Overnight oats, or the ultimate breakfast solution, are lifesaving for hectic mornings. This healthy meal is suitable for workers, moms, and kids for breakfast before doing their jobs, and it is also a sustainable option for everyone. They’re quick to prepare, filling, and provide a burst of energy, especially when made with steel-cut oats. Moreover, overnight oats are incredibly versatile, pairing perfectly with various toppings, especially fruits. Among the many fruits, strawberries stand out, particularly in a strawberry overnight oats recipe. With strawberry overnight oats, you’ll enjoy a delightful texture and a perfect balance of sour and sweet flavours!
Ingredients for strawberry overnight oats
Old-fashioned rolled oats
Old-fashioned rolled oats, the heart of any good overnight oats recipe, are quick to soak and rich in fibre and complex carbs. They provide long-lasting energy without the crash, especially when combined with coconut milk. This nutritional powerhouse is a great start to your day.
Greek yogurt
Yogurt, especially Greek yogurt or non-dairy yogurt, is one of the liquids used to make strawberry oats. If you don’t have a sweet tooth, using Greek yogurt instead of almond milk would be better. The combination of creamy yogurt and strawberries is the best combo you should try! Choosing plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt is best to avoid sneaky added sugars. For a vegan-friendly version, go for coconut or almond-based yoghurts with added probiotics.
Almond milk
Besides Greek yogurt as the liquid, almond milk provides another option if you prefer the overnight oats’ sweetness and less thick texture. Almond milk, a popular choice, has a light, nutty flavour that doesn’t overpower the other ingredients. In addition, almond milk is also low in calories and easy to digest, making it suitable for a plant-based diet.
Vanilla extract and almond extract
Vanilla and almond extract may be essential ingredients for some people when making strawberry overnighters as flavour boosters, and they love this recipe! It is perfect for people who use plain liquid without extra sweetener, particularly non-dairy milk options. Adding extract will undoubtedly add a different flavour than before. A splash of vanilla adds warmth and a cookie-like aroma, while almond extract brings out the nuttiness in the oats and complements the strawberries.
Honey or maple syrup
Adding sugar to overnight oats is optional, but it can make them less healthy, especially if you use refined sugar; consider using pure maple syrup instead. However, several substitute sweetener options, such as honey or maple syrup, are still healthy sweeteners to be consumed in moderation, especially in a nutritious breakfast like strawberry overnight oats. Natural options like maple or honey offer minerals and a gentler effect on your body.
Sea salt
It may seem unusual, but a pinch of sea salt can change everything. Salt enhances the natural sweetness of strawberries and brings out the flavour in your oats. It also helps balance electrolytes, which are often overlooked in quick breakfasts. You can use a small amount of sea salt, but don’t overdo this ingredient, especially when using unsweetened ingredients.
Chia seeds
Chia seeds are a very healthy ingredient for strawberry overnight oats! They provide many vitamins, such as omega 3, fibre, and high protein, making you feel fuller longer when consuming them, especially when refrigerating them for 4 hours. Thus, they also support digestion and stabilise blood sugar levels, making this recipe a healthy choice. Therefore, if you are on a diet, using chia seeds in your overnight oats is the right thing to do!
How to make strawberry overnight oats
Making strawberry overnight oats couldn’t be easier. In a jar or container, you can combine:
- ½ cup old-fashioned oats
- ⅓ cup Greek yogurt
- ½ cup almond milk or any vegan milk of choice
- 1 tablespoon of chia seeds can also help thicken the oats when refrigerating them.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: almond extract, 1–2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup, a pinch of sea salt
- ½ cup fresh diced strawberries
Mix it all and seal the container. Pop it in the fridge overnight for at least 6 hours for the best texture! In the morning, please stir and top with extra fresh strawberries, nuts, or a dollop of yogurt. With this simple recipe, you can eat your strawberry oats!
Health benefits
Strawberry overnight oats are a delicious breakfast option and a powerhouse of nutrients. Packed with clean, plant-based ingredients, high protein, and fibre, they are free from seed oils, preservatives, and processed sugars that can lead to inflammation and energy depletion. Instead, they support gut health, blood sugar balance, and long-lasting satiety, making them an ideal choice for a healthy breakfast.
However, oats can not only be eaten at breakfast but can also be a lazy option meal when at home or when you are pre- or post-workout. So, rest assured, you’re making a wise dietary choice with this recipe.
Flavour variations
Strawberry lemon
Using lemon will make your oats taste fresher and juicier. Lemon is perfect for morning consumption as it is rich in vitamin C. The citrusy brightness pairs beautifully with the strawberries and adds a refreshing twist.
Chocolate strawberry
You’ll have a lot of freedom to customise your overnight oats as they go well with various toppings, including chopped strawberries and nuts! For example, add a tablespoon of cocoa powder or some vegan dark chocolate chips to your strawberry oats to make chocolate strawberry oats. The combination of strawberries and chocolate is indulgent yet nutritious.
PB&J
Mixing the tart flavours of strawberries and the nuttiness of peanut butter also makes for delicious and unique oats! Mix a spoonful of peanut butter or PB&J and a teaspoon of strawberry jam. It’s a nostalgic combination that brings a taste of childhood into your morning routine.
Protein oats
Protein oats can also be a good way to have enough protein and energy in the morning! By using protein overnight oats, you’ll get more vitamins and feel fuller faster, making it perfect for dieting or exercising with the added benefit of vanilla protein powder. Boost your protein content by adding your favourite vegan protein powder scoop. You can make this recipe creamier by using coconut or almond milk as your base. Or you can get high-protein overnight oats at Oats My Goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are overnight oats healthy?
Yes, overnight oats are a great source of complex carbs, fibre, protein, and healthy fats (especially with chia seeds). They’re minimally processed and can help support digestion, satiety, and stable energy levels throughout the day.
Can I eat overnight oats every night?
Absolutely. Overnight oats can be part of a balanced diet daily, especially if you vary your ingredients to get a range of nutrients. Just watch the sweeteners and keep portions realistic to maintain balance in your meal prep for the week.
Do you eat overnight oats cold?
They’re meant to be eaten cold from the fridge, especially when using fruits as toppings. But if you prefer, you can warm them slightly in the microwave or stove. The texture softens even more, and the flavours mellow beautifully.
Conclusion
Strawberry overnight oats are a modern breakfast that should be included in your healthy breakfast rotation. Whether rushing to work or grabbing something post-workout, they’re ready to eat, totally satisfying, and packed with nutrition, especially if you add vanilla protein powder.
You can easily have overnight oats from Oats My Goodness because they’re free from wheat, rye, and barley and use natural ingredients. This makes them a great option for anyone with gluten intolerance or even some coeliacs. With 20 grams of plant-based protein and 1/3 of your daily fibre, these oats fuel your day without leaving you heavy or sluggish!
