Hot oatmeal is a great healthy breakfast

Makes 6 servings

3 cups water

3 cups of milk

3 cups of oatmeal (uncooked)

1/2 teaspoon salt

Additional toppings, to be divided among 6:

Cinnamon, ground ginger, cloves

3 apples, washed, cored and diced

3 bananas, peeled and sliced

1 cup raisins

1 cup flaked coconut

1 cup walnuts

1 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, apricots, your choice!)

6 teaspoons brown sugar

1. Combine oatmeal, milk and water in a saucepan, and bring to just short of boiling.

2. Reduce heat, and cook for five minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Serve in individual bowls with additional toppings, if desired.

4. Remember that these are garnishes; there should not be more topping than oatmeal.

Per serving (based on a serving with ½ of an apple, 1 tablespoon raisins and 1 teaspoon brown sugar): 394 calories, 8 grams of fat, 20 mg cholesterol, 250 mg sodium, 70 grams carbohydrates, 35 grams sugar, 7 grams dietary fiber, 12 grams protein.