Brighten Your Brunch With 20 Rejuvenating Recipes

By , SparkPeople Blogger
Most people are raised on the traditional “three square meals” philosophy of eating. There’s breakfast, lunch and dinner—in that order, and each at its own fairly fixed time. But some people—particularly those who are not typically hungry right when they wake up, who are practicing intermittent fasting or simply don’t have time to eat in the mornings—prefer to eat their first meal a little later than most. And, of course, there are those lovely weekend mornings when you have the luxury of sleeping in and then enjoying a leisurely meal somewhere in that relaxed, slow-paced window between breakfast and lunch.
 
Which brings us to brunch.
 
The word alone is enough to conjure mouth-watering images of stocked buffet tables and “all you can eat” menus—but the breakfast/lunch hybrid doesn’t have to require ditching your diet in favor of high-fat, salt-saturated and sugar-laden dishes. Next time you find yourself hunting for a not-quite-midday meal idea, try one of these simple brunch recipes. Designed to highlight fresh produce, they’re not only a pleasure for the palate, but also give your body the fuel it needs to stay motivated and productive all afternoon.
 
Crispy Yogurt and Berry Parfaits: Traditional marshmallow-cereal treats are revamped with whole-grain, fiber-rich cereal, then layered with fruit and yogurt.




Crab and Asparagus Crepes: Who needs a fancy restaurant? You can make this springtime dish in your own kitchen in mere minutes.






Bacon-Cheddar Breakfast Muffins: These low-calorie muffins make a great grab-and-go breakfast, brunch or snack.




Low-Sodium Breakfast Sausage: This lower-sodium version of breakfast sausage has 25 percent less fat and a tenth of the sodium.




Balsamic Strawberries with Ricotta Cream: Strawberries are combined with tangy and sweet balsamic vinegar and creamy ricotta in this quick and simple dessert.




Mushroom “Sausage” Gravy: This healthier version features a secret ingredient. Pair it with our Whole-Wheat Buttermilk Biscuits.




Spinach Brunch Bake: This crustless quiche is a delicious low-carb option.





Light Lemon Blueberry Donuts: These baked donuts are bursting with fruit and flavor, not fat!




Perfect Boiled Eggs: They are simmered gently and then steeped to keep them tender, not rubbery.




Baked Grapefruit with Honey and Pistachios: Sweeten up your morning grapefruit by baking it.




Coach Nicole's Mini Vegetable Frittatas: Make this dish ahead of time and then refrigerate for a quick, protein-packed breakfast that's also portion-controlled.




Spring Vegetables and Tomato Spring Pasta: This light, lemon-infused pasta dish can be served warm or cold.




Salad with Blue Cheese and Fruit: A light and refreshing addition to any breakfast buffet.




Fruit Kabobs with Coconut Yogurt Dip: These super simple snacks or side dishes add instant brightness to the brunch table.




Salmon Cakes: These delicious patties are a healthy alternative to burgers.




Fancy Brunch Potatoes with Asparagus: Prepare two servings for a full breakfast, or omit the eggs and serve as a side.




Grilled Strawberry & Cream Pita: This light and refreshing dessert is the perfect way to finish off a satisfying brunch.




Traditional French Crepes: Thinner than pancakes, they’re easy to make and fun to eat. Pair them with our Homemade Ricotta Cheese or Greek yogurt and fresh strawberries.




Super Speedy Sausage Rolls: Made with low-sodium breakfast sausage, these quick and easy rolls make a satisfying portable breakfast or snack.




Rainbow Fruit Salad: Good as a side dish or dessert, this bright and refreshing salad is naturally low in fat and sodium.



What are your favorite brunch items?