Easy Instant Oatmeal
You can make a handful of containers ahead of time, then pull them out for easy breakfasts when you need them. Or, make and serve all at once.
Servings: 6
Calories: 210kcal
Equipment
Ingredients
- 3 cups instant oats (sometimes called "quick oats" or "1-minute oats"
- 3/4 cup dried fruit (like dried blueberries, raisins, apples, or mango, or freeze-dried strawberries)
- 1/4 cup hemp seeds (optional; or chia or flax seeds)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- milk and/or nut or seed butter (optional, for serving)
Instructions
To make the oatmeal mix:
- Divide the oats into six 1-cup containers or bags.
- Add 2 tablespoons dried fruit and 1 teaspoon seeds (if using) to each.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon. Seal and store for up to 3 months.
To cook:
- Pour 1 container or bag into a heat-safe bowl. Add 1 cup boiling water, stir, and cover with a plate. Let sit for 2 minutes. The oats mixture will absorb the liquid and plump up. (Alternatively, you can add the water to the bowl with the oats and cook in the microwave for 60-90 seconds, stopping to stir at least once. This way makes for slightly more well cooked instant oats.)
- Top with milk, brown sugar or honey, nut or seed butter, or with sprinkles as desired.
Notes
- Start with instant oats to ensure that they cook quickly when you're ready to use them.
- Add fruit, cinnamon, and seeds for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- Top with milk and nut or seed butter when ready to serve as desired. (Adding nut or seed butter will make the oatmeal more filling.)
- Gluten-free: Use GF certified rolled oats.
- Dairy-free: Top with your favorite nondairy milk.
Nutrition
Calories: 210kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 2mg | Potassium: 179mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 45IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 42mg | Iron: 3mg