Oats

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This oats recipe is quick, nourishing, and endlessly customizable. It’s perfect for breakfast but can easily be adapted for a post-workout meal or healthy dessert. Whether you like your oats sweet or savory, hot or cold, this basic preparation serves as a foundation for countless variations. Plus, oats are naturally gluten-free (if certified) and affordable, making them a pantry staple.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Rolled oats (or quick oats)
• Water or milk (dairy or plant-based)
• Salt (a pinch)
• Optional: honey or maple syrup
• Optional: fruits like banana, berries, or apple slices
• Optional: nuts, seeds, cinnamon, or nut butter

Directions

1. In a small pot, combine oats, water or milk, and a pinch of salt.
2. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid—about 5 minutes for rolled oats or 1–2 minutes for quick oats.
4. Remove from heat and let sit for 1–2 minutes to thicken.
5. Stir in sweeteners, spices, or toppings of your choice.
6. Serve warm with your favorite fruits, nuts, or a swirl of nut butter.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 1–2 people.
Prep time: 2 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Total time: 7 minutes

Variations

• Make overnight oats by soaking the mixture in the fridge overnight instead of cooking.
• Use steel-cut oats for a chewier texture and longer cook time.
• Add cocoa powder or chocolate chips for a dessert-style version.
• Try savory oats with a fried egg, avocado, and sautéed spinach.
• Stir in Greek yogurt or protein powder for added protein.

Storage/Reheating

Cooked oats can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, add a splash of milk or water and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Stir to restore the creamy texture.
Overnight oats should be kept cold and consumed within 3–4 days.

FAQs

What type of oats should I use?

Rolled oats are ideal for this basic recipe, but quick oats or steel-cut oats can be used with adjusted cooking times.

Can I use water instead of milk?

Yes, water works well and keeps the oats lighter, though milk makes them creamier and more flavorful.

Are oats gluten-free?

Oats are naturally gluten-free, but be sure to use certified gluten-free oats to avoid cross-contamination.

How can I make my oats creamier?

Use milk or a milk alternative, cook slowly over low heat, and stir frequently.

What’s the difference between rolled and steel-cut oats?

Rolled oats are flattened and cook quickly, while steel-cut oats are less processed and take longer to cook with a chewier texture.

Can I make oats ahead of time?

Yes, you can meal prep cooked oats or prepare overnight oats for easy grab-and-go meals.

What are healthy toppings for oats?

Try fresh or dried fruits, nuts, seeds, nut butter, yogurt, or spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.

Can I add protein to oats?

Yes, stir in protein powder, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, or nut butter to boost the protein content.

How do I prevent oats from sticking to the pot?

Cook on low heat and stir often. Using nonstick cookware can also help.

Can I freeze cooked oats?

Yes, portion them into containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat with a bit of water or milk.

Conclusion

Oats are one of the most nutritious and adaptable ingredients you can keep in your kitchen. This easy oats recipe is a great way to enjoy a warm, comforting meal in minutes, with endless ways to customize it to your taste. Whether you enjoy them sweet or savory, oats are a healthy, satisfying choice any time of day.

Oats

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A quick and nutritious oats recipe that serves as a base for sweet or savory variations. Perfect for breakfast or a healthy snack, this comforting dish is packed with fiber and can be customized with endless toppings.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 2 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 7 minutes
• Yield: 1–2 servings
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: International
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1. 1/2 cup rolled oats (or quick oats)
2. 1 cup water or milk (dairy or plant-based)
3. Pinch of salt
4. Optional: 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
5. Optional: 1/2 banana, sliced
6. Optional: 1/4 cup fresh berries
7. Optional: 1 tablespoon nuts or seeds
8. Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
9. Optional: 1 tablespoon nut butter

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Instructions

In a small pot, combine oats, water or milk, and a pinch of salt.

1. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
2. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until oats absorb most of the liquid (about 5 minutes for rolled oats or 1–2 minutes for quick oats).
3. Remove from heat and let sit for 1–2 minutes to thicken.
4. Stir in sweetener, spices, or other desired toppings.
5. Serve warm with fruits, nuts, or a swirl of nut butter.

Notes

• Use milk for creamier oats and water for a lighter version.
• Add toppings after cooking to preserve texture and flavor.
• Customize with sweet or savory ingredients depending on preference.
• Overnight oats are a great no-cook alternative.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 0mg