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These 5 healthy office breakfast ideas are mouthwateringly delicious and packed with nutrients, giving you an energy boost for the day.
When your alarm goes off for work, you’re often faced with a tough decision: get up now and have time for a healthy breakfast, or sleep for 10 more minutes and grab a pastry on the go?
If you find yourself choosing the latter, you’re not alone. 31 million Americans skip breakfast every day—and many of those that manage to scarf something down end up reaching for sugar and caffeine.
But there’s a better way—with a little planning ahead, you can hit snooze and get something good to eat!
Scrambling is for eggs, not mornings. Keep reading for five office breakfast ideas that will keep you energized at work, even if you’re rushing out the door!
1. Fast & Fancy Frittatas
Long a staple of pricey brunches across the country, frittatas are one of the many foods that we assume to be difficult because of how expensive they are at restaurants. But luckily, we know the chef’s secret: a great frittata only takes five minutes to prep and 15 to cook. And better yet, they keep well in the fridge, so you can make breakfast for the whole week in one go!
Start by whisking together 6 eggs, 1/2 cup of your milk of choice, and a dash of salt and pepper in a large bowl. Then, lightly cook whatever add-in ingredients make your heart sing and toss them in the egg mixture.
For a hearty, savory frittata, try diced potatoes, bacon, chives, and cheddar cheese. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, give chopped bell peppers, onions, spinach, and tomato a try with a crumble of feta on top. Or just use up whatever ingredients you have that are about to go bad—no shame, we’ve been there!
Next, pour the frittata mixture into a cast iron skillet and bake it at 350 degrees for 15 minutes, or until it’s thoroughly set. You can cut it into slices and keep it in the fridge. Then, warm it up before you leave or after you get to the office for a delicious brunch on the go—mimosas are optional.
2. Over-It Oats
Can’t be bothered to actually cook your oatmeal on the stove? Neither can we! That’s where overnight (or over-it) oats come in handy.
The base recipe is simple: start by putting 1/2 cup of rolled oatmeal (not quick oats) and a pinch of salt into a sealable container, like a jar or Tupperware. Then, add either 1 cup of your milk of choice or 1/2 cup milk plus 1/2 cup yogurt and sugar, honey, or maple syrup to taste. Stir it all together and set it in the fridge overnight, and it will be ready to take along and eat in the morning.
The best part about overnight oats is that they’re endlessly versatile! Mix in strawberries, strawberry yogurt, and a splash of vanilla for a strawberry shortcake flavor, or stir in a couple of tablespoons of your favorite nut butter and a bit of cocoa powder for a nutty, chocolatey treat. You can also try adding protein powder, flax meal, or chia seeds for an extra nutritional boost.
3. Slay-the-Day Parfait
A beautiful, protein-packed parfait is a healthy, delicious meal to grab on your way out the door. Just like overnight oats, you can make this recipe the evening before work and store it in a jar or other portable container to eat on the go.
Start with a base of plain or lightly sweetened greek yogurt. If you don’t eat dairy, yogurt made from coconut or soy milk is another great option. Scoop two or three spoonfuls into the bottom of your container to form the first layer.
On top of that, sprinkle in a layer of granola, slivered almonds, walnuts, or pecans. Add another layer of yogurt, and top the whole thing off with whatever fresh fruits or berries are in season. If you don’t have access to fresh fruits, frozen ones work as well—just make sure to assemble the parfait ahead of time so they have a chance to thaw, and you’ll be well on your way to slaying the workday!
4. 10 Second Smoothies
If you’re the kind of person that likes to sip your breakfast, these 10-second smoothies are the treat for you! They’re the perfect way to use up all that fruit you bought on sale before it goes bad.
All you have to do is wash and prep your favorite fresh fruits and greens, cutting them into small enough pieces to throw in a food processor. For a tropical morning boost, try a mix of pineapple, fresh coconut, honey, and lime. Or, to get all your daily antioxidants in one shot, add in blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, and spinach.
Pulse the mix in the food processor until smooth and pour it into an ice cube tray. Once the cubes are frozen, you can store them until you’re in need of a quick breakfast. Then, toss two or three of them in the blender with 1/2 cup of your liquid of choice (orange juice, coconut water, or your milk of choice are great options) and blend away!
5. “Chili” Freezer Burritos
Were you hoping to start your workday off with a bit of spice? These make-ahead breakfast burritos will do the trick. Make enough to last you a full week at a time and store them in the freezer so they’re always ready to go.
All you need to do is scramble a few eggs and cook up some of your favorite sausage, bacon, or vegan alternative. Then, chop and sautee a white or yellow onion, a green pepper, and a potato if desired. You can also use frozen hashbrowns or home fries, but consider getting ones that aren’t pre-seasoned so you can control your oil and sodium intake.
Next, lay out five flour tortillas and load them up with your cooked fillings. Sprinkle some of your favorite shredded cheese on top, give the filling a healthy drizzle of salsa or hot sauce, roll them up, and pop them in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat one, wrap it up in a damp paper towel and microwave for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
Which of These Healthy Office Breakfast Ideas Will You Try First?
Don’t fall into the morning trap of donuts and coffee any longer. These five nutritious and delicious office breakfast ideas will give you the fuel you need to kill it at work!
Looking for more healthy recipes to eat no matter what time of day it is? Check out these 10 summer foods that you should add to your diet.
