March into Spring by enjoying some delicious comfort foods (with a nutritious twist). These recipes are packed with whole grains, fruit, and vegetables. Even better, they use ingredients you probably already have in your fridge or pantry, so they’re great for your budget too.

Banana Oatmeal Bread

Banana bread is perfect for busy, on-the-go mornings and afternoon snacks.

Servings: 16
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Ingredients

  • 3 medium or 4 small ripe bananas
  • 1/3 cup oil (canola or vegetable)
  • 2 eggs
  • 2/3 cup white sugar
  • 1 cup oats (old-fashioned or quick cooking)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup chopped raisins or nuts (optional)
  • 1 tsp. cinnamon (optional)
  • 1 tsp. vanilla extract (optional)

Apple Crisp with Oats

Apple crisp is a simple and tasty dessert – like an apple pie without the crust. Apples are seasoned with a warm mix of spices, topped with a sweet and crunchy oat topping, and baked until the apples are tender. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra special treat!

Servings: 6
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Ingredients

Toppings

  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup old-fashioned oats
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup cold butter, cut in pieces

 Filling

  • 6 apples (medium size)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Cheesy Chicken Vegetable and Rice Casserole

This hearty one-dish meal can be adapted to your tastes. This recipe calls for broccoli, but this can be made with whatever vegetables you have at home.

Servings: 6
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1/2 lb frozen broccoli florets
  • 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (you can also use canned chicken or leftover rotisserie chicken)
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • Pinch of salt and pepper
  • 1 yellow onion
  • 2 carrots
  • 4 cups cooked rice
  • 3 Tbsp butter
  • 3 Tbsp flour
  • 1 cup chicken broth*
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • 8 oz medium cheddar, shredded