Sometimes,I just stumble on good flavor combos

Last night, I thought, this would be a good night to have soaked oats for breakfast. It's very easy -- 3/4 cup raw oats, a sprinking of salt (about 1/8 teaspoon), and then seasoning and raw nuts or dried fruits as desired. I used 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and a sprinkling each of raw cashews and dried cherries, but just about any combo of seasoning, dried fruit, and raw nuts or seeds, would work just fine (depending on what you have available, and what tastes you prefer).

To this you add about 1/2 cup of water (although you could use juice). Let it soak overnight, then eat and enjoy. If you can't stomach the thought of eating it raw, you could warm it up in the microwave first.

Now, this is a great breakfast as is, but I chose to add about 2-3 tablespoons of coconut milk (I confess, it was canned). Something about adding a bit of creamy sweetness just made the cherry flavor come alive, and the cinnamon added a little soothing warmth to it. Very nice.

I must point out that this basic recipe (oats/salt/water) is extremely inexpensive, and provides plenty of fiber and a solid serving of whole grains for the day. The additions add expense, it's true, but wisely chosen, the expense can be minimal, and they can add a good nutritional boost, too. You could add fresh fruit in the morning as a topper, rather than dried fruit, too. Chopped fresh apple is good, especially in the fall. And you could also add some yogurt in the morning, instead of coconut milk, too.

Oh, and this is so very easy, too. Just takes a little planning the night before. Enjoy!