Quick Blueberry Oatmeal
A quick and nourishing bowl of blueberry oatmeal, perfect for a busy morning. This recipe combines the sustained energy of old-fashioned oats with the antioxidant power of wild blueberries for a delicious and satisfying start to your day.
For 1 serving
Combine Oats and Liquid: In a small saucepan, combine the old-fashioned rolled oats, water or plant-based milk, and a pinch of salt.
Bring to a Simmer: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent the oats from sticking to the bottom.
Cook Oats: Reduce the heat to low and continue to cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and reached your desired creamy consistency.
Add Blueberries and Cinnamon: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the frozen wild blueberries and ground cinnamon.
Rest and Serve: Let the oatmeal sit for 1-2 minutes. This allows the residual heat to gently warm the blueberries and soften them slightly, releasing their juices.
Sweeten and Garnish (Optional): If desired, stir in maple syrup or honey to taste. Top with chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition before serving warm.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For creamier oatmeal, use milk (dairy or plant-based) instead of water and cook on a lower heat for a slightly longer duration, stirring more frequently.
- 2Don't overcook: Oats can become gummy if cooked too long. Keep an eye on the consistency and remove from heat once it reaches your preferred texture.
- 3Boost protein: Stir in a tablespoon of nut butter or a scoop of unflavored or vanilla protein powder (after cooking) for a more filling and muscle-supporting meal.
- 4Meal prep friendly: Cook a larger batch of plain oats, then portion and add fresh or frozen fruit, nuts, and sweeteners when ready to eat. Store cooked oats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Adapt it for your goals.
Fruit Swap
Substitute wild blueberries with other frozen berries like raspberries, mixed berries, or sliced banana. Fresh fruit can also be used, added at the very end.
Spice It UpSpice It Up
Experiment with other warming spices such as a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or a pumpkin pie spice blend for a different flavor profile.
Nutty CrunchNutty Crunch
Add a tablespoon of almond butter, peanut butter, or cashew butter for extra creaminess, healthy fats, and protein. Toasted coconut flakes also make a great topping.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Fiber
Oats and blueberries are excellent sources of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps regulate blood sugar levels, contributing to sustained energy.
Antioxidant Rich
Wild blueberries are particularly packed with antioxidants, especially anthocyanins, which help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals and support overall cellular health.
Sustained Energy
The complex carbohydrates in old-fashioned rolled oats provide a slow, steady release of energy, helping to keep you full and energized for longer periods without a sugar crash.
Frequently asked questions
While instant oats cook faster, old-fashioned rolled oats offer a better, chewier texture and more sustained energy due to their less processed nature. If using instant oats, adjust the liquid and cooking time according to package directions, as they absorb liquid more quickly.
