This is overnight oats by far is one of my favorite recipes. I used to make it consistently and enjoyed it as a quick on-the-go breakfast. Overnight oats have grown in popularity as they are easy to make and many fitness personals rave about it.
What are overnight oats?
Overnight oats are exactly what it sounds like, it is oats you make and leave overnight so you can eat them for breakfast in the morning. I never thought about doing this or eating in until I worked at a coffee shop and this was something they sold.
I was raised on oats porridge and was something I enjoyed. Therefore, imagine my surprise when I first heard about overnight oats, of course, there was apprehension about trying it but was surprised as to how much I liked it.
What are the benefits of overnight oats?
Depending on you and what you like, I will share a few tips on what you can add to your overnight oats. Oats is the main ingredient and has a lot of nutrients:
As per Healthline, oats are a good source of carb and fiber. Contains more protein and fat than any other grain. Loaded with loads of other micronutrients such as phosphorus, magnesium, copper, iron, zinc, folate, Vitamin B1, and B5.
Oats are very nutrient-dense therefore you will feel fuller for longer periods of time. There is a soluble fiber in oats called beta-glucan, which reduces LDL, total cholesterol, blood sugar and increases the growth of good bacteria in the digestive tract.
Is it ok to eat this in the morning? Overnight oats have so many benefits and for busy individuals such as myself, this is one of the easiest ways to start the day, not only that you get the vitamins and nutrients you need.
What makes overnight oats so great? It’s not just the oats but what you put in it, and I will show you later how you can make it to your liking, by adding as much of or as little of an ingredient you like.
Ingredients:
Oats: outlines above gives an in dept analysis of the main ingredients, for this recipe I used rolled oats.
Non- Dairy Milk: I love using coconut milk, but you can use (oat milk, almond, soy milk, hemp milk, cashew milk… etc.)
Coconut milk has so many benefits such as being loaded with antioxidants, electrolyte balance, good for the immune system, loaded with antioxidants, and has many anti-inflammatory properties.
The taste is so amazing and will add a lot of flavor to your overnight oats.
Agave: Also depending on what you like, you can also have honey or dates.
Agave is a plant-based alternative to sugar. Agave is loaded with loads of nutrients that are beneficial to your health.
Cinnamon: Cinnamon is a household spice that has been around for centuries. Loaded with loads of anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, probiotic properties. Adding cinnamon to your overnight oats will give it that added flavor.
Those are the three base ingredients for my overnight oats, as needed I will add more ingredients based on my needs.
Other ingredients you can add:
Bananas: A staple in many people’s diet has a lot of health benefits from ample amounts of potassium, to improving digestive health, to aiding with weight loss.
Blueberries: I add blueberries from time to time as I like that it is low in calories, packed with antioxidants and is hydrating. Unlike bananas which have more carbs, blueberries are lighter and are suited if you don’t want that heavy fruit.
Chia seeds: I love chia seeds and would put them in anything, this is a good way to pack in some omega-3s, not only that they are high in fiber and protein and excellent for weight loss.
Nut butter: You can add your favorite butter, I find that adding peanut butter does make me feel full longer. Not a lot of people like peanut butter or is allergic, you can add cashew butter (another favorite of mine), almond butter, or whatever nut butter you like.
How to make your overnight oats:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 cups of non-dairy milk
- 2 tbsps. agave
- 1 tbsp. cinnamon
- 1 tbsp. chia seeds
Step 1: Combine oats, agave, and milk in a blender
You don’t have to, but I prefer to blend my oats, this is the best way to ensure it will be smooth and consistent. When you blend it, I will have a more uniform taste and feel versus if you mix it, I have done both and can make a difference.
Step 2: Add your cinnamon. I love to add this spice to my overnight oats recipe as it gives it a nice taste, along with whichever fruit or topping you like.
How should you store your overnight oats?
This recipe makes about four small mason jars, I would ration them out and put them in the fridge. Each day you can add fruit, nut butter, or eat plain based on how you like it.