vanilla spice oatmeal

This is a delicious and healthy way to start the day.

Ingredients

3 1/2 cups water
1/4 tsp. salt, optional
2 cups old-fashioned oats
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup walnuts, coarsely chopped (you could also use pecans)
1/4 tsp. vanilla extract
Pinch of nutmeg
2 tbsp. dark brown sugar, plus more, to taste
1 cup low-fat milk, divided
1/8 tsp. ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water and salt to a boil. Stir in the oats and raisins, reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, uncovered, for 5 minutes.
2. In the meantime, place nuts, if using, in a dry skillet over a medium-high flame, and toast, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Set aside.
3. When the oats are cooked remove pan from the flame and stir in the vanilla and nutmeg. Swirl in the brown sugar and place the oatmeal in serving bowls. Pour 1/4 cup of milk on top of each bowl, and top with toasted nuts and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

*Adapted from Ellie Krieger