The Breakfast of the Leisurely
Tuesday, September 23rd, 2008All happiness depends on a leisurely breakfast. ~John Gunther
There is nothing worse than running late in the morning, hurrying and realizing that I have no time for breakfast. If my day starts out stressed – the rest of my day usually follows suit. Also, I know from experience that if I start out hungry – the hours afterwards are a waste.
The American Dietetic Association says that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. I know this. Yet breakfast is the only meal of the day I seemed to continually neglect.
Having a celiac disease or a food allergy means that planning meals is one of the most significant things you must do; and I do plan practically every one of my lunch and dinners hours ahead of time. Breakfast is the only meal that I neglect to religiously plan. It is not that I want to neglect it – it’s just that breakfast is the one meal that requires a unique type of planning, since it has to be planned the day ahead due to the chaotic nature of most of my weekday mornings.
The Answer: Arranging quick and easy breakfast items, some that can be eaten on the run if needed, which are also healthy, nutritious and doesn’t cost a bundle. Below I have listed some of my favorite breakfast options. Some are store bought, but others are prepared ahead of time in order to sneak a healthy breakfast into those crazy weekday mornings.
1.) Van’s Gluten Free Blueberry Waffles: (Gluten free & Dairy free) I love these. If I have time, I eat them “traditional style” heated with syrup, but I also eat them on the run heated and slathered with fresh blueberry jam.
2.) Lean on Me All Natural Quiches: (Gluten free, Soy Free, and Fish Free) This is an all time favorite to throw in my bag and eat once I get to my office. Microwavable in 2 minutes and eaten right from the carton it comes in make these quiches the perfect breakfast to be eaten at the office. They come in a few varieties, but my choice is Broccoli & Cheddar. At 130 calories this is a breakfast that you don’t feel guilty enjoying!
3.) Heaven Scent Natural Foods Crispy Rice & Marshmallow Bars: (Gluten free) Think Rice Crispy Treats! No artificial ingredients, no gelatin, no sodium, vegan and low fat make this treat rock. Perfect for running out the door and need a quick breakfast fix to hold you over until lunch.
4.) Recipes that are currently in the recipe sections that are make ahead favorites include:
– Make ahead Mini Portable Quiches (Gluten Free, Soy Free, Fish Free & Nut Free)
These no-crust quiches are like little portable omelets! Use your imagination and try different meats and veggies. Fast & economical breakfast “on the go”. Make these ahead of time and save precious morning minutes too!
– “You Pick The Trail” Mix (Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Soy Free, Fish Free & Nut Free) This is called “You Pick the Trail” Mix, since the recipe can be adapted to different allergens, preferences or tastes. Omit the nuts, oats, or flax seeds… add in pumpkin seeds, quinoa flakes, or ground flax seed. Get creative… and happy travels!