Blackberry Oatmeal with Toasted Coconut Flakes

This breakfast had no intention of making it to the blog. But after creating it and seeing it come to life, hitting the Internet was inevitable. I mean, gorgeous, right?! Its vibrance reminds me of the Quinoa Beet Tabbouleh I made over the summer. Colorful foods, in nature, are ones I want to eat. Kind of like colorful conversations. Those are the ones I most want to have.

Speaking of, will you all help me get a conversation going on FFF’s Facebook page? My Internet marketing skills are failing. Oh no, the world is going to end. But really, I just get (entirely too) excited when something turns out great in the kitchen and I can share it with all of you. It’d be great to eventually build more of a community. Ya feel me? One day.

Anyway, back to this oatmeal. It’s really a simple recipe that plays off of the natural beauty of blackberries. I’ve been loving coconut flakes lately, and in their toasted form they really add a satisfying form of crunch. Toast up the walnuts too if you want for an extra cozy breakfast.

Blackberry Oatmeal with Toasted Coconut

Yield: 2 bowls

Ingredients

-1 cup of old fashioned rolled oats
-1/2 cup blackberries, fresh or frozen
-2 Tbsp. / handful of walnuts, chopped
-1/4 cup coconut flakes (not shreds!)
-Cinnamon, optional
-Honey, to taste
-Salt, to taste

Instructions

Over medium heat, place oats in a pan with 2 cups of water, and cover. Bring to a medium-high simmer, and then reduce heat to a low simmer. Let cook for 5 minutes, and then add blackberries. Let cook another 5 minutes, or until oatmeal is creamy and water is absorbed.
Meanwhile, add a little bit of butter or oil to a small skillet over medium-high heat. Add coconut flakes, and stir continuously until edges start to brown. It will only take a minute or two.
Divide oatmeal between two bowls, and top with walnuts, honey and cinnamon, if desired. Season with salt, and then sprinkle coconut flakes on top.
*Note: You will have extra coconut flakes, but it's easier to make them in a slightly larger batch. Place in an airtight container and save for later use.

http://foodfitnessfreshair.com/2013/12/08/blackberry-oatmeal-with-toasted-coconut-flakes/