Cozy oatmeal is a staple for many busy mornings when we want a stick-to-your-ribs breakfast that has some serious staying power. But depending on how you prep your oats, you can be left feeling those mid-morning hunger pangs shortly after brekkie if you aren't careful. Loading up on sugary toppings and not adding enough protein can leave you feeling less-than-satisfied.

With many of us going back to school or back to the office, starting the "most important meal of the day" with these Power-Packed Oats will load you up with some serious protein and fiber—two nutrients that help promote satiety.

The secret to making these oats so satisfying is the use of dairy milk and eggs during the prep. While many people make their oats with plain old water, using these secret weapons bumps the protein content up in a serious way.

Dairy milk specifically contains 8 grams of high-quality protein per cup along with energy-supporting nutrients like vitamin B12 and niacin, making it a perfect addition to these power-packed oats.

Topping these oats with Greek yogurt gives this dish even more quality protein and energy-supporting nutrients than dairy foods provide. And instead of adding spoonfuls of brown sugar, topping these oats with fresh fruit adds some sweetness with no added sugar. If you don't have cherries and apricots, try any fruit you have on hand.

Here's how to make it, and for even more healthy recipe ideas, check out our list of the 100 Easiest Recipes You Can Make.

This recipe is courtesy of Lauren Manaker MS, RDN, LD, CLEC, a member of our medical expert board. She is also the author of the cookbook The First Time Mom's Pregnancy Cookbook, where this and 74 other nutrient-packed recipes are featured.

Makes 2 servings

Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats
2 cups 2% milk
2 eggs, beaten
pinch salt
2 drops pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, separated
1/2 cup halved pitted cherries
2 apricots, pitted and quartered

How to Make It

In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, stir together oats, milk, eggs, vanilla, and salt and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low and simmer 5 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed, stirring occasionally to fully incorporate the eggs
Place equal servings of oats in two bowls. Top with Greek yogurt and fruit.