Overnight Oats

A week ago I posted a question here.  Along with this picture:

What was this momma doin'?  This momma was making Overnight Oats.

What are overnight oats, you ask?  That's what I wondered, too, when I first heard about them.  Well, I'll tell you what they are.  They're genius!

I really do want to eat healthier and more real foods.  But, let's be honest, it takes time.  Time to prepare the meals, yes, but also time to learn about new recipes and to change your habits.  And we are busy people.  I also really like my sleep.  So the idea of waking up early to make a breakfast that isn't cereal or a frozen breakfast sandwich or pop-tarts (you get the idea) isn't super appealing to me.

So when I came across this idea of overnight oats, I was intrigued.  You can make your breakfast the night before.  As long as I can remember to do that at least...

Anyway, the simple explanation is that you mix oats, milk, yogurt, fruit, and whatever else you would like to try in a bowl and stick it in the fridge to be ready to consume the next morning.

It is a little weird to eat oatmeal cold.  I haven't really gotten used to it yet.  But it's not bad.  The fact that it's quick, easy AND healthy makes it better.  

Enough of my rambling and on to the recipe!

Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup uncooked old fashioned rolled oats
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1/4 cup low-fat Greek yogurt - I used vanilla because I don't like the plain
• 1-1/2 teaspoons dried chia seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon honey, optional (or substitute any preferred sweetener) - I prefer raw, local honey
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce

Directions

1.) Combine all ingredients in a bowl

2.) Stir thoroughly 

3.) Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight or up to 2 days.  (not pictured)

4.) Eat chilled (I might try popping it in the microwave next time to take a bit of the chill off)

High in protein, calcium & fiber - low in fat & sugar.  Now go start your day with a healthy, nutrition-packed punch!