Get a healthy head start on busy back-to-school mornings with an easy make-ahead breakfast — overnight oats.
Packed with fibre and protein, oats aren’t just a filling breakfast option. According to Mayo Clinic Health System, they also have an abundance of health benefits that include reducing the risk of heart disease and lowering cholesterol.
Most overnight oats recipes start with equal amounts of the same basic ingredients – oats and your favourite milk. Some recipes also include yogurt, chia seeds and a sweetener such as honey or maple syrup. From there, the variety of optional add-ins and toppings is endless – think cinnamon, vanilla, peanut butter, fruit or nuts.
Once your oats are mixed up, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate overnight. Or, if stored in individual airtight containers, you could even make a week’s worth of breakfasts on Sunday.
To help get you started on your overnight oats journey, we’ve provided a couple recipes from Chef Dale MacKay for inspiration:
This easy breakfast tastes like you’re on vacation and keeps the summer feeling alive, thanks to the combination of coconut, banana and pineapple. Throw in some honey for added sweetness and chia, hemp and buckwheat seeds for extra nutrition. A glass of orange juice (or mimosa) will complete the holiday vibe.Everyone’s favourite fall flavours — pumpkin, maple syrup, raisins and cinnamon — bring a comfy, cozy feel to this recipe. Garnish with apple matchsticks and pumpkin seeds for a little crunch. Pair with a glass of milk or cup of Co-operative Coffee for the perfect fall breakfast.
If you prefer your oats have some crunch, add Co-op Gold Granola to your morning yogurt for another quick option.
With just a little prep in the evening, you can wake up to a healthy, hearty breakfast.
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