This week, I had the chance to chat with Natalie Coughlin, the 6-time medalist in swimming from the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Stay tuned for my interview with her on food, healthy eating, and what keeps her motivated.  But meantime, check out this healthy breakfast recipe she developed for the California Dried Plum Board (she’s a paid spokesperson for the Board).

Bircher Muesli with Dried Plums
Makes 4 servings

Ingredients:
1 cup coarsely grated unpeeled apple
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup steel-cut oats
1/2 cup chopped raw natural almonds
1/2 cup raw sunflower seeds
1/2 cup (about 3 ounces) quartered California pitted dried plums
1 1/2 cups apple juice
Grated zest and juice of one orange
Sliced bananas and yogurt, for serving

Directions:

In a large bowl, combine apple, rolled and
steel-cut oats, almonds, sunflower seeds, and dried plums. Add apple juice,
orange zest and orange juice; mix well. Refrigerate, covered, overnight or up
to 3 days. To serve, portion into bowls and top with bananas and yogurt.

Recipe is courtesy of Olympic and World Champion
swimmer Natalie Coughlin and the California Dried Plum Board.

(image via: http://tummywise.com)

Need more morning inspiration?  Read our entire Fresh Morning collection!