Save to Pinterest A hearty, visually appealing breakfast twist on classic oatmeal featuring creamy oats, sautéed spinach, and a silky poached egg. Nutritious, budget-friendly, and satisfying.
When I first tried oatmeal in a savoury style, I was amazed at how well it pairs with greens and a runny egg. Now this colourful bowl is my go-to when I want a quick and comforting vegetarian breakfast.
Ingredients
- Rolled oats: 1 cup
- Water: 2 cups (or substitute half water, half milk for extra creaminess)
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, freshly ground
- Olive oil: 2 teaspoons
- Fresh spinach: 2 cups, washed and roughly chopped
- Garlic: 1 small clove, minced
- Eggs: 2 large
- White vinegar: 1 tablespoon (for poaching water)
- Grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast: 1 tablespoon (optional)
- Ground black pepper: To taste
- Red pepper flakes or chili oil: Pinch, optional
Instructions
- Cook the oatmeal:
- Combine oats, water, salt, and black pepper in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until creamy (6 to 8 minutes).
- Sauté the spinach:
- While the oatmeal cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add spinach and cook, stirring, until wilted (about 1 to 2 minutes). Remove from heat.
- Poach the eggs:
- Fill a medium saucepan with 2 to 3 inches of water. Add vinegar and bring to a gentle simmer. Crack each egg into a small cup. Swirl the water and gently slide in the eggs. Poach for 3 to 4 minutes, or until whites set but yolks stay runny. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain briefly on paper towels.
- Assemble the bowls:
- Divide oatmeal between two bowls. Top each with sautéed spinach and a poached egg. Sprinkle with Parmesan or nutritional yeast, extra pepper, and chili flakes if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately while warm.
Save to Pinterest My family enjoys this savoury oatmeal on weekends, especially when we add extra veggies or herbs from our garden. It is a breakfast everyone can personalize for their taste.
Required Tools
You will need a saucepan for the oatmeal, a skillet for the greens, a slotted spoon for egg poaching, and small bowls for serving.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains eggs and milk (if using dairy milk or Parmesan). For a dairy-free bowl, opt for plant milk and nutritional yeast; always check ingredient labels if you have allergies.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Each serving provides roughly 285 calories, 10 g total fat, 37 g carbohydrates, and 14 g protein.
Save to Pinterest This oatmeal is a nourishing way to start your day. Make it your own by adding favourite vegetables or toppings.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I achieve creamy oats?
Simmer rolled oats gently in water or a milk blend, stirring occasionally until the mixture thickens and reaches a soft, creamy texture, about 6–8 minutes.
- → What’s the best way to sauté spinach without overcooking?
Heat olive oil over medium heat, add minced garlic until fragrant, then toss in fresh spinach and stir just until wilted, roughly 1–2 minutes.
- → How can I make perfect poached eggs every time?
Bring a pot of simmering water with a splash of vinegar to a gentle swirl, slide in fresh eggs one at a time, and cook for 3–4 minutes for set whites and runny yolks.
- → What are good garnishes to complement the dish?
Sprinkle grated Parmesan, nutritional yeast, freshly ground black pepper, or chili flakes to enhance flavors and add a subtle kick.
- → Can I customize the greens used in this dish?
Yes, kale or Swiss chard can be great substitutes for spinach, offering different textures and flavors while maintaining nutrition.