Blueberry oatmeal

You can make this oatmeal, which will take on a purple hue once the blueberries begin to burst, on top of the stove or in the microwave. It only takes about 10 minutes on top of the stove (five minutes in the microwave). 1 1/3 cups water 1/8 teaspoon salt (optional) 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon 2 teaspoons mild honey 2/3 cup rolled oats or oatmeal 1/3 cup blueberries 1/2 teaspoon finely chopped or grated orange zest 1/2 cup low-fat milk, soy milk, almond beverage or rice beverage 1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium-size saucepan. Add the salt, cinnamon, honey and oatmeal. Reduce the heat, and simmer uncovered for five minutes or until most of the water has been absorbed. Add the blueberries, orange zest and milk (or alternate beverage). Bring to a simmer, and simmer five more minutes or until the oatmeal is thick and creamy and the blueberries have begun to pop. Cover and let stand for five minutes, then serve. To make in a microwave: Place the oatmeal, water, salt, honey, cinnamon and nutmeg in a large Pyrex bowl — at least 1 1/2 quarts. Cover the bowl with a plate. Microwave at 100 percent power for three minutes. Let sit one minute, then carefully remove the plate. Stir in the blueberries, orange zest and milk. Cover with the plate, and microwave for two minutes more. Let sit for one minute so the oatmeal will absorb the milk. Yield: Serves two. Advance preparation: If you want to save a few minutes in the morning, you could combine all the ingredients except the milk, blueberries and orange zest the night before. The oats will absorb all of the liquid. Add the milk, bring to a simmer and proceed with the recipe.