Breakfast Smoothies and Oatmeal

Ever since we started The Two Pears, we’ve gotten a lot of feedback from people asking us to do a post about breakfast recipes. It seems that people who are trying to improve their eating habits do a great job choosing healthy lunches and dinners, but can’t seem to overcome the greasy eggs and bacon or sugary pancakes and French toast that make up standard breakfast fare. 

We’re always told that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so we’ve found some alternatives that’ll keep you energized and full until lunch.

The recipes below are our personal favorites. Most mornings, you can find us eating some variation of them. The greatest thing about them both is that they’re totally customizable. Craving more protein? Toss in some toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans. Want it sweeter? A dash of maple syrup or honey will do the trick. Hate spinach? Substitute in some kale or beet greens, or leave it out entirely. The possibilities are endless. 

JULIA’S OATMEAL

½ frozen banana

½ cup of oats

¼ cup of pumpkin puree

2 tsp. of cinnamon

almond extract

vanilla extract

Method:

In a small pot, boil one cup of water. While the water is coming to a boil, cut a frozen banana into chunks and heat them in a separate pot. Once the bananas are melted and the water is boiled, add oats to the pot with banana and pour the water over the top. Stir frequently to incorporate banana. Let the oats cook until the mixture gets fluffy. Incorporate the cinnamon while continuing to stir. Once everything is mixed, add a large scoop of pumpkin puree (about 1/3-1/2 cup) and heat for another minute. Add a few drops of almond and vanilla extract.

Serve with toppings and enjoy!!

SONDRA’S GREEN MONSTER SMOOTHIE

¼ cup sunflower seeds, toasted

¼ cup oats

2 tbsp. flax meal

1 handful of raisins

2 dates

1 tbsp. coconut oil

2 handfuls of baby spinach

5 ice cubes

5 strawberries, frozen

½ banana, frozen

water

2 tbsp. almond butter

Method:

Toast sunflower seeds in the microwave for 1 minute 30 seconds, being careful not to burn them. Combine sunflower seeds, oats, and flax meal in a food processor and pulse until combined. Add raisins, dates, and coconut oil and combine. Next, add baby spinach, ice cubes, strawberries, and bananas and pulse until combined. Add water until the desired consistency is reached. Serve topped with a scoop of almond butter.

TOPPING SUGGESTIONS:

Almond butter

Peanut butter

Fresh fruit

Sunflower seeds, toasted with cinnamon

Maple syrup (as sweetener)

Toasted nuts

Granola
Unsweetened Baking Chocolate