How to Make Overnight Oats

MANGO  CRUNCH OVERNIGHT OATS

INGREDIENTS

1/2 cup rolled oats

1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)

1/2 cup ripe mango, diced

1 ripe banana, mashed

1 tablespoon chia seeds

1 tablespoon desiccated coconut

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)

Additional toppings (optional): sliced mango, sliced banana, desiccated coconut

METHOD

In a jar or container with a lid, combine the rolled oats, milk, mashed banana, chia seeds, desiccated coconut, and honey or maple syrup (if desired). Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Add the diced mango to the mixture and gently stir to distribute it throughout.

Close the lid tightly and refrigerate the jar overnight, or for at least 4 hours, to allow the oats to soften and absorb the liquid.

The next morning, give the mixture a good stir. If the consistency is too thick, you can add a splash of milk to achieve your desired consistency.

Serve the overnight oats in a bowl or eat them straight from the jar. If desired, top with additional sliced mango, banana, and a sprinkle of desiccated coconut for added texture and flavour.

These overnight oats will have a creamy, tropical flavour thanks to the mango, banana, and coconut. The chia seeds add a nice texture and provide additional nutritional benefits. Feel free to adjust the amount of sweetness by adding more honey or maple syrup if desired. Enjoy your delicious and nutritious mango coconut overnight oats!

HOW TO GET CREATIVE WITH MAKING OVERNIGHT OATS

Overnight oats are a versatile and convenient breakfast option that can be customized in numerous ways. Here are some tips to get creative with overnight oats and the reasons why they make a great breakfast:

Flavour Variations: Experiment with different flavours and combinations. You can add ingredients like cocoa powder, cinnamon, vanilla extract and cinnamon sticks to enhance the taste of your oats.

Toppings Galore: Get creative with toppings! Add fresh fruits, nuts, seeds, shredded coconut, granola, or a dollop of nut butter to add texture, flavour, and extra nutrients to your oats.

Layered Parfaits: Create layered overnight oats by alternating oat layers with fruit, yoghurt, or chia pudding. This adds visual appeal and a variety of flavours to each spoonful.

Protein Boost: Incorporate protein-rich ingredients such as Greek yoghurt,  chia seeds, hemp seeds, nut butter or seeds to increase the protein content of your overnight oats, keeping you satisfied and energized throughout the morning.

Pudding Consistency: Adjust the consistency of your oats by adding more or less liquid. If you prefer thicker oats, reduce the amount of milk, while if you like them creamier, increase the liquid.

Make-Ahead Breakfast: The beauty of overnight oats is that you can prepare them the night before and have a ready-to-eat breakfast waiting for you in the morning. It saves time during busy mornings and allows you to enjoy a nutritious meal without the hassle.

Nutritional Benefits: Overnight oats are packed with fibre, whole grains, and important nutrients. They provide a sustained release of energy, keeping you full for longer and helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels.

Customizable for Dietary Needs: Overnight oats can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. They can be made vegan by using plant-based milk and yoghurt, and gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats.

Digestive Health: The soaking process of overnight oats breaks down phytic acid, making them easier to digest and allowing for better nutrient absorption.

Portability: Overnight oats are portable, making them an excellent on-the-go breakfast. You can pack them in a jar or container and take them to work, school, or college.

In summary, overnight oats are a fantastic breakfast option because they are versatile, customizable, and time-saving. They provide a balanced combination of nutrients, can be tailored to individual tastes and dietary needs, and offer a convenient and nutritious start to your day. So get creative with your overnight oats and enjoy a delicious and wholesome breakfast!