Research shows that a healthy breakfast is the best way to start your day. But—let’s admit it—that same old everyday breakfast can just get boring! Take a breakfast basic like oatmeal, for example. There are benefits of starting your day with a heart-healthy whole grain that gives you energy and so many nutrients, but oats get a bad rap for being dull.
If you think oats are bland, we have some ideas for you!
Quaker (the oat experts) have provided some fun, flavor-packed, crave-worthy recipes starring the almighty oat. As a bonus, we’ve included one of Aramark’s own oatmeal classics.
Read on to bring an end to your oatmeal monotony and bring “oat” the flavor. Happier mornings are ahead.
A taste of carrot cake for breakfast? Yes, please! These no-bake treats may sound indulgent, but they are packed with nutrients and sweetened with dates and carrots instead of refined sugar. In just one hour, you’ll have enough to power you through an entire busy week.
Ingredients
- 2-1/4 cups Quaker® Oats (quick or old fashioned, uncooked)
- 2 cups finely shredded carrots
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 cup finely chopped dates
- 2/3 cup finely chopped almonds
- 2/3 cup coconut flakes
- Water
Cooking Instructions
Stir together the first five ingredients (oats, carrots, cinnamon, dates, and almonds). Add water, one tablespoon at a time, as needed for shaping consistency. Form the dough into 24 heaping tablespoon-sized balls. Roll lightly in coconut flakes. Refrigerate at least an hour before eating. Store leftovers in refrigerator, covered. Makes 24 bites.
Why You “Oat” To Try It: ENERGY TO GO
A healthy breakfast of whole grains can give your day a strong start AND a strong finish. The “good carbs” from these super convenient whole grain bites are absorbed slowly in the body. This steady source of fuel comes on gradually and stays with you.
Who says oatmeal has to be sweet? This twist turns oats into a delicious savory bowl packed with spinach and tomatoes. Or customize it with your favorite veggies. Finished with a sprinkle of cheese, it’s ready in just 5 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Quaker® Oats (quick or old fashioned, uncooked)
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup packed baby spinach leaves, long stems removed & coarsely chopped
- 1/4 cup tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tablespoon (2 ounces) shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, divided
Cooking Instructions
In medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Stir in oats. Cook uncovered over medium heat, 1 minute for Quick Oats, 5 minutes for Old Fashioned Oats, stirring occasionally. Spoon into bowl. Stir in spinach and a little shredded cheese; top with chopped tomato and remaining cheese. Optional: add black pepper to taste.
Why You “Oat” To Try It: A TOTALLY NEW TAKE ON BREAKFAST
For most people, this kind of savory whole grain breakfast bowl is something new. Give it a try. You’ll find a whole new world of flavors–and the veggies and oats combined provide more than 4 grams of filling fiber. Most of us should be aiming for 25 to 30 grams of fiber a day—a diet rich in grains, fruits, and vegetables will help you get there.
APRICOT PISTACHIO OATS ON-THE-GO
The only thing better than a warm, tasty breakfast is one that travels with you. Make-ahead “oats on-the-go” will not disappoint. Endless flavor combinations—like this one that marries crunchy pistachio with chewy apricot—take the boring out of breakfast.
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup Quaker® Quick Oats
- 1/2 teaspoon light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons dried milk powder
- 1 tablespoon dried apricots, chopped
- 2 teaspoons sunflower seeds
- 1 teaspoon pistachios
- Pinch of sea salt
- 2/3 cup water (for serving)
Cooking Instructions
Place all ingredients except the water in a small zip top bag. To serve, empty contents of bag into a mug or bowl, add the water, and microwave for 2 minutes. Let sit 2 minutes before eating.
Why You “Oat” To Try It: FLAVOR PACKED HEART HEALTH
Recipes like this make heart healthy fiber something to look forward to. According to the American Heart Association, oats have a greater proportion of soluble fiber than any other grain. Soluble fiber, a type of fiber that traps cholesterol and takes it out of the body, helps reduce overall blood cholesterol levels. This convenient recipe brings the flavor and convenience!
STEEL CUT APPLE CINNAMON OATMEAL
This Aramark recipe pairs steel cut oatmeal with sweet and tart Granny Smith apples, ground cinnamon, and apple juice. It’s a classic that will send your taste buds into overdrive and it is simple to perfect at home.
Yields 6, 8 oz. servings
Ingredients
- 3 ¼ cup water
- 3/4 cup apple juice
- 1 cup shredded Granny Smith apples
- 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 ¼ cups steel cut oats
Cooking Instructions:
In a pot over high heat, combine water, apple juice, apples, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon and bring to a boil. Add oats. Stir. Return to boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer 25 minutes. Remove from heat. Let rest, covered, 20 minutes. Stir before serving.
Why You “Oat” To Try It: IT’S A CLASSIC
Sometimes you just can’t beat the classic flavors of oats, apples and brown sugar. Enjoy!
Note: Since everyone’s health history and nutritional needs are so different, please make sure that you talk with your doctor and a registered dietitian to get advice about the diet and exercise plan that‘s right for you.