are tired of plain scrambled eggs, try adding these extras to your scrambled eggs for a great flavor combination:

• Spinach and cherry tomatoes topped with Feta cheese.
• Quinoa and kale topped with Swiss cheese.
• Mushrooms and black beans topped with avocado.
• Onions and bell peppers topped with salsa.