Cherry Steel Cut Oats

Happy Father's Day! I whipped up a batch of steel cut oats this morning. I never make steel cut oats during the week because of how long they take to make but when you have a little extra time it's definitely worth it. Oatmeal is one of those breakfasts that really stick with you, high in heart healthy fiber and a decent source of protein. Not to mention they are versatile. You can add so many different "toppings" to change the flavor up, you can even make them savory. Also, it's very easy so serve a crowd with different taste buds. You can make 1 huge pot of oats and then have a "mix-ins" bar out with nuts, dried fruit, nut butter, yogurt, etc. GIve it a try!

Cherry Vanilla Oatmeal
-1 cup steel cut oats
-4 cups water (per directions on container)
-2 cups pitted sweet cherries (remember, go organic here, they are on the dirty dozen)
-1 tsp vanilla extract
-1/3 cup brown sugar
-1 banana
-1/4 cup chopped walnuts

Start by cooking the steel cut oats as directed on the box. Then after they have started to form and get thicker add in your cherries and banana. Mix it all together and let it continue to simmer. Once the oats are formed and to the consistency you like add the sugar, walnuts, and vanilla extract. Let it sit just a bit longer on low heat and serve. Steel cut oats aren't difficult to make they are just time consuming.

I added a touch of milk right before serving to loosen it up. I also topped it with plain greek yogurt and honey (because greek yogurt rocks!).