5 Quick and Healthy Meal Planning For Busy Morning

Even though the mornings can be busy, having a healthy breakfast doesn't have to take a lot of time. We've put together a variety of breakfast recipes that serve one and are flavorful and nutrient-dense, while still being quick and simple to make.

These dishes are readily scaled up to feed a larger number of people while still meeting individual needs. Backed by nutritional science, each dish is meant to stimulate you and keep you satisfied throughout the morning. Try these simple breakfast ideas to see how easy it can be to have a satisfying and well-balanced start to your day. Now let's get started!


Monday - Yogurt Parfait

Mostly Mondays are little bit lazy day. So can we just look very easy breakfast?

Greek yogurt is a delicious, light, and incredibly healthy breakfast option. It has a high protein and calcium content as well as probiotics that help maintain a healthy immune system and gut.

Yogurt consumption is linked to improved food quality, a favorable metabolic profile, and a higher nutritional intake, according to a study published in the European Journal of Nutrition. To make it more substantial and nutritious, you can add fruits, nuts, and seeds. To save on extra calories, go for the one with no added sugar or flavor.


Ingredients

  1 cup Greek yogurt (plain or flavored; use low-fat or full-fat based on preference)

  1/4 cup granola or oats (store-bought or homemade)

 1/2 cup fresh fruit (such as berries, banana slices, apple chunks, or mango)

 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)

 1 teaspoon seeds (chia seeds, flaxseeds) and nuts (almonds or walnuts) (optional, for added nutrition)

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients: Wash and cut the fresh fruit into bite-sized pieces. If using frozen fruit, thaw it slightly.

Layer the Parfait:

First Layer: Spoon 1/3 of the Greek yogurt into a serving glass or bowl.

Second Layer: Add 2 tablespoons of granola on top of the yogurt.

Third Layer: Add 1/4 of the fresh fruit on top of the granola or oats

Repeat Layers: Add another layer of yogurt, granola, and fruit until you use up the ingredients or reach the top of the glass or bowl.

Add Toppings: Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the top if desired. Sprinkle chia seeds or flaxseeds and a few nuts on top for added crunch and nutrition.

Serve Immediately or Store: Enjoy right away for a fresh and crunchy parfait. If preparing in advance, cover and refrigerate. 

Tips for Variations

Fruit Options: Customize with your favorite fresh fruit. You can also use fruit compote or fruit preserves if fresh fruit isn’t available.

Yogurt Variations: Use any type of yogurt you prefer, such as non-dairy or flavored yogurt.


Tuesday - Scrambled Eggs with Toast

Wants to start your morning something simple and nutritious? Eggs are the best option

They include a lot of protein and good fats, which help you feel fuller for longer periods of time and manage your weight while providing you with enough energy.

According to a research in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition, eating eggs for breakfast reduces the overall number of calories taken during the day. Furthermore, lutein, zeaxanthin, and antioxidants included in egg yolks help to prevent eye disorders and enhance vision.

Ingredients

2 large eggs

Salt and pepper to taste

1 teaspoon butter or olive oil

1 slice whole-grain or your choice of bread

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients: In a bowl, crack the eggs and add Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Use a fork or whisk to beat the eggs and until well combined

Cook the Eggs: Place a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and add the butter or olive oil. Let it melt and coat the pan. Pour the beaten eggs into the skillet. Let them cook undisturbed for a few moments until the edges start to set. Gently stir the eggs with a spatula, pushing from the edges to the center. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are softly scrambled and just set. Be careful not to overcook them; they should be creamy and slightly moist.

Toast the Bread: While the eggs are cooking, toast the slice of bread in a toaster or toaster oven until golden brown.

Optional: Spread a thin layer of butter on the toast if desired.

Assemble and Serve: Place the scrambled eggs onto a plate. Place the toasted bread on the side of the plate or cut it into strips for dipping.

Tips

Low Heat: Cooking the eggs over low to medium-low heat helps them remain tender and fluffy.

Avoid Overcooking: Remove the eggs from the heat when they are still slightly creamy, as they will continue to cook from residual heat.


Wednesday - Avocado and Crackers 

Elevate your midweek mornings with a breakfast that’s as simple as it is satisfying! 

This is a delicious avocado and crackers combo that's perfect for a quick but wholesome supper. For a harmony of tastes and textures, this breakfast combines crisp whole-grain crackers with creamy avocado. It's a quick and simple way to start your day off well with plenty of fiber and good fats. Are you prepared to savor a great and nourishing breakfast? Let’s get started!

Ingredients

  1 ripe avocado

  4-6 whole-grain or multigrain crackers (choose your favorite type)

  1 small lemon or lime (for juice)

  Salt and pepper to taste

  Optional toppings: sliced radishes or tomato cucumber 

Instructions

Prepare the Avocado: Slice the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a small bowl. Mash the avocado with a fork until smooth or slightly chunky, depending on your preference.

Season: Add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice to the mashed avocado. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.

Prepare the Crackers: Place the crackers on a plate or a small cutting board.

Assemble: Spread the mashed avocado onto each cracker. You can spread it evenly or leave it slightly heaped.

Add Toppings: Sprinkle any optional toppings you like. For extra flavor, try a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or fresh herbs for added freshness.

Serve: Serve immediately as a quick and nutritious breakfast.

Tips

Choose Crackers Wisely: Opt for whole-grain or multigrain crackers to get more fiber and nutrients.

Avocado Ripeness: Make sure your avocado is ripe for the best flavor and creaminess.

Add Protein: If you want more protein, consider adding a hard-boiled egg on the side or topping the avocado with a few slices of turkey or ham.


Thursday - Basic Overnight Oats 

Rich in fiber, protein, carbs, and vitamins and minerals, oats are the ideal breakfast item. One cup of oatmeal provides eight grams of fiber, thirteen grams of protein, and minerals like iron, folate, and zinc that are necessary for healthy bodily functions.

According to a research that was published in the journal Nutritional Review, the type of fiber found in oats called beta-glucan lowers LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol and lowers the risk of cardiovascular illnesses. Additionally, it helps you control your overall calorie intake by preventing overeating and promoting a fullness sensation. Add a small amount of almond butter and dairy or soy milk to make it more nutritious. Simply avoid those that have extra sugar and artificial flavors.



Ingredients

  1/2 cup rolled oats

  1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond, soy, or oat milk)

  1 tablespoon chia seeds (for added fiber and omega-3s)

  1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)

1/4 cup fruit (fresh or dried, like berries, banana slices, or raisins)

Instructions

Combine Ingredients: In a jar or airtight container, mix the rolled oats, milk, chia seeds, honey or maple syrup (if using),

Mix and Refrigerate: Stir everything together to ensure the oats are well-coated with the liquid. Cover the container with a lid and refrigerate overnight (or for at least 4 hours).

Serve: In the morning, give the oats a good stir. You can enjoy them cold directly from the fridge or warm them up in the microwave for about 1 minute if preferred.

Add Fruit: Add the fruit top of that (if you like). You can use fresh fruit (like blueberries, strawberries, or apple chunks) or dried fruit (like raisins or dried cranberries).

Tips

Adjust Consistency: If you prefer your oats a bit thicker or thinner, adjust the amount of milk. For thicker oats, use less milk; for a creamier texture, add more.

Make in Batches: You can prepare several jars at once and store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making your mornings even easier.

Use a Jar: Mason jars or any airtight containers work well for overnight oats, making them easy to take on the go.


Friday - Smoothie Bowl

End your week on a high note with a smoothie bowl that's as nutritious as it is delicious! 

This smoothie bowl serves one and is the ideal choice if you're searching for a quick and flavorful breakfast that's also high in vitamins, fiber, and other nutrients. It's an uncomplicated way to kick start your day with a fresh, creamy blend that you can personalize to your desire.

This smoothie bowl is a delicious and healthy way to end your hectic week, whether you're running out the door or taking your time to enjoy breakfast. Are you prepared to mix up some morning magic?

Ingredients

  1 banana (frozen or fresh)

  1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)

  1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond or oat milk)

  1/2 cup frozen berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, or mixed berries)

  1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)

Toppings

  • Fresh fruit slices (banana, berries, kiwi, etc.)
  • Granola or nuts (almonds, walnuts)
  • Seeds (chia seeds, flaxseeds)
  • Shredded coconut or a drizzle of nut butter

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients: Peel and slice the banana if it's not already frozen. If using fresh, you can freeze it ahead of time for a thicker texture.

Blend the Smoothie: In a blender, combine the banana, Greek yogurt, milk, frozen berries, and honey or maple syrup if desired. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust the thickness by adding more milk if needed.

Assemble the Bowl: Pour the smoothie into a bowl.

Add Toppings: Arrange your choice of toppings on the smoothie bowl. Start with fresh fruit    slices, then add granola, seeds, nuts, and any other toppings you like.

Serve: Enjoy immediately for a refreshing and energizing breakfast.

Tips

Customize Your Bowl: Feel free to experiment with different fruits, seeds, and nuts based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Make It Sweeter: Adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or maple syrup, or use naturally sweet fruits like mango or peach.

Boost Nutrition: For an extra nutrient boost, blend in a handful of spinach or kale, which won’t alter the flavor much but will add vitamins and minerals.