The healthy muesli recipe that will change your mornings

I spent six months in Switzerland my final year of high school, and since then muesli has had a permanent presence in my breakfast routine (a Swiss physician invented the classic meal). The healthy breakfast recipe, comprised of raw oats, nuts, seeds and/or dried fruit soaked in liquid (milk, yogurt or water), is filling, highly nutritious and most importantly, quick to make. If you're wondering, the difference between muesli and granola comes down to the fact that muesli is not cooked.

I soak my oats (avoid any instant oats) overnight to save time in the morning and make them (or any grain for that matter) more digestible. Soaking them also allows for better absorption of calcium, magnesium, iron and zinc by degrades phytic acid, the “anti-nutrient”, that's contained in the outer layer. Since phytic acid can block the absorption of these important nutrients, too much in our diet can lead to mineral deficiencies and poor bone density.

My version of muesli is dairy-free, using coconut milk instead of the traditional cow’s milk and yogurt. I also leave out the nuts, opting to add more seeds instead. It's also important to note that though oats are gluten free by nature, they're often cross contaminated with gluten, and therefore it's important to look for gluten-free oats if you have an allergy or sensitivity.

The best part about muesli is you can customize it to your taste and dietary needs. Try adding shredded apple or mashed banana, slivered almonds and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. I encourage you to take my base and go wild with experimentation!

Related: Carrot cake oatmeal recipe

Health benefits
Oats: Oats are a great source of soluble fibre that help reduce cholesterol in the body. They're a high source of manganese contributing to bone health and the high fibre content ensures your blood sugar doesn't spike.

Coconut milk: I choose this non-dairy alternative because it adds a naturally sweet and rich flavour, plus it contains all the naturally amazing benefits of coconut. Coconut contains lauric acid which is a natural antibacterial and antiviral.

Coconut milk can get a bad rap for its high saturated-fat content, but it's important to understand that this plant-based fat consists of medium-chain saturated fatty acids that are burned easily by the body and has been shown to lower cholesterol in rats. This ultimately helps you maintain your weight instead of making you gain more.

Chia seeds: These little seeds are loaded with nutrients. Chia is a high source of omega-3s, the essential fatty acid that's been shown to improve digestion, hair and skin health, mood, heart health and brain function. They're full of protein and calcium too, making me wonder why we don’t throw these seeds on everything.

Hemp hearts: Hemp hearts are full of protein and full of vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant. They're also anti-inflammatory and keep you full for longer periods of time.

Currants: I use currant to add a bit of natural sweetness, but they actually also add a surprising amount a protein (six grams per cup for Zante currants). Full of the protective antioxidant vitamin C, currants can play a role in the health or our skin, hair and hearts.

Pumpkin seeds: Ever since I found out the amazing nutrient profile of pumpkin seeds (more on that here), I'm never without a jar. Pumpkin seeds are full of vegetarian protein, omega-3s and zinc, which has a large impact on our immune function and well as in the prevention of osteoporosis.

Ingredients (Makes 4 servings) 2 cups of oats (gluten-free) 3 cups of unsweetened coconut milk, or non-dairy milk of your choice (I choose So Delicious) 2 tbsp chia seeds 2 tbsp hemp hearts 1/3 cup currants ½ cup pumpkin seeds 2 tbsp unsweetened coconut flakes A squeeze of fresh lemon (to create a slightly acidic environment needed to help break down the phytic acid)

Directions 1. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.

2. Refrigerate overnight.

3. In the morning top with fresh fruit, nuts, seeds or any other superfood you have on hand. My favourite is raw cacao, more coconut flakes and sliced banana.

Nutrition (per serving)

calories

280

protein

9 g

carbohydrates

32 g

fat

15 g

fibre

6 g

sodium

12 mg

sugar

8 g

Tara Miller is a Toronto-based holistic nutritionist. Her educational background is from The Institute of Holistic Nutrition combined with a degree in psychology from the University of Guelph. This combination allows Tara to address the challenges individuals face when it comes to everyday healthy living. Tara is also the owner of the Health Hut Boutique in Muskoka where she offers effective and toxic-free beauty, household and specialty food items. You can follow her blog for holistic recipes and tips at taramillernutrition.com. More: 5 natural ways to increase your serotonin levels How to manage your estrogen levels 5 unexpected health benefits of orgasms