Overnight Oats with Apricots & Yogurt
Overnight oats with apricots and yogurt offer a perfect balance of convenience and nutrition. Soaking oats overnight not only speeds up breakfast preparation but also enhances digestion, ensuring a smooth start to your day.
The addition of chia seeds and apricots boosts this dish with antioxidants and heart-healthy benefits, while creamy yogurt ties everything together, creating a rich and satisfying texture.
Topped with sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch, this dish can be made ahead and enjoyed throughout the week, making it an ideal option for busy mornings.
Overnight Oats with Apricots & Yogurt – Ingredients
Oats form the base of this nourishing breakfast, offering a hearty, fiber-rich foundation that promotes fullness and digestive health. Chia seeds add a boost of antioxidants and omega-3s, supporting heart health.
Almond milk (or cow’s milk for non-vegan options) infuses the oats with creaminess while keeping the dish light and dairy-free. Vanilla extract enhances the natural sweetness, creating a comforting, aromatic undertone.
Fresh apricots bring a tangy-sweet vibrancy, balancing the creamy oats with their rich flavor, while yogurt ties everything together with a silky smooth texture and probiotics for digestive wellness. Sunflower seeds add a delightful crunch, completing this wholesome dish.
Recipe Tips
- Customize Your Milk Choice
For a dairy-free version, almond milk works wonderfully, but you can substitute with any plant-based milk such as oat milk or coconut milk. If you prefer a richer, creamier texture, go for whole milk or even Greek yogurt, depending on your dietary needs. Just keep in mind that using a thicker milk can slightly alter the consistency of the oats. - Enhance the Sweetness
If you like your oats sweeter, consider adding a drizzle of honey or maple syrup when mixing the oats with the milk and vanilla. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a touch of warmth and spice. Remember, apricots already add a natural sweetness, so adjust according to your taste. - Prepare in Bulk for Convenience
This recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to four days, making it a great meal prep option. You can double the recipe to make enough for the whole week. Just be sure to store the apricots and sunflower seeds separately until you’re ready to serve to keep them fresh and crisp.
What to Serve with Overnight Oats with Apricots & Yogurt
- Fresh Fruit Salad
Pair your overnight oats with a vibrant fruit salad for a refreshing contrast. A mix of berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries will complement the sweet apricots while adding another layer of flavor and texture. A squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of mint can elevate the fruit salad’s freshness. - Nut Butter Toast
For a more filling breakfast, serve the oats alongside whole grain toast topped with almond or peanut butter. The creamy nut butter provides a savory balance to the sweet oats and adds healthy fats and protein to keep you satisfied throughout the morning. - Green Smoothie
A nutrient-packed green smoothie is a great complement to this dish. Blend spinach, banana, and a handful of almonds with your favorite plant-based milk. The smooth, creamy texture of the smoothie pairs well with the texture of the oats, providing a well-rounded, energizing breakfast.
FAQ
- Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make this recipe fully vegan by using almond milk (or another plant-based milk) and opting for a dairy-free yogurt. You can also use maple syrup or agave syrup instead of honey if you’d like to keep it vegan-friendly. - How can I make the apricots less tangy?
If you find apricots too tart, you can cook them for a little longer in the pan or add a touch of honey or maple syrup during the cooking process to mellow the flavor. You can also try using dried apricots for a sweeter taste. - Can I use frozen apricots instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen apricots can be used as a substitute. Just ensure they are thawed and drained before cooking. Keep in mind that frozen apricots might release more liquid, so be mindful of that when cooking them. - How long can I store the overnight oats?
The overnight oats can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure they are stored in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and texture.
Overnight Oats with Apricots & Yogurt
Ingredients
- 200 g oats
- 50 g chia seeds
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 550 ml almond milk or cow’s milk, if preferred
- 1 tsp rapeseed oil
- 320 g fresh apricots stoned and quartered
- 400 g pot of fortified oat or plain bio yogurt
- 4 tsp sunflower seeds
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the oats, chia seeds, vanilla extract, and almond milk. Stir to mix, then cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Heat the rapeseed oil in a small non-stick pan. Add the apricots in a single layer and cover. Cook on low heat for approximately 5 minutes, or until softened. Stir well and continue cooking for an additional few minutes if necessary, allowing the residual heat to finish the process as the apricots cool. Once done, cover and refrigerate.
- The following morning, stir the yogurt into the soaked oats, then spoon the mixture into tumblers, small jars, or bowls. Top with the cooked apricots and a sprinkle of sunflower seeds. The dish can be stored, covered, and chilled for up to four days.
