savory spinach & goat cheese oatmeal
There’s no need to head to a quick-service chain for a breakfast bite on the go. Homemade oatmeal can be nearly as quick and simple. Pre-prep the ingredients the night before, if you like. Then skip the snooze alarm and whip up this great-tasting, good-for-you, comforting take on oatmeal. By going savory instead of sweet, it’ll be more satisfying than a few extra minutes of disrupted sleep anyway!
Calories saved: 50
Why it’s better for you? Lots less sugar, lots more fiber and protein, and lots of veggie goodness
Ingredients
- 3 large sun-dried tomato halves, not oil-packed, finely chopped (do not rehydrate)
- 1 scallion, green and white parts, minced
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned whole grain rolled oats
- 3 cups packed fresh baby spinach (3 ounces)
- 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest + additional for garnish
- 1/8 teaspoon sea salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon crumbled soft goat cheese*
Instructions
- Bring 1 1/4 cups water, the sun-dried tomatoes, scallion, and pepper to a boil in a small saucepan.
- Reduce heat to medium, add the oats, and stir until fully cooked, about 5 minutes. Add the spinach and stir until fully wilted, about 1 minute. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon of the lemon zest and salt to taste.
- Transfer to a bowl, sprinkle with the goat cheese, garnish with additional lemon zest, and serve. Enjoy alongside a cup of green tea and, if you wish, a serving of fresh seasonal fruit.
Notes
Per serving: 240 calories, 4.5g total fat, 1.5g saturated fat, 0g trans fat, 5mg cholesterol, 480mg sodium, 41g total carbohydrate, 9g dietary fiber, 4g sugars, 12g protein
*If you prefer to go vegan, simply skip the goat cheese. The oatmeal will still be tasty while providing 20 fewer calories.
The “Before” Version
Inspired by: fruit & maple oatmeal
http://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en/food/product_nutrition.breakfast.711.fruit-maple-oatmeal-.html
Per serving: 290 calories, 4g total fat, 1.5g saturated fat, 0g trans fat, 5mg cholesterol, 160mg sodium, 58g total carbohydrate, 5g dietary fiber, 32g sugars, 5g protein
Tasteover Tips
- Try transforming sweet dishes into savory dishes for an exciting new twist on classics
- If adding spinach to a recipe, create extra freshness, flavor, and balance with lemon zest
- Consider adding a luxurious ingredient, such as goat cheese, just on top for an appearance of extra richness
I love oatmeal, and this sounds absolutely delicious!
Hi Matt! I’m so glad you think so! Hope you try it soon! Jackie