Delicious, Healthy Do it Yourself Oatmeal Flavors

Oatmeal is an inexpensive and healthy dish for breakfast or any time of day. Cheap and fiber-rich, oatmeal is a great supporting character for a number of healthy additions. For the best flavor and texture, choose steel-cut oats and put them on a slow simmer in the morning before hopping in the shower. If you're in a hurry, regular rolled oats make oatmeal that is far tastier than quick cooking or instant, with less of that dreaded pasty texture. Any of these recipes can be further enhanced with a tablespoon of freshly ground flaxseed which adds omega-3 fats, fiber, and a pleasant nutty taste.

Apple Spice Oatmeal

For a fabulous apple-flavored oatmeal substitute apple cider for the water when cooking the oatmeal. A half teaspoon of cinnamon adds antioxidant punch and sweet flavor. Add a diced apple just before cooking is done. This oatmeal is sweet enough that it won't need any sugar.

Fruity Calcium-Rich Oatmeal

A healthy treat and great for pregnant women or nursing mothers. Prepare the oatmeal substituting milk for the water, and adding ¼ cup extra water. Add ¼ cup of raisins and ¼ cup of craisins when adding the oats to the water-milk mixture. The dried fruit will absorb the extra water during the cooking. Pump up the calcium and fiber even more by adding ¼ cup of dry roasted skin-on almonds just before serving. The vitamin C in the craisins will help with calcium absorption and the protein in this delicious oatmeal will last until lunchtime.

Very Berry Oatmeal

Cook oatmeal according to package directions. Just before serving add ¼ cup frozen or fresh blueberries, and ¼ cup dried cherries. Simmer for a minute to heat the fruit through and serve this antioxidant-rich combination.

Maple Walnut Oatmeal

Walnuts, one of the healthiest nuts available, provide protein and healthy fat. Sprinkle ¼ cup of walnuts on top of the oatmeal once it's cooked and drizzle with a tablespoon of maple syrup. For even more maple taste with no calories, add a few drops of maple flavoring to the oatmeal as it cooks.

Gingerbread Oatmeal

For a blast of flavor and iron, add a tablespoon of blackstrap molasses, ½ teaspoon of cinnamon and ½ teaspoon of ginger. This dish is not for the faint of heart or taste buds, but will warm from the inside out.

Peachy Keen Oatmeal

Prepare oatmeal with milk or almond milk. Add ½ cup diced fresh or frozen peaches, ½ teaspoon cinnamon and a dash of nutmeg at the end of the cooking time. Peaches and cream, yum!