Breakfast: Herbed Oatmeal with Grilled Tomatoes and Avocado
Looking for a unique, healthy, and satisfying breakfast that will energize you for the day ahead? Look no further than this Herbed Oatmeal with Grilled Tomatoes and Avocado. This savory twist on traditional oatmeal is packed with nutrients and bursting with flavors, making it the perfect start to your morning.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth (for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or your favorite herb, like rosemary or basil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled and sliced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley or cilantro)
Instructions:
Prepare the Oatmeal: Start by cooking the oats. In a medium-sized saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil. Once boiling, add the rolled oats and reduce the heat to a simmer. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the oats have absorbed the liquid and are creamy in texture.
Add Fresh Herbs and Seasoning: Once your oatmeal is cooked, stir in the fresh thyme (or your preferred herb), salt, and pepper to taste. This will infuse the oats with an aromatic, savory flavor that sets them apart from the traditional sweet version.
Grill the Tomatoes: While the oats are cooking, heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Drizzle the olive oil onto the pan and place the tomato slices on it. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the tomatoes soften slightly. If desired, drizzle a bit of balsamic vinegar over the tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.
Prepare the Avocado: While the tomatoes are grilling, slice your avocado into thin pieces. For added flair, you can fan the slices out in a circular pattern for a beautiful presentation.
Assemble the Dish: Once the oatmeal is ready, spoon it into a bowl. Arrange the grilled tomato slices on top of the oatmeal, followed by the avocado slices. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some chili flakes over the top.
Garnish and Serve: Finish off the dish by garnishing with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro. This will add a vibrant touch and enhance the herby flavors.
Why This Breakfast is a Game-Changer:
Nutrient-Packed: Oats are a great source of fiber, while tomatoes are loaded with vitamins A and C. Avocados provide healthy fats, helping to keep you full and satisfied throughout the morning.
Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and toppings. You can add a poached egg for extra protein or swap in roasted vegetables for variety.
Satisfying and Savory: This recipe offers a savory alternative to typical sweet oatmeal, catering to those who prefer a more filling, umami-packed start to their day.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top of the oatmeal before serving.
- Swap out the avocado for a dollop of Greek yogurt for a tangy contrast.
Boost your breakfast with this savory, heart-healthy Herbed Oatmeal with Grilled Tomatoes and Avocado. It’s quick, flavorful, and packed with nutrients—perfect for kickstarting your day!