I always think of Halloween as the true start of the holiday season. After the costumes come off and the jack-o-lanterns blown out, the next two months seem to disappear in a blur. With parties to prepare for and events to attend, healthy eating can sometimes fall by the wayside. But instead of simply resigning to the idea, why not begin a few new healthy holiday traditions this year?

This easy oatmeal recipe is as tasty as it is healthy. Vitamins A and C from the pumpkin can help boost your immune system, fiber from the whole grain oats will keep you feeling full longer, and if you choose to add walnuts you’ll also get a dose of those all-important Omega 3′s.

Happy eating!

Pumpkin Oatmeal

1/2 c old fashioned oats

1 c water

1/4 c pumpkin (organic canned pumpkin works great)

1 tsp pumpkin pie spice

1 tsp brown sugar

walnuts or raisins if desired

-Combine in bowl and microwave 2-3 minutes.

Julie Lane, Treeswing School Liaison Volunteer