Oats and grains might not sound like the most exciting ingredients, but trust me, they’re total game-changers in the kitchen. They’re versatile, budget-friendly, and packed with nutrients that keep you fueled throughout the day. Plus, they make it easy to put together meals that are both simple and satisfying. Let’s dive into some fun and easy ways to use oats and grains that’ll have you coming back for seconds!
Contents
- 1 Creamy Banana Oatmeal
- 2 Blueberry Oat Pancakes
- 3 Chewy Oatmeal Cookies
- 4 Savory Oat Porridge
- 5 Tropical Overnight Oats
- 6 Quinoa Salad with Lemon Dressing
- 7 Classic Granola
- 8 Mushroom and Barley Risotto
- 9 Pumpkin Oat Muffins
- 10 Greek Yogurt and Oats Parfait
- 11 Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers
- 12 Steel-Cut Oat Breakfast Bowls
- 13 Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal
- 14 Lemon Herb Farro Salad
- 15 Oat Energy Balls
- 16 Chia Oat Pudding
- 17 Barley Vegetable Soup
- 18 More From RetailShout
- 19 10 Historic Breweries That Closed Their Doors for Good
- 20 The 6 Best and 5 Worst Kirkland Frozen Meals at Costco
Creamy Banana Oatmeal
Creamy banana oatmeal is the epitome of a warm and comforting breakfast. In a pot, combine 1 cup of rolled oats, 2 cups of milk (or water), and a pinch of salt, then stir in 1 mashed banana for natural sweetness. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, for about 5 minutes or until thickened. The addition of cinnamon enhances the flavor, while optional toppings like sliced bananas, nuts, or a drizzle of honey create a beautifully balanced meal. Perfect for chilly mornings, this dish is a wholesome way to start your day.
Blueberry Oat Pancakes
Blueberry oat pancakes offer a delightful twist on the classic breakfast favorite. Start by mixing 1 cup rolled oats, 1 cup flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt in a bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup milk, 1 egg, and 2 tablespoons melted butter, then fold the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined. Gently mix in ½ cup fresh or frozen blueberries, ensuring even distribution without breaking them. Cook on a lightly greased skillet over medium heat until golden brown on both sides. These pancakes are fluffy, fruity, and packed with hearty oats, making them a satisfying choice for breakfast or brunch.
Chewy Oatmeal Cookies
Chewy oatmeal cookies are the perfect blend of soft texture and rich flavor. Cream together ½ cup butter, ½ cup brown sugar, and ¼ cup white sugar until smooth, then beat in 1 egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Gradually add 1 cup rolled oats, ¾ cup flour, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and a pinch of salt to form the dough. Bake spoonfuls on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until golden around the edges. These cookies are a nostalgic treat that balances sweetness with the wholesome goodness of oats, perfect for dessert or an afternoon snack.
Savory Oat Porridge
Savory oat porridge redefines oats as a hearty, savory dish. Cook 1 cup rolled oats in 2½ cups vegetable broth until thickened and creamy, stirring occasionally. Stir in ½ cup grated Parmesan, 1 teaspoon olive oil, and a pinch of black pepper to elevate the flavor. For toppings, add a fried egg, sautéed greens, or roasted cherry tomatoes to create a nutritious and filling meal. This savory take on oats is ideal for those who prefer something more substantial and less sweet for breakfast or lunch.
Tropical Overnight Oats
Tropical overnight oats bring a taste of the tropics to your breakfast routine. In a jar, combine ½ cup of rolled oats, ½ cup coconut milk, 1 teaspoon of chia seeds, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Top with diced mango, pineapple, and a sprinkle of shredded coconut before sealing the jar and refrigerating overnight. The oats absorb the liquid, creating a creamy, pudding-like texture by morning. This no-cook dish is perfect for busy mornings and offers a refreshing, fruity twist on traditional oatmeal.
Quinoa Salad with Lemon Dressing
Quinoa salad is a light, zesty dish that’s packed with fresh ingredients and wholesome grains. Cook 1 cup of quinoa in 2 cups of water until fluffy, for about 15 minutes, then let it cool. Toss the quinoa with 1 cup diced cucumber, ½ cup cherry tomatoes, ¼ cup chopped parsley, and 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle with a dressing made from 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and a pinch of salt for a vibrant and tangy flavor. This salad is versatile and can be enjoyed as a side dish or a standalone meal.
Classic Granola
Classic granola is a crunchy, customizable treat that’s perfect for snacking or breakfast. Combine 3 cups rolled oats, 1 cup chopped nuts, ½ cup seeds, and ½ teaspoon cinnamon in a large bowl. In a saucepan, gently heat ⅓ cup honey, ⅓ cup coconut oil, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth, then pour over the dry ingredients and mix well. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through. Once cooled, add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a burst of sweetness in every bite.
Mushroom and Barley Risotto
Mushroom and barley risotto is an earthy, comforting dish perfect for a cozy dinner. Sauté 1 cup sliced mushrooms and 1 diced onion in 1 tablespoon olive oil until softened and fragrant. Stir in 1 cup pearl barley and gradually add 3 cups vegetable broth, stirring occasionally until the barley is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Finish with ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh thyme for a creamy, flavorful dish. This hearty risotto is a delightful alternative to traditional rice-based recipes.
Pumpkin Oat Muffins
Pumpkin oat muffins are a moist, flavorful treat with the cozy spices of fall. Mix 1½ cups rolled oats, 1 cup flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon nutmeg in a bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup pumpkin puree, ½ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup vegetable oil, and 2 eggs. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then divide the batter into a greased muffin tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes. These muffins are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert and are great for meal prep.
Greek Yogurt and Oats Parfait
Greek yogurt and oats parfaits are a simple, wholesome way to layer flavors and textures for a satisfying snack or breakfast. In a tall glass, layer ½ cup Greek yogurt, ¼ cup rolled oats, and ¼ cup fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries. Repeat the layers, drizzle 1 teaspoon of honey over the top, and sprinkle with a handful of granola or nuts for added crunch. The creamy yogurt complements the chewy oats and tart berries, creating a balanced dish that is both visually appealing and delicious. It’s an excellent choice for a quick, nutritious treat that feels indulgent.
Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers
Quinoa stuffed bell peppers are a vibrant and satisfying main dish, perfect for any occasion. Start by cooking 1 cup of quinoa in 2 cups water until tender, then mix it with ½ cup of black beans, ½ cup of diced tomatoes, ¼ cup of corn, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder. Cut the tops off 4 bell peppers, remove the seeds, and stuff them with the quinoa mixture. Arrange the peppers in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes until the peppers are tender. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for a complete and flavorful meal.
Steel-Cut Oat Breakfast Bowls
Steel-cut oat breakfast bowls are a hearty and customizable start to your day. Cook 1 cup steel-cut oats in 4 cups water over low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 25 minutes until creamy. Spoon the oats into bowls and top with your favorite ingredients—such as sliced banana, a handful of nuts, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a sprinkle of cinnamon. The chewy texture of steel-cut oats pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory toppings. This dish is perfect for leisurely mornings when you want a comforting, nutrient-packed breakfast.
Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal
Apple cinnamon baked oatmeal is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s great for meal prep. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups rolled oats, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon salt. In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups milk, 1 egg, ¼ cup maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, then pour this mixture over the oats and stir in 1 chopped apple. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes until set. Enjoy warm or chilled, topped with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Lemon Herb Farro Salad
Lemon herb farro salad is a refreshing and hearty dish that combines chewy farro with bright, zesty flavors. Cook 1 cup farro in 3 cups water until tender, then let it cool. Toss the farro with ½ cup halved cherry tomatoes, ¼ cup chopped fresh basil, 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese, and a handful of arugula. Drizzle with a dressing made from 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This dish is perfect as a light lunch or side dish, offering a wonderful balance of textures and flavors.
Oat Energy Balls
Oat energy balls are a no-bake snack packed with nutrients and flavor, perfect for busy days. Combine 1 cup rolled oats, ½ cup peanut butter, ⅓ cup honey, ¼ cup chocolate chips, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract in a bowl. Mix until well combined, then roll into bite-sized balls and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set. These energy bites are customizable—add shredded coconut, dried fruits, or chia seeds for extra flavor and nutrition. They’re an easy, grab-and-go snack that keeps you energized throughout the day.
Chia Oat Pudding
Chia oat pudding combines the creaminess of oats with the nutritional punch of chia seeds for a light yet filling dish. In a jar, mix ½ cup rolled oats, 2 tablespoons chia seeds, 1 cup almond milk, and 1 tablespoon maple syrup. Let it sit in the refrigerator overnight to thicken. In the morning, stir well and top with fresh fruits like berries, a handful of granola, or a sprinkle of cinnamon. This pudding makes a delicious and nutrient-dense breakfast or dessert.
Barley Vegetable Soup
Barley vegetable soup is a comforting and wholesome dish, perfect for chilly days. Start by sautéing 1 diced onion, 2 carrots, and 2 celery stalks in 1 tablespoon olive oil until softened. Add ½ cup pearl barley, 6 cups vegetable broth, 1 can of diced tomatoes, and a bay leaf. Simmer for 40-50 minutes until the barley is tender and the flavors meld together. This hearty soup is both nourishing and satisfying, offering a warm hug in a bowl.
This article originally appeared on RetailShout.
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