When I first heard about overnight oats many years ago, I imagined a gross, sticky, porridge-like consistency. I was reminded of a recipe I tried in my early career as a nutritionist that involved heating oats in a crockpot overnight with fruit...it was barely edible.
Then one day, while attending an intense 3-day conference out of town, I needed a quick breakfast and all that was available on the run was a bowl of overnight oats.
BEST. BREAKFAST. EVER!
No sticky gooey mess, no bland flavour, just pure deliciousness and sustenance for the day ahead!
The overnight oats I had that day were fresh tasting, flavourful, and left me wanting lots more!
I have started making overnight oats at home now, as they fit my requirements for quick and simple meals that taste great and are also nutritionally beneficial.
It takes just 5 minutes to prepare the night before and, as they are meant to be served cold, all you do in the morning is take them out of the fridge, grab a spoon, and dive in!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Here's my basic recipe:
1/4 cup gluten free oats
2/3 cup almond / coconut milk or other dairy alternative
Dash of maple syrup or honey
Extra goodies like nuts, seeds, dried fruit, raw cacao powder, seeds, coconut flakes, etc.
Mix everything together in a mason jar or other container with lid, stir or shake and put in the fridge until morning!
My fave combo right now is to add approximately 1 tsp cacao powder, dried cranberries, pumpkin seeds, organic coconut flakes, a dash of maple syrup and a drop each of doTERRA Wild Orange or Peppermint oil.
Both of these essential oils are supportive of the digestive system and taste great together!
Other great additions:
- Chopped apple and cinnamon
- Chopped pecans, almonds, walnuts, etc.
- Sunflower, hemp, pumpkin, chia, or other seeds
- Mashed banana
- Applesauce
- Almond or other nut butter
- The possibilities are endless!
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You can make individual containers for the whole family with each person picking out their favourite combos. A fun, quick, easy, and delicious way to start the day.
These quick and easy gluten-free breakfast jars are perfect for anyone on the go or who wants to grab something quick, easy, and nutritious in the morning without a lot of fuss.
Enjoy!