I used to make a smoothie bowl (almost) every morning for breakfast. Then it started becoming less fun so I decided to scale back. Also, I like sleeping as long as I can on weekdays.

Cue: Simple breakfasts that look pretty. About a year ago, I discovered that if you use yogurt or milk as a base and throw a bunch of things on top, it makes a wonderful breakfast. It tastes good, it’s nice to look at, and most of the time, it’s good for you.

It also comes together relatively quickly and requires minimal work, so you can press snooze a few times on your alarm and still have time to make it before you leave for work (or whatever else you’re doing). I get a small adrenaline rush from running downstairs late and throwing together the bowl.

Even though I’d caution against rules for simple breakfast bowls, there are a few guidelines that I think are helpful. Every bowl should have at least one kind of fruit. Two is better but one will give you flavor and color. Granola is advised. Also, you should probably add something crunchy (e.g. nuts, quinoa puffs, or whatever else pairs well with yogurt). It adds texture and tastes good with yogurt.

I usually drizzle honey over the top of my bowl for sweetness because I have a HUGE sweet tooth. I also sprinkle seeds on top if the fruit is looking a little “meh.” Presentation is everything.

So anyway. Those are my very informal guidelines for creating a spur-of-the-moment breakfast bowl. I think they’ll serve you well.

In the meantime, listen to this song. I love the opening line.