Morning can be busy and rushed. One of my favourite breakfast hacks is to make overnight oats! It's simple, versatile, and nutritious.
It's the perfect breakfast for busy people who still want a wholesome start to their day. There are endless flavour combinations to try, but first we better talk about the basics.
What Are Overnight Oats?
Overnight oats are simply oats that are soaked in liquid overnight instead of being cooked. This process softens the oats, giving them a creamy texture while preserving all their nutrients, and also helps reduce Phytic Acid in Oats.
All you need to do is combine oats with liquid (like milk or water) and let them sit in the fridge overnight. By morning, you'll have a ready-to-eat breakfast!
Why Are Overnight Oats So Popular?
-
Convenient and Time-Saving
One of the biggest benefits of overnight oats is how easy they are to prepare. You do all the work the night before, and when you wake up, your breakfast is ready. No need for cooking or even heating up if you don't want to, which makes them perfect for those hectic mornings. -
Nutritious and Filling
Oats are a powerhouse of nutrition. They're rich in fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which helps lower cholesterol and keeps you feeling full longer. They also contain a good amount of protein, vitamins (like B vitamins), and minerals such as magnesium and iron. -
Customizable and Fun
You can customize overnight oats to fit your taste and dietary preferences. Whether you like them sweet or savory, loaded with fruits or nuts, or even with a chocolatey twist, there’s a combination for everyone. Plus, they can easily be made vegan, or sugar-free based on your needs. -
Great for Meal Prep
If you’re someone who likes to meal prep, overnight oats are perfect! You can make a big batch on Sunday and portion them out for the whole week. They last in the fridge for up to 4-5 days, and the longer they sit, the more the flavors blend together.
How to Make Overnight Oats: The Basic Recipe
The beauty of overnight oats lies in their simplicity. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- ½ cup traditional rolled oats
- ½ - 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based, like almond or oat milk) - Adjust to suit your texture preference
Instructions:
- In a jar, bowl or container (that can be sealed), combine the oats and liquid Stir well to combine.
- Cover and place in the fridge overnight.
- In the morning, give it a stir and add your desired toppings.
That’s it! No cooking, no fuss. Just grab your jar and enjoy!
Flavor Combinations to Try
If you're looking to spice up your overnight oats routine, here are some delicious flavor combos you can try:
-
Classic Banana and Peanut Butter
- Add a tablespoon of peanut butter and sliced bananas in the morning.
-
Berry Bliss
- Mix in fresh or frozen berries (blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries) before refrigerating.
-
Chocolate Almond Joy
- Add a teaspoon of cocoa powder and sprinkle in almonds and coconut flakes for a dessert-like treat.
-
Apple Pie
- Add cinnamon, diced apples, and a handful of walnuts for a cozy, fall-inspired breakfast.
-
Tropical Paradise
- Combine coconut milk with diced mango, pineapple, and a sprinkle of shredded coconut for a taste of the tropics.
-
Matcha Green Tea
- Add ½ teaspoon of matcha powder to the oats and top with fresh berries for an energizing breakfast.
Tips for the Best Overnight Oats
- Use Rolled Oats: While instant oats might seem like an easy option, rolled oats provide the best texture. Learn more about the different types of oats here.
- Don’t Skimp on Liquid: Oats absorb a lot of liquid, so make sure you have enough to avoid a dry consistency. A good ratio is 1:1 oats to liquid.
- Give it Time: The oats need at least 4 hours to fully absorb the liquid, but they’re best after an overnight soak.
- Sweeten to Taste: You can control the sweetness by using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup or even fruit like mashed bananas or applesauce.
- Add Toppings Just Before Eating: If you like crunchy toppings, like nuts or granola, add them in the morning so they stay crispy.
Are Overnight Oats Healthy?
Absolutely! Oats are a great source of complex carbohydrates, which give you lasting energy throughout the day. The fiber in oats helps with digestion and can aid in weight management. By adding protein-rich ingredients like yogurt or chia seeds and healthy fats like nuts or seeds, you create a balanced meal that will keep you full and satisfied.
Conclusion
Overnight oats are a game-changer for busy mornings. With just a few minutes of prep the night before, you can enjoy a nutritious, delicious breakfast that’s completely customizable to your taste. Whether you prefer fruity, nutty, or even chocolatey flavors, there’s an overnight oats recipe for you. Give it a try, and make your mornings a little easier—and a lot more delicious!