September: The Season of Oats

As the leaves begin to turn vibrant shades of orange and the crisp breeze of autumn touches the air, it's the perfect time to cozy up with comforting and nourishing foods. In honor of it being September 1st, I wanted to share a creative and seasonally delicious recipe that promote both our health and taste buds. Join WTHN's first Fall post of simple yet delectable apple cinnamon oatmeal that embraces the flavors of the season while providing a nutritional boost to kickstart your day!

Ingredients:

- 1 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if preferred)

- 2 cups almond milk (or any milk of your choice)

- 1 medium apple, diced

- 1/4 cup chopped pecans

- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (adjust to taste)

- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (or just however much your heart desires!)

- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

- A pinch of salt

- Optional toppings: additional chopped pecans, sliced apples, a drizzle of honey, or nut butter

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Apples:

Start by heating a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the diced apples, a splash of water, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Sauté the apples until they become tender and slightly caramelized, about 4-5 minutes. Set aside.

2. Cook the Oats:

In a saucepan, bring the almond milk to a gentle simmer. Stir in the rolled oats and reduce the heat to low. Allow the oats to cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they reach your desired consistency.

3. Add Flavor and Sweetness:

Once the oats are creamy and cooked, stir in the sautéed apples and chopped pecans. Drizzle in the maple syrup and give everything a good mix. Adjust the sweetness according to your taste preferences.

4. Serve and Garnish:

Transfer the spiced apple and pecan oatmeal to serving bowls. Feel free to get creative with your toppings – add more chopped pecans for crunch, arrange some thinly sliced apples on top for freshness, or drizzle a bit of honey for an extra touch of sweetness. A sprinkle of cinnamon not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the fall flavors.

5. Enjoy Your Fall-Inspired Oatmeal:

Find a cozy spot to savor every spoonful of this wholesome fall-inspired oatmeal. Not only will it warm your soul on chilly mornings, but it also provides a balanced mix of complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and natural sugars to fuel your day.

Benefits:

• Seasonal Goodness: Apples and pecans are abundant during the fall season, making this oatmeal a great way to enjoy fresh and local produce.

• Fiber-Rich: Oats are an excellent source of soluble fiber, which supports digestion, heart health, and helps maintain steady energy levels.

• Heart-Healthy Fats: Pecans offer healthy monounsaturated fats that are good for heart health.

• Natural Sweetness: The natural sugars in apples and a touch of maple syrup provide a sweet taste without relying on refined sugars.

Embrace the charm of September by incorporating the flavors of fall into your breakfast routine. This spiced apple and pecan oatmeal not only warms your body but also nourishes your soul with every bite! As a runner, I love a hearty bowl of oats to fuel me after workouts, and this recipe definitely makes the cut! Whether you're an oatmeal enthusiast or simply seeking a nutritious and delicious way to start your day, this recipe is sure to become a beloved addition to your fall recipe collection.