Nutritious Baked Oatmeal with Nuts, Seeds, and Fruits

Nutritious Baked Oatmeal with Nuts, Seeds, and Fruits

Ingredients:

• • Oatmeal: 1 cup + 1/2 cup, divided
  • Nuts: 1/2 cup, chopped (walnuts, almonds, pecans, or your choice)
  • Sweetener: 1 tablespoon (honey, maple syrup, or stevia)

• • Sesame Seeds: 1 tablespoon
  • Sunflower Seeds: 1 tablespoon
  • Cinnamon: 1/4 teaspoon

• Apple: 1, peeled and chopped
• Banana: 1, mashed

Directions:

• • Prepare the Mixture:
    • • Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F).
      • In a large mixing bowl, mix 1 cup oatmeal, chopped nuts, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, and cinnamon. Stir well.
      • Peel and chop the apple into small pieces. In a separate bowl, mash the banana until smooth.
    • Add the apple, mashed banana, and sweetener to the dry mixture. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined.
    • Mix in the additional 1/2 cup of oatmeal to help bind the ingredients.

• • Bake the Oatmeal:
    • Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
    • Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared dish. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is set.

• Serve the Baked Oatmeal:
  • Allow the baked oatmeal to cool slightly before slicing into squares or bars. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions:

• • Enjoy as is, or top with a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess.
  • Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
  • Serve with a side of fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast.

• Pair with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy breakfast.
• Add a sprinkle of additional nuts or seeds for extra crunch.

Cooking Tips:

• • Use a ripe banana for maximum natural sweetness and easy mashing.
  • Feel free to customize with additional seeds, nuts, or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries.
  • For a more indulgent treat, add a handful of dark chocolate chips to the mixture.

• Ensure the mixture is evenly spread in the baking dish for uniform cooking.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • Oats: Rich in fiber, promoting heart health and aiding digestion.
  • Nuts and Seeds: Provide healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins.
  • Fruits: Add natural sweetness, fiber, and vitamins like vitamin C and potassium.

Dietary Information:

• • Vegetarian-friendly.
  • Dairy-free: If yogurt is omitted or replaced with a plant-based option.

• Gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free oats.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

• • Calories: 180

• • Protein: 5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fat: 8 g

• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 8 g