Savory Oatmeal
Tired of sweet oatmeal? This hearty Tex-Mex version is the perfect alternative! Creamy rolled oats are infused with savory spices like chili powder and cumin, then loaded with black beans, corn, and fresh avocado. It's a delicious, protein-packed, and fiber-rich meal to kickstart your day or enjoy for a quick lunch.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.In a medium saucepan, combine the rolled oats, vegetable broth, chili powder, ground cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- 2
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil
- a.Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the oats from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Cook until the oats are tender, creamy, and have absorbed most of the liquid.
- 4
Stir in the rinsed black beans and corn
- a.Continue to cook for another 2 minutes, until the beans and corn are heated through.
- 5
Remove the saucepan from the heat
- a.Divide the savory oatmeal evenly among four bowls. Top each serving with sliced avocado, a dollop of Greek yogurt, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with a lime wedge on the side.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a richer, nuttier flavor, toast the dry oats in the saucepan for 1-2 minutes over medium heat before adding the broth and spices.
- 2Don't walk away while the oats are simmering; they cook quickly and can stick to the pan if not stirred regularly.
- 3This recipe is great for meal prep. Store cooked oatmeal in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or water and add fresh toppings before serving.
- 4For a creamier consistency, stir in a splash of milk or plant-based milk during the last minute of cooking.
- 5Adjust the spice level by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce along with the other spices.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Top with a fried or poached egg for extra protein and a rich, runny yolk that acts as a sauce.
Veggie LoadedVeggie Loaded
Sauté 1/2 cup of diced bell peppers and onions in the saucepan with a little oil before adding the oats and liquid for more vegetable goodness.
Cheesy DelightCheesy Delight
Stir in 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese at the end of cooking until melted and gooey.
Grain SwapGrain Swap
Substitute rolled oats with quinoa or millet for a different texture. You will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio according to package directions.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Sustained Energy Release
The complex carbohydrates in rolled oats are digested slowly, providing a steady supply of energy and preventing blood sugar spikes, keeping you full and focused for hours.
Excellent Source of Fiber
With both soluble fiber from oats and insoluble fiber from beans and corn, this dish promotes healthy digestion, aids in cholesterol management, and contributes to a feeling of fullness.
Rich in Healthy Fats
Avocado provides monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health by helping to reduce bad cholesterol levels and providing essential fatty acids.
Plant-Based Protein Power
This meal offers a complete protein profile when combining oats and black beans, making it an excellent choice for muscle maintenance and repair, especially for those on a plant-based diet.
Frequently asked questions
One serving (about 1.5 cups) contains approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the specific toppings used. This makes it a substantial and filling meal.