Every family gravitates to certain meals on a regular basis. Usually it is something fairly easy to make that they enjoy eating–we would also want it to be healthful. I don’t remember when we were first introduced to muesli which is a Swiss dish, more commonly known today as morning oats. I’m sure our version isn’t like the original, but you couldn’t get any faster or healthier and the best part is that each person can build it to suit themselves. You see a lot of refrigerator oatmeal these days where you put oats and milk in a canning jar in the fridge overnight–unless it is a grab and run, I’d soak mine in my bowl so I’m only washing one dish. Our niece who has spent much more time in Europe than we have (that wouldn’t take much), eats her overnight oats with yogurt. One of our good friends makes hers with part coconut milk, diced pears, a little OJ and some sweetener and additional fruit–very delicious! Fresh berries of all kinds make great toppers. So now that you have the idea, here is a basic recipe you can work with.
If you are using the thicker oats, soaking overnight is preferable, but if you get up and need something unplanned, quick oats work really well at the last minute. For allergies, use the gluten-free oats.
We are fortunate enough to have available beautiful tiny dried dates for a delicious sweetener.
For us the basic fruit is diced apples, but winter pears would be wonderful.
Today we have grapes in the fridge and that is a good option, but berries of any kind or even black cherries are tasty. We always freeze these fruits for winter convenience.
Then a little of your favorite milk to moisten the oats.
Top this with a few nuts–sliced or slivered almonds, pecans, walnuts, etc. and there you have it! A sprinkling of flax meal is a healthy bonus–I wouldn’t add it the first time so you can see muesli’s flavor on it’s own. If you wish, add a side of toast and nut butter. This is such a great traveling meal. We always take oats and dates with us. It is like granola without all the work of making and baking! It is also deliciously salt-free. I hope this has inspired you to try your own version soon.
- regular or quick oats
- mini dried dates for sweetener --or sweetener of your choice
- diced sweet apples
- berries, grapes, or other fruit
- nuts, opt.
- dairy-free milk
- flax meal, opt.
- Layer these ingredients in order given, topping with the milk and enjoy!