Healthy Eating

20 Healthy Breakfast Ideas For A Healthier Start To Your Day

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A good breakfast is enough to make many of us sprint out of our beds. However, we often struggle with making a tasty breakfast that is healthy and easy to make. With the goal of solving this everyday problem, we went out on a hunt to find some of the healthiest breakfast options so that you won't have to spend a good chunk of your morning wondering what to eat.

Below, you'll find 20 healthy breakfast ideas that range from the good ol' eggs to protein-packed dishes for you to start your mornings right.

1. Overnight Steel Cut Oats

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Steel-cut oats are a type of oatmeal that is minimally processed and retains more of its natural nutrients compared to other varieties. These oats are made by cutting whole oat groats into smaller pieces which are then soaked overnight. In order to make it exciting and flavorful, there are countless steel cut oats topping ideas for you to pair with your steel-cut oats.

Because you can keep these oats in the fridge for up to 5 days, they are a great way to meal prep for your weekday breakfast.

2. Greek Yogurt Parfait

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The Greek Yogurt Parfait has the creamy richness of Greek yogurt along with the vibrant freshness of fruits and the crunch of granola. This breakfast treat begins with a generous layer of velvety Greek yogurt. The yogurt provides a satisfying base that complements the sweet and tart notes of the fresh berries added in colorful layers.

The parfait's texture gets an upgrade with the addition of granola, introducing a certain crunch and a hint of nuttiness. It's a delightful way to kickstart your day with a burst of energy and flavor.

3. Avocado Toast

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Avocado Toast is THE millennial breakfast. It took the culinary world by storm with its simple yet satisfying combination of creamy avocado on toasted bread. This breakfast marvel starts with a slice of hearty, whole-grain bread toasted to golden perfection.

Mashed or thinly sliced ripe avocado is generously spread over the warm toast, creating a velvety canvas ready to be adorned with a variety of toppings. A sprinkle of sea salt and black pepper enhances the avocado's natural richness while adding a burst of flavor. Many enthusiasts customize their Avocado Toast with additional toppings like red pepper flakes, a drizzle of olive oil, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a zesty kick.

4. Smoothie Bowl

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A smoothie bowl provides a nutritious twist on the traditional smoothie by adding an element of texture and variety to your morning routine. This health-conscious trend involves blending a thick and creamy smoothie base, often made with a combination of fruits, vegetables, and a liquid like almond milk or yogurt. Quite different from the traditional smoothie, the mixture is placed in a bowl and adorned with an artful arrangement of toppings that turn it into an Instagrammable dish.

Common toppings include fresh berries, sliced bananas, granola, chia seeds, shredded coconut, and a drizzle of honey or nut butter.

5. Egg Muffins

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If you're on the hunt for a convenient breakfast option that combines the simplicity of scrambled eggs with the portability of a muffin, egg muffins are the way to go. These are made by whisking eggs and pouring the mixture into muffin tins along with various ingredients like diced vegetables, cheese, and cooked meats.

The beauty of egg muffins lies in their adaptability – you can customize them to suit your taste preferences or use leftover ingredients in your fridge. If you prefer sweet breakfast in the morning, you can also choose a variation from our list of delicious muffin recipes.

6. Green Shakshuka

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Shakshuka is a quintessential breakfast dish that brings a punch of flavor early in the morning. Among many Shakshuka variations, green shakshuka is one of the healthier options.

Instead of the traditional tomato-based sauce, this is made with a lush green medley of spinach, kale, and fresh herbs. On top of the sauce are poached eggs with runny yolks seamlessly blending in with the mixture. Finally, top it off with some feta cheese as you serve it with crusty bread or pita.

7. Breakfast Tostadas

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Breakfast tostadas are for a fiesta of flavors at the morning table. This South-of-the-Border delight has crispy corn tortillas topped with creamy refried beans, perfectly cooked eggs, and a variety of toppings to choose from.

Salsa fresca, with its diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and a kick of jalapeños, adds a burst of freshness. Avocado slices bring a creamy texture, while crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheddar contributes a savory richness.

8. Protein-Packed Breakfast Wrap

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A breakfast wrap is a great option for individuals who prefer an on-the-go breakfast for their busy lifestyle. The dish begins with a whole-grain tortilla which is generously filled with a scrumptious blend of protein-rich ingredients. Scrambled eggs, vibrant veggies and a sprinkle of cheese make this wrap filled with vitamins and minerals.

Some variations may feature lean proteins like turkey or chicken, enhancing the wrap's protein content without compromising on taste.

9. Salmon and Cream Cheese Bagel

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Salmon and Cream Cheese is a classic combination on a bagel. Even though there are several bagel recipes to choose from, this version stands out due to its nutrition content. The ensemble begins with a toasted or fresh bagel generously smeared with rich, creamy cream cheese

What takes this breakfast to the next level is the addition of smoked salmon, thinly sliced and draped over the cream cheese. The smoked salmon contributes a luxurious, briny flavor and a delicate, flaky texture that perfectly complements the creaminess of the cheese. Together, they create a harmonious marriage of tastes, textures, and contrasts.

10. Breakfast Burrito

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A Breakfast Burrito is a morning marvel, wrapping together a delicious fusion of flavors and textures in a portable package. At its heart, this breakfast delight typically features a warm tortilla cradling a medley of scrambled eggs, and savory meats like bacon or sausage, and is often accompanied by ingredients like melted cheese, diced tomatoes, and creamy avocado. 

You can further customize the burrito by adding a southwestern flair with ingredients like black beans, salsa, and jalapeños. Some enthusiasts might opt for a healthier twist, subbing in egg whites or adding a heap of fresh veggies.

11. Tofu Scramble

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Tofu scramble is a plant-based breakfast for health-conscious individuals. Made from crumbled tofu sautéed with an array of seasonings and vegetables, tofu scramble has become a staple in vegan and vegetarian kitchens.

To create a delicious tofu scramble, extra-firm tofu is typically pressed to remove excess water, crumbled, and then cooked with ingredients like turmeric, nutritional yeast, garlic, onions, and a variety of veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or tomatoes. You can either serve this on its own or add it as a filling for breakfast burritos.

12. Chia Seed Pudding

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Similar to a smoothie bowl or a yogurt parfait, chia seed pudding is a thick and creamy breakfast dish where tiny chia seeds undergo a magical transformation, absorbing the liquid and creating a pudding-like texture. In addition to the luscious texture, the dish also features various flavors and toppings.

It serves as a blank canvas for culinary creativity, allowing individuals to customize their pudding with fruits, nuts, seeds, or sweeteners of their choice. The pudding itself has a subtle nutty flavor, and when paired with the sweetness of fruits or a drizzle of honey, it becomes a treat.

13. Whole Grain Pancakes

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Crafted from a blend of whole-grain flour, these pancakes are rich in fiber, providing a sustained release of energy that keeps you fueled throughout the morning. Unlike their refined flour counterparts, whole grain pancakes boast a nuttier flavor profile and a denser texture, adding a delightful rustic element to each bite.

Beyond their delicious taste, these pancakes pack a nutritional punch, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. They offer a guilt-free indulgence that caters to both your taste buds and your well-being. Also, check out our list of vegan pancake recipes if you have a plant-based lifestyle.

14. Quinoa Breakfast Bowl

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Who doesn't love a good breakfast bowl? Packed with protein, fiber, and a host of essential nutrients, this bowl is definitely the most wholesome way to start your day. 

Cooked quinoa serves as the hearty base but the bowl comes alive with a vibrant assortment of toppings, allowing for endless customization. Fresh berries add a burst of sweetness and antioxidants, while sliced bananas contribute potassium and natural energy. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup enhances the sweetness naturally, elevating the dish. For added crunch and healthy fats, a sprinkle of nuts or seeds such as almonds, chia seeds, or pumpkin seeds is the perfect finishing touch.

15. Egg and Veggie Breakfast Quesadilla

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The Egg and Veggie Breakfast Quesadilla is a flavorful and satisfying morning treat that fuses the goodness of protein-packed eggs with a vibrant medley of sautéed vegetables, all enveloped in a warm, whole-grain tortilla. To craft this culinary masterpiece, scrambled eggs are mixed in with a colorful mix of bell peppers, onions, and spinach.

A sprinkle of cheese adds a touch of creaminess, sealing the deal on this delightful morning package. Quick to prepare and bursting with wholesome goodness, this quesadilla is a go-to option for busy mornings.

16. Ham & Cheese Egg Cups

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This one is for those who like their breakfast to look cute before they bite into them. In simple words, this dish is like a personalized omelet in a cup. It offers a convenient and portable way to enjoy a protein-packed morning meal.

To create these savory cups, thin slices of ham are used to line muffin tins. A crack of an egg is gently placed into each ham-lined cup, and then comes the creative part—sprinkling a generous helping of grated cheese on top. As these cups bake in the oven, the ham becomes slightly crispy around the edges, while the egg inside cooks, leaving the yolk creamy and the whites set.

17. Oatmeal Cookies

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Oatmeal cookies are the unsung heroes of the cookie jar. These delectable treats boast a chewy texture and a heartiness that sets them apart in the cookie realm. The star ingredient, oats, not only contributes a robust and nutty flavor but also infuses the cookies with a chewiness.

A classic oatmeal cookie recipe typically includes a blend of rolled oats, butter, sugar, eggs, and flour, accented by aromatic cinnamon and a touch of vanilla. The result is a cookie that strikes the perfect balance between sweet indulgence and rustic simplicity.

18. Paleo Waffles

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These waffles are crafted without traditional wheat flour, dairy, or refined sugars, aligning with the principles of the Paleolithic diet. Instead, paleo waffle recipes often use alternative flours like almond flour or coconut flour, for the hearty texture while remaining gluten-free.

In place of conventional dairy, paleo waffles incorporate non-dairy alternatives like almond milk or coconut milk, contributing to a light and moist interior. Sweeteners such as honey or maple syrup replace refined sugars, imparting a natural sweetness that complements the nutty flavors.

19. Air Fryer Sweet Potato Hash

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Air Fryer Sweet Potato Hash is a game-changer for breakfast enthusiasts. This dish takes the natural sweetness and earthy notes of sweet potatoes and transforms them into a crispy, golden delight.

To prepare this hash, sweet potatoes are diced into bite-sized pieces and tossed with colorful bell peppers, onions, and a drizzle of olive oil. The air fryer works its charm, crisping up the exterior while keeping the insides tender. This results in a harmonious blend of caramelized sweetness from the sweet potatoes and a savory kick from the peppers and onions.

20. Chocolate Keto Protein Shake

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This protein-packed drink features a blend of unsweetened almond or coconut milk as a base. The star ingredient, however, is the chocolate-flavored keto-friendly protein powder. In the world of countless milkshake recipes, this one helps keep the carb count in check while also providing a decadent taste. 

Beyond its delectable flavor, the Chocolate Keto Protein Shake serves as a convenient and quick option for those on the go. Whether as a post-workout replenishment or a morning pick-me-up, the shake delivers a dose of quality protein, promoting satiety and supporting muscle recovery.