so this recipe has a lot to live up to with a title like that, right?but i swear it does.

the first time i had it {thanks jenny!}, i was so blown away that i launched into a full blown hunt for pumpkin.  in may.  i was unsuccessful in that hunt, but fortunately this oatmeal is versatile enough to be a fabulous canvas for any kind of addition, like peanut butter, fresh berries, a dollop of jam…

…but my favorite variation has a generous scoop of canned pumpkin stirred in & a sprinkling of white chocolate chips.

i love it, i love it, i love it, i. love. it. & usually make a big batch at the beginning of the week & heat up individual portions in the mornings.  it’s not much harder to make than that stuff in the envelope, but it is sooooo much better, not to mention healthier.

the perfect way to start the morning.  well this & coffee.  obviously.

makes 1 large serving

1/2 cup old fashioned oats
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup skim milk
1/2 banana, mashed
pinch of kosher salt
1 tablespoon vanilla
1 tablespoon ground flax
pumpkin, chocolate chips, fresh berries, nuts, peanut butter, etc. for topping

1. combine oats, water, milk, banana & salt in a medium saucepan over medium heat. cook until bubbling, stirring occasionally, until it reaches desired consistency.

2. remove from heat & stir in vanilla, flax & anything else you desire!

very slightly adapted from jennandtonica