They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and we couldn’t agree more…
The weekend’s over, and we’re back to work. But what’s the one thing that can make a Monday morning brighter? A great breakfast, of course! Our team at Marie Claire Nigeria is sharing their Monday morning breakfast picks—discover the meals that fuel our productivity and set us up for a successful week.
My fruit-filled mornings
I kick-start my days with a fruit bowl, and the best part is that it’s a different bowl every day. I love combining pineapples, bananas, apples, pawpaws, watermelons and avocados, all cut into bite-sized pieces and served with a refreshing glass of lemon-flavoured water. Personally,, that’s the perfect way to begin a Monday morning – fresh and healthy.
Right now, I’m in mango heaven! Mangoes are my favourite fruit, and they’re in season, so I’ve been indulging in them every day for the past two weeks. Something about biting into a juicy, ripe mango just makes my day start on the right note. Whether it’s the sweetness or the texture, mangoes always leave me feeling satisfied and ready to take on the day.
Go big with the full English spread
Tobi, our Content Editor, is not much of a breakfast person, but when she is, her choices are as varied as her moods. Some mornings, a quick homemade parfait does the trick – Greek yoghurt layered with dried fruits, fresh apples, honey, and nuts. It’s her go-to when time is scarce. But on days when she’s feeling extra hungry or has some free time, she goes all out with a full English spread, minus the baked beans, which she doesn’t care for. “It depends on my mood,” she says with a shrug.
When she’s not in the mood for a feast, her breakfasts are simple – bread and egg, yam and egg, or just a cup of coffee. But here’s the thing: most days, she doesn’t eat breakfast at all, at least not until 2 pm.
A fitness girlie’s breakfast
Denise, our Ag. Managing Editor is a fitness girlie who loves to eat clean. Typically, she starts her day with a focus on clean eating, prioritising protein, probiotics, and fibre in her breakfast. “I love to begin my day with a winner’s dose of fibre, probiotics, and protein,” she says, highlighting her approach to nutrition. Her breakfast choices are designed to support her overall health, providing essential nutrients like Calcium, Potassium, and various vitamins.
Today’s breakfast features wheat bread, steamed broccoli, suya, and pickles – a combination she enjoys. “All food groups represented, and all deliciousness secured!” she notes, appreciating the balance and taste of her meal. She selects ingredients that support her well-being, aiming to stay energised and nourished throughout the day.
Enjoying the Nigerian staple breakfast
Esther, our Copy Editor, says breakfast is a non-negotiable part of her daily routine – unless she’s fasting. . When she does eat, she prioritises a meal that will energise and sharpen her mind for the day ahead. Her all-time favourite breakfast is a classic Nigerian dish: Akara with vanilla custard and milk. “It’s rich in protein, fibre, and iron and very satisfying,” she notes.
However, on busy mornings, convenience takes precedence. “Making Akara takes effort,” she admits, opting instead for quicker alternatives. Her go-to fallback is fluffy pancakes, scrambled eggs, and a cup of coffee – “the perfect kickstart to my day.” When time is truly scarce, she’ll settle for a simple bowl of oats with fruits like bananas and grapes.
Smoothies, parfaits, and a special treat
Mondays often catch Wumi, our Fashion & Beauty Editor, off guard, and before she knows it, she’s well into her workday – and past lunchtime – before her rumbling stomach reminds her that she hasn’t eaten. However, on days when she’s more intentional about her morning routine, she opts for smoothies or parfaits.
Her smoothies are a blend of yoghurt, berries, banana, honey, and dates, with a side of shortbread biscuits for added crunch. When time allows, she crafts her parfaits with Greek yoghurt, berries, granola, cashew nuts, and occasional coconut shavings. “They can be quite filling and will keep me going for some time before I think about food again,” she notes.
On rare occasions, she indulges in a special treat – her husband’s signature eggs and sausages, paired with Berry Blast. “Usually very yummy but also indulgent,” she says with a wink.
So tell us, what’s for breakfast this morning?
