Waking up to a good meal can offer a boost of energy during the darker days of winter, so it's worth the effort to prepare something tasty and nutritious. All of these dishes are both of those — and many, such as Classic, Crunchy Granola and Spiced Carrot Bran Muffins, can be made ahead of time to help you avoid a mad dash in the morning.

Eating a healthy, hearty breakfast can boost your energy throughout the day. — StockFood/Getty Images
1. Classic, Crunchy Granola by Nava Atlas
This super-simple granola can last up to two months when stored properly. Add your favorite dried fruit and enjoy it alone or with yogurt.
Per serving: 359 calories, 15g fat, 48g carbohydrates, 13g protein, 7.8g fiber
2. Pastel Omelet With Shitake Mushrooms, Goat Cheese and Fresh Herbs by Michel Nischan and Mary Goodbody
Whip up this healthy omelet for a protein-packed breakfast or brunch, seasoned with your choice of fresh parsley, thyme or chives.
Per serving: 261 calories, 5g saturated fat, 9g carbohydrates, 20g protein, 3g fiber
3. Spiced Carrot Bran Muffins by Esther Brody
These flavorful low-fat muffins are easy to prepare, using bran cereal, and have a short bake time of only 15 to 20 minutes.
Per serving: 117 calories, 1g saturated fat, 18g carbohydrates, 3g protein, 2g fiber
4. Spinach Quiche by Dave Lieberman and Anahad O'Connor
Quiche makes a wonderful meal any time of day, but it's a real treat for breakfast. This recipe includes a whole wheat crust, and relies on spinach — but you can add your own favorite veggies.
Per serving: 326 calories, 4g saturated fat, 26g carbohydrates, 13g protein, 5g fiber
5. Citrus Fruit Salad by Victoria Blashford-Snell and Brigitte Hafner
A light medley of citrus fruits — at their peak in winter — makes this a refreshing dish. Pair it with whole wheat toast or eggs for a more filling breakfast.
Per serving: 137 calories, 0g saturated fat, 35g carbohydrates, 3g protein, 6g fiber
6. Breakfast Burrito by Hope Ricciotti and Vincent Connelly
This versatile burrito is delicious, stuffed with eggs, tomatoes and avocados (along with anything else that appeals to you).
Per serving: 357 calories, 8g saturated fat, 23g carbohydrates, 18g protein, 5g fiber
7. Insanely Healthy Nuggets by Karen Solomon
Yes, this recipe is more involved, but the rolled-oats-based cereal will last up to three months in the refrigerator — so you can always prepare it in bulk and take your time enjoying it with fruit, yogurt or milk.
Per serving: 293 calories, 3g saturated fat, 43g carbohydrates, 8g protein, 6g fiber
Also of Interest
- Want to lose weight fast?
- 9 common little ailments that drive you crazy
- Join AARP in the fight to end hunger
Go to the AARP home page for latest news on food and nutrition
Topic Alerts
You can get weekly email alerts on the topics below. Just click “Follow.”
Manage AlertsProcessing
Please wait...









Tell Us WhatYou Think
Please leave your comment below.
You must be signed in to comment.
Sign In | RegisterMore comments »