Vanilla Spice Oatmeal

Ingredients

• 3 1/2 cups water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
• 2 cups old fashioned oats
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup walnut, coarsely chopped (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pinch nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar, plus more, to taste
• 1 cup low-fat milk, divided
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

1. 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. 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. 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.

4. 4

   Note: For a quicker version using quick cooking or plain instant oatmeal: Cook the oatmeal according to the directions on the package. Stir raisins, brown sugar, and nutmeg into the cooked oatmeal. Top with milk, nuts (toasted or un-toasted) and cinnamon.