At some point during the last few years, I became a morning person. After years of skipping it entirely—living on coffee and, if I was lucky, a granola bar—I started prioritizing breakfast which really inspired me. Most of that change came down to one simple formula: the breakfast plate formula.
Here’s what I’ve learned: breakfast doesn’t have to be a production. It does not require detailed preparation or waking up an hour before the required time. Once you let go of the idea that it has to be the whole show, eating breakfast becomes a lot more fun (and a healthy habit to stick to). More often than not, I just throw together a handful of ingredients I already have on hand, arrange them on a plate (or a container I can take on the go), and call it done. A breakfast plate makes you feel meaningful—even if it’s useless.
My favorite formula for the Aesthetic Breakfast Plate
The beauty of the breakfast plate is its simplicity. Instead of overthinking, I draw one thing from each of these categories:
Fiber. Fruit or vegetables are an easy start—berries, sliced apples, roasted sweet potatoes, or whatever is in season. A sprinkling of seeds or chia pudding made the night before adds texture and staying power.
Healthy Fats. Whole eggs, a few slices of salty cheese, spoons of peanut butter, or drizzle olive oil over your vegetables. Good fats are what fill the plate and keep you full.
Proteins. Yes, protein is having a moment, but for good reason. I aim to eat about 30 grams in the morning because it keeps me going until lunch. Greek yogurt, eggs, cottage cheese, or a prepared protein option make it easy.
Carbs. My favorite, and a quick source of energy for your body. A bagel, a piece of toast, rolled oats into a chia pudding, or a drizzle of honey over fruit. Carbohydrates make it sound like real food.
At the end of the day, you’re simply building a balanced plate—that hits key macros without needing a lot of maintenance. I choose options from each category that are easy to put together, so breakfast feels purposeful but not complicated.
Options to customize your breakfast plate
One of the easiest ways to keep your breakfast plate interesting is to follow the seasons. Seasonal fruits and vegetables don’t just taste better—they add natural variety year-round. I like options like clementines (complete natural packaging), because there is no cutting involved. Berries and grapes are equally easy, packaged food staples that require almost no preparation.
On the savory side, sliced radishes and cucumbers hold up well when prepared the night before. They retain their color and crunch, adding freshness and texture to your plate without the morning effort.
For fats and proteins, I keep it simple and use what’s already in my fridge. Some mornings almonds and a piece of cheese; other days Brazil nuts and avocados. I always keep eggs on hand and will boil a few on Sunday night to carry me through the week. That little preparation makes weeknight breakfasts effortless.
The Takeaway
While I will always enjoy a good, elaborate breakfast, it’s the simple, repetitive meals that make all the difference in the morning. The flexible formula takes the stress away and makes feeding yourself a breeze—not a craving.
Keep a few basics on hand, prepare less if you can, and let the combinations change with the seasons and your tastes. Remember: breakfast doesn’t have to be difficult to feel purposeful.
I’m always looking for new ingredients to add to my rotation. What are your go-to breakfasts right now?
This post was last updated on February 13, 2026, to include new information.
Early Morning Job Board
Works for 1
Breakfast Board is the Best Way to Start Your Day
Ingredients
- 2 hard-boiled eggs (my favorite method below!)
- 2 clementines
- 1/3 small cucumber, sliced
- 4-5 small radishes, chopped
- a handful of nuts such as almonds or Brazil nuts
- a small piece of cheese such as parmesan or cheddar
Instructions
- To boil the eggs to a soft but firm stage, bring a pot of water to a boil. Use a slotted spoon and carefully lower the eggs into the water. Cook for 10 minutes at a gentle boil. Use a slotted spoon to remove the eggs once they are cooked and place them in an ice bath to cool for a few minutes. Drain and crack and peel the eggs. Cut when ready to eat.
- To assemble your board or box, cut and prepare the ingredients and arrange as you like. Enjoy!