It’s great when you can take the work out of meals.
Teeing up breakfast the night before is the perfect way to do just that.
I was given the best overnight oats recipe over a decade ago in a raw foods class. Since then, I’ve experimented with lots of different combos.
You can make them as healthy, or as indulgent as you like by layering fruit, nuts, superfoods, or (hard left) chocolate chips, cookie crumbles, graham crackers and more… lots of possibilities.
My goal is to provide food that gives my kids and me optimal fuel, so we’re gonna keep this on the healthier side, but just know you can go a little nutso… if your heart desires!
I love to pack chia seeds… in everything! They’re an excellent source of protein and fiber that will give you fuel AND leave you feeling full for awhile. It’s the perfect food to send the kids off to school, so they’re not counting down the minutes to that mid-morning snack!
I also add gluten free oats. If you know me I talk a lot about the connection between gluten and health, even IF you don’t have a gluten intolerance.
Most oats are already gluten-free, but can be contaminated while being processed, so if you’re wanting to guarantee they’re g-free, buy a “certified” g-free brand.
I also like to stir in some non-alcohol vanilla. The flavor is a little richer and purer than traditional vanilla. It will also take your oats to the next-level in flavor.
These overnight oats also have a little yogurt.
Yogurt is great for your tummy with probiotic benefits and, as you can see, this is a dairy-free brand.
I have a dairy allergy so it’s a no-go for me, plus dairy is very inflammatory. Inflammation often leads to disease, so it’s a good idea to steer clear of foods that make your body inflamed.
I topped this batch off with some berries which are loaded with antioxidants and fiber. You can use any berries you like… blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, goji berries.. so many berry options.
These little jars will last up to three days in the fridge as long as they’re sealed, but good luck getting them to last that long!
Here’s what you’ll need for this hearty, delicious, fuel-filled breakfast!
Vanilla Chia Overnight Oats:
- 1 cup gluten-free oats
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 1/4 cup almond milk
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 2 tablespoons dairy-free yogurt
- 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup berries (garnish)
Directions:
- Mix everything, except the berries, in a 16 ounce mason jar or bowl. Shake or stir well. Cover tightly and place in refrigerator for 3 hours, or ideally overnight.
- Serve with 1/4 cup of fresh berries and a drizzle of syrup for added sweetness.
NOTES:
*Recipe is for one serving
*You can add berries the night before, just note they will be a little softer than when you add it fresh.
*Try oats with 1/4 cup chopped bananas, 1 to 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts and a drizzle of almond butter for a different combo.
