If you’re like most people, you probably don’t have time to cook a big morning meal. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best whole food breakfast ideas! These foods will give you sustained energy throughout the day and help keep your metabolism going strong.
Even though we’ve all heard many times that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, it’s easy to skip when we’re in a rush. Or we may choose a sugary bowl of cereal or granola bar as a quick fix. But it’s a good idea to take a few extra minutes to prepare yourself whole breakfast foods that are well-balanced, your energy levels will remain consistent.
Your morning routine sets the tone for the rest of the day, so why not start it off right with a nutritious breakfast? Whole foods are a great way to fuel your body and mind, and there are plenty of delicious options to choose from. Here are ten whole foods that make for a perfect breakfast.
What Makes a Good Breakfast?
A good breakfast needs to have a good balance between the three macro-nutrients: proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. All three of these will work together to give you the energy you need and get your body working to the best of its ability starting first thing in the morning.
– Protein is important because your body uses proteins for so many of your body’s functions and it leaves you feeling satisfied for longer so you won’t be as hungry at lunch.
– Getting enough healthy fat at breakfast will boost your brain function and energy all day.
– Carbohydrates are your body’s main source of energy, so including these in the morning is important for jump-starting your day.
Now, here are a few of our favorite whole food breakfast recipes. What we love about them is not only how balanced they are, but how easy they are, so there’s no need to get up at the crack of dawn to make them!
1. Baked Oatmeal
Baked oatmeal is an easy, delicious way to get a healthy start to your day. Not only is it a great source of fiber and protein, but you can tailor the flavor by adding things such as fresh fruit, nuts, maple syrup or honey. Try preparing oatmeal for breakfast in the morning to fuel your day with an energizing meal full of nutrients and rich flavor.
2. Super-Powered Eggs
Begin by preparing ½ cup of cubed sweet potato and ½ of a medium tomato. Next, whisk 2 eggs in a bowl while your pan is heating. Then, add a teaspoon of butter to the pan along with your sweet potatoes. Keep them moving in the pan to cook them thoroughly then add your eggs and continue moving the food in the pan. When the eggs are finished, mix in the tomatoes and top with a tablespoon of parmesan cheese.
3. Quick Kefir Smoothie
If you’re running short on time, toss 1 cup of low-fat kefir, 2 tablespoons of chia seeds, and 1 ½ cup of frozen berries (your choice) into a blender to make a delicious smoothie that’s packed with everything you need to start your day. See how to make your own kefir.
4. Piled-High Toast
Place 1 slice of whole grain bread into the toaster. While that’s toasting, mash ½ of a ripe avocado with a fork until it’s nice and smooth. Add that onto the toast as soon as it comes out and top that with cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, fresh herbs and a bit of black pepper for a perfectly crunchy and creamy start to your day.
5. Wonderful Walnut Wraps
Start by spreading 1 ½ tablespoons of natural peanut butter onto a 7- or 8-inch whole wheat tortilla. Then, add 3 tablespoons of chopped walnuts and 1 sliced banana. Roll it up for a sweet but nutrient-packed breakfast.
6. Green Smoothie
Green smoothies are a great way to incorporate more nutrition into your diet. Not only are they packed with essential vitamins and minerals, but they also taste delicious! They can be made from a variety of fruits, vegetables, and seeds – giving endless options for different flavor combinations. Whether you prefer an apple-spinach-chia combination for breakfast or a celery-coconut-strawberry smoothie with a scoop of protein powder for a mid-day snack, green smoothies have something for everyone. Their health benefits include improved digestion, glowing skin, energy boosts, improved immunity, and so much more. Next time you want to get your daily dose of nutrients in one simple drink, try making yourself a homemade green smoothie – your body will thank you!
7. Bacon
Bacon is undoubtedly one of the most beloved breakfast staples around the world. Its unique smoky flavor and crispy, crunchy texture make it the perfect addition to a variety of dishes, such as omelettes, scrambled eggs, pancakes, sandwiches and all sorts of breakfast burritos. It can also be enjoyed all by itself. For health-conscious individuals there are healthier alternatives on the market, like turkey bacon and vegan strips made with seitan or tempeh. Whatever kind of bacon you choose to indulge in, savor its unique taste while appreciating its versatility!
8. Protein Pancakes
With an abundance of nutritious ingredients such as almond flour, coconut or oat flour, flax and chia seeds, these pancakes are sure to impress. Enjoy them smothered with your favorite nut butter or fresh fruit for a satisfying and energizing way to start the day. Not only do these make a great vegan breakfast, they’ll also help provide you with important nutrients and amino acids to keep you fueled throughout the busy morning. Who knew that something so effortless and delectable could also be good for you?
9. Avocado Toast
Avocado toast is a delicious and nutritious snack that has earned its place in the modern culinary lexicon. The combination of creamy, rich avocado with whole grain toast makes for an exquisite flavor combination that can be further elevated with additions such as fresh vegetables and herbs. Individually or shared, avocado toast is a great choice for a meal on-the-go or weekend brunch with friends. Not only does each bite taste amazing, avocados are also packed with vitamins and healthy fats — making each bite guilt free!
10. Fruit, Kale & Quinoa Bowl
Packed with nutrition, a whole fruit, kale & quinoa Bowl is the perfect way to start the day. Start with a layer of cooked quinoa in the bottom of your bowl and top it with your favorite fruits. Add any other ingredients you may want, such as nuts or flax seeds, for added texture and flavor. Drizzle some honey over it all and finish off your breakfast bowl with a splash of almond milk or yogurt. This healthy combo will give you energy to fuel you throughout the morning while providing essential nutrients that will keep your body in tip-top shape.
11. Overnight Oats
Start your day on the right foot with a delicious, healthy breakfast that’s ready in minutes! Whip up some overnight oats by mixing rolled oats, milk, yogurt and fruit together. Pop it in the fridge for a few hours and when you wake up enjoy nutritious goodness topped off with nuts or seeds – perfect for busy mornings on-the-go!
12. Smoothie Bowl
A smoothie bowl is a thick and creamy smoothie that is served in a bowl and topped with fruit, nuts, and seeds. Simply blend your favorite fruits, vegetables, and liquids until smooth and pour into a bowl. Top with whatever toppings you like and enjoy!
13. Breakfast Burrito
A breakfast burrito is a hearty and filling breakfast option that can be made ahead of time. Simply wrap eggs, cheese, potatoes, and your favorite toppings in a whole wheat tortilla and reheat when you’re ready to eat.
14. Frittata
A frittata is an easy and versatile breakfast option that can be made with whatever ingredients you have on hand. Simply whisk together eggs, milk, and your desired seasonings and pour into a baking dish. Add in any combination of cooked meats, vegetables, or cheeses and bake until set.
No matter what your preference is, there are plenty of healthy and delicious breakfast options to choose from. Oatmeal, eggs, bacon, pancakes, waffles, and fruit are all great choices that will give you the energy you need to start your day.
4 Responses
Breakfast is my absolute favorite meal of the day, but I feel like I’m currently in a run bouncing between a plate of scrambled eggs and a bowl of oatmeal right now. I am super excited to give some of these other whole food brekkie dishes a try! The fruit, kale, and quinoa bowl is Monday’s option for sure!
Oooo that breakfast burrito sounds wonderful! I also love my green smoothie a few times a week! Thanks for sharing all of these ideas in one place, I can’t wait to come back to this when I’m in a breakfast rut and bored of my same 2 options!
I always struggle with breakfast in the morning because I work out right after I wake up but these seem to be some quick breakfast idea thanks
Love all these ideas! And the walnut wraps look amazing!