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I got invited to go on trip to Australia and few years ago; and even though it was more like 10 years ago (but who's counting), I can still remember everything we ate.

In each place we stayed, no matter how luxurious, they always had a continental breakfast filled with freshly baked breads and spreads, hot oatmeal, mountains of fresh fruit and always Bircher muesli. And I get why.

Not only is it an easy breakfast -- which you basically just throw together -- it's also super healthy. The flat flakes of oats act as little scrubbers that scrub down your system and get you ready for the day.

There are also tons of different ways to customize this tasty breakfast. You could:

--Make it seasonal with fresh fruit, like stewed rhubarb in the spring, peaches in summer or pomegranate in fall.

--Add dried fruit, like dried cranberries, dried apricots or even dates. They'll add texture and also be a natural sweetener.

--Add spices, like cinnamon and nutmeg.

--Add a touch of sweetness with maple syrup or agave nectar.

Bircher Muesli

Serves 4

2 cups old fashioned rolled oats

1 1/2 cups apple cider

2 pears, grated

1/2 cup vegan plain yogurt or almond milk

1 teaspoon maple syrup

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Nutmeg (optional)

1/4 sliced almonds

1 cup raspberries

1. Place oats and apple cider in a bowl, cover and place in the fridge overnight (or at least 3 hours).

2. Stir in grated pears, yogurt or almond milk, maple syrup, cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg. Top with almonds and raspberries.

Tasty tips

--Use old-fashioned roll oats. They hold their shape better than quick or instant oats.

--Pear or apple juice can be substituted for apple cider.

--Grated apple can be substituted for grated pear.

--Bircher muesli will last in the fridge, if covered, for up to four days.

--Have fun with this quick and easy breakfast recipe! Top it with any kind of nuts or seeds and whatever fruit is in season.

(Kary Osmond is a Canadian recipe developer and former television host of the popular daytime cooking show "Best Recipes Ever." Her easy recipes include helpful tips to guide you along the way, and her love of plant-based cooking offers healthy alternatives to some of your favorite dishes. Learn more at www.karyosmond.com.)