Project Breakfast: Strawberry Banana Smoothie and Oatmeal

Breakfast is a real challenge for me. I know it is the "most important meal" and I absolutely eat it every single day. But I am very boring about it. In the winter, I eat oatmeal and in the summer I eat cereal or granola. But, when I eat at 7:30 AM before work, I am usually hungry again by 10. Clearly, I'm not making the best of the most important meal of my day. So, last week, I began Project Breakfast. I am challenging myself to mix it up and try at least one unique breakfast a week.

For week one of the challenge, I made my traditional oatmeal concoction with a small strawberry banana smoothie to complement it. They were both easy and fairly light but they kept me satiated until almost noon! Here's what was in them:

Peanut Butter Honey Oatmeal

1/2 c quick oats

1 c water

1 tbsp peanut butter (i used crunchy)

1 tbsp honey

1/4 c vanilla soymilk

Mix oats and water in a microwave safe bowl. Microwave on high for 2:22 (times will vary depending on microwave and power supply- my apartment's power is weak). Mix in peanut butter and honey and pour soy milk over the top. Delicious enough for me to eat every day for months. I hope you enjoy!

Calories: 325

Strawberry Banana Smoothie

5 large frozen strawberries

1/2 banana

1/2 c soymilk

Mix all ingredients in blender and blend until smooth. If it's too dry, add more soymilk until you get the right consistency. 

Calories: 170

And there, at a total of 495 calories and fullness until noon, you have the first edition of Project Breakfast.  I enjoyed the contrast of the frozen smoothie with the hot oatmeal. The combination was comforting and refreshing at the same time. 

With this challenge, I hope to become more healthy, creative, and well-fueled. But I'm also aiming not to spend too much time preparing these pre-work meals. If you have any great go-to breakfasts that keep you full until lunch, I'd love ideas!