I don’t know about you, but it’s time for me to shed my winter “buffer”.

With shorts-season upon us and the lovely weather in tow, my nose is being becoming increasingly well-acquainted with the grindstone.

With that said, my body just underwent a physical and emotional massacre at the gym. And, as I sit here contemplating never leaving the couch ever again, my wonderful other half is in the kitchen, whipping up a salad full of secret surprises.

As delish as salads can be, sometimes a warm bowl of something comforting is just the ticket. But what if this comforting dish could also be healthy? Ohhh, it’s possible.

This banana-nut cereal is made up of good-for-you ingredients, but is just tasty enough to fool me into believing that I’m being tricksy.

Perfect.

Banana-Nut Cereal

Adapted from allrecipes

Ingredients
1/4 cup water
1/4 cup skim milk
1 tablespoon quinoa
1 small banana, sliced
1 1/2 tablespoons rolled oats
1 tablespoon flaxseed
1 pinch salt
1 pinch ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon chopped walnuts
1 teaspoon brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions
1. Stir the water, milk, and quinoa together in a saucepan; bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer 5 minutes, or until the quinoa begins to soften.
2. Stir in half of the banana, the rolled oats, flax, salt, and cinnamon. Cook, stirring frequently over low heat for 2 to 5 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
3. Remove from the heat and stir in the walnuts, brown sugar, and vanilla. Top with the remaining banana slices.
**Serves one.

Don’t be deceived by the small portion. It is built to satisfy and to sustain. This little guy’s the world feather-weight champion.