Oatmeal, apple and carrots

🥣 Mediterranean Oatmeal with Apples and Carrots

Ingredients:

(Serves 2–3)

• 1 cup rolled oats

• 2 cups water (or half water, half milk of choice — almond, oat, or dairy)

• 1 medium apple, grated (keep the peel on for fiber)

• 1 medium carrot, grated

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter

• 1–2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom or nutmeg (optional)

• Pinch of salt

• 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (walnuts, pistachios, or almonds)

• 1 tablespoon raisins or chopped dates

• Greek yogurt (optional, for serving)

• Extra drizzle of olive oil or honey to finish

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Instructions:

1. Prep the ingredients:
   Grate the apple and carrot using a box grater. Set aside.

2. Cook the oats:
   In a medium saucepan, bring water (or water + milk) to a gentle boil.
   Add oats, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Add flavor and texture:
   Stir in grated apple, grated carrot, olive oil or butter, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt.
   Continue cooking for 5–7 minutes, until the mixture is creamy and the carrots are tender.

4. Sweeten and enrich:
   Stir in honey or maple syrup, nuts, and dried fruit.
   Taste and adjust sweetness or spices to your liking.

5. Serve:
   Spoon into bowls.
   Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt, extra chopped nuts, and a drizzle of olive oil or honey.

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Optional Mediterranean Twists:

• Add a spoon of tahini for creamy richness.

• Sprinkle with chia seeds or flaxseeds for fiber.

• Add a pinch of orange zest for a refreshing flavor.

• Replace water with almond milk or oat milk for a softer texture.

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Nutrition Highlights:

• Oats: Heart-healthy fiber.

• Carrots & Apples: Natural sweetness and antioxidants.

• Olive oil & nuts: Mediterranean healthy fats.

• Greek yogurt: Protein and probiotics.