Are you ready to transform your breakfast routine? Savory Oatmeal with Spinach is a quick and healthy meal that packs flavor and nutrients. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a bowl of deliciousness in no time. This dish is not only satisfying but also customizable to fit your taste. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this delightful dish that will keep you energized all day!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional)
– 1 poached egg (optional)
The ingredients for savory oatmeal are simple yet full of flavor. Rolled oats serve as the base, giving you a hearty texture. Vegetable broth adds warmth and depth. Fresh spinach brings a pop of color and nutrients. Cherry tomatoes add sweetness and a juicy bite. Garlic enhances the dish with its fragrant taste. Olive oil adds richness and a smooth mouthfeel. Red pepper flakes can give a spicy kick if you like. Don’t forget the seasonings, salt and pepper, to tie everything together. Nutritional yeast provides a cheesy taste, and a poached egg adds protein. This combination makes for a quick and healthy meal.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of savory oatmeal contains about 300 calories. It has 10 grams of protein, 45 grams of carbs, and 10 grams of fats. You also get vitamins A and C from spinach. The fiber in oats helps with digestion. This meal offers a good balance of nutrients to keep you energized.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
– Oatmeal: Oats are high in fiber. They help lower cholesterol and keep you full longer.
– Spinach: Spinach is packed with vitamins and minerals. It supports eye health and boosts immunity.
– Garlic: Garlic has many health benefits. It may help lower blood pressure and has anti-inflammatory properties.
These ingredients not only make your meal tasty but also nourish your body in many ways. You can find the full recipe above to get started on this delightful dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Base
1. Heat olive oil: Start by pouring 1 tablespoon of olive oil into a medium saucepan. Set the heat to medium. This oil adds flavor and helps cook the garlic.
2. Sauté garlic: Add 1 minced garlic clove to the hot oil. Stir it for about 1 minute. You want it fragrant but not burnt. Keep an eye on it!
3. Toast rolled oats: Now, add 1 cup of rolled oats to the pan. Stir them for about 2 minutes. This step brings out the nutty flavor of the oats. Make sure to coat them in the garlic oil.
Cooking Oatmeal
1. Add vegetable broth: Carefully pour 2 cups of vegetable broth into the pan with the toasted oats. Stir to mix everything well.
2. Simmer and cook: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Then, lower the heat and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes. Stir it occasionally. You want the oats to soak up most of the broth and become tender.
Final Touches
1. Incorporate spinach and tomatoes: When the oats are cooked, add 1 cup of chopped spinach and 1/2 cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Stir them in and let everything cook for 2-3 minutes. The spinach will wilt nicely.
2. Seasoning: Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste. If you like a cheesy flavor, add 1 tablespoon of nutritional yeast. Stir everything together until well combined.
3. Optional poached egg: For a heartier meal, top your savory oatmeal with a poached egg. The yolk adds richness and extra protein.
Enjoy this quick and healthy meal at any time of day! For the full recipe, check the details above.
Tips & Tricks
How to Enhance Flavors
To make your savory oatmeal shine, use fresh herbs and spices. Fresh basil or parsley adds bright notes. Garlic and onion powder can deepen the flavor. Red pepper flakes give a nice kick. Adjust seasoning to taste. Always start with a little salt and pepper. You can add more if needed, but it’s hard to take it out once added.
Cooking Techniques
Properly toasting your oats is key. It brings out their nutty flavor. Heat olive oil in your pan first. Add the oats and stir for a few minutes. This step makes a big difference in taste. For even cooking, stir the oats often. This ensures they cook uniformly and absorb the broth well.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation matters! Serve the oatmeal in deep bowls. Top it with a poached egg for a fancy touch. Drizzle with olive oil for a glossy finish. Garnish with fresh black pepper and extra cherry tomatoes. Pair it with a light salad or a fruit smoothie for balance. Enjoy your meal warm and fresh for the best experience.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily change the ingredients in savory oatmeal. If you don’t have spinach, try kale or Swiss chard. They add nice greens and flavor. For tomatoes, you can use bell peppers or even zucchini. Each swap brings its own taste.
You can also switch the grains. Instead of rolled oats, try quinoa or farro. Both grains add a unique texture. They also bring extra nutrition.
Flavor Enhancements
To make your savory oatmeal even better, add cheese or nuts. Feta cheese adds a nice salty flavor. Cheddar gives creaminess. Nuts like walnuts or almonds add crunch and healthy fats.
If you like spice, add jalapeños or hot sauce. Red pepper flakes can also heat things up. Adjust the spice to your taste for a fun twist.
Dietary Modifications
For vegan options, skip the poached egg and cheese. Use plant-based cheese if you want a cheesy flavor. You can also use vegetable broth to keep it vegan.
If you need gluten-free oatmeal, choose certified gluten-free oats. Always check labels for hidden gluten. This dish can easily fit your dietary needs.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store leftover savory oatmeal, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just remember to check for any signs of spoilage before using. Moisture can alter the taste and texture.
Freezing Options
Freezing savory oatmeal is easy. Spoon the cooled oatmeal into freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top, as it expands when frozen. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you want to eat it, take it out and place it in the fridge overnight to thaw.
To reheat, warm it in a pot over low heat. Add a splash of broth or water to help it regain a creamy texture. Stir often to avoid sticking.
Meal Prep Tips
Making oatmeal ahead of time is smart. You can cook a big batch and store it. Divide it into servings for quick meals. Store the oats and toppings separately. This keeps the toppings fresh and prevents sogginess.
For best results, prepare the oats and keep them plain. You can add spinach, tomatoes, and seasonings right before eating. This ensures every bite is fresh and tasty.
You can find the complete recipe for savory oatmeal with spinach in the Full Recipe section.
FAQs
Can I make savory oatmeal without broth?
Yes, you can make savory oatmeal without broth. You can use water instead. For more flavor, try using milk or a plant-based milk. This adds creaminess without broth. You can also add herbs and spices for taste. A splash of soy sauce or miso paste works well too.
How do I add more protein to this dish?
To boost protein, consider adding a poached egg on top. You can also mix in cooked beans, like chickpeas or black beans. Tofu is another great choice; just sauté it before adding. Nutritional yeast adds protein too, plus a cheesy taste.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, you can prepare savory oatmeal ahead of time. Cook the oatmeal and store it in a sealed container. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. You can also pre-chop spinach and tomatoes. Just add them when you reheat.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover oatmeal?
To reheat oatmeal, add a splash of water or broth. Heat it in the microwave or on the stove. Stir often to prevent sticking. If it gets too thick, add more liquid. This keeps the texture creamy and delicious.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, this recipe is great for kids! To make it kid-friendly, keep the spices mild. Use less garlic or skip it if they don’t like it. You can also let them choose toppings, like cheese or a fried egg. This makes it fun and tasty for them.
For the full recipe, check out Savory Oatmeal with Spinach and a Touch of Garlic.
This blog post covered a simple, nutritious savory oatmeal recipe. We discussed ingredients like oats, spinach, and garlic, and their health benefits. I walked you through preparation, cooking techniques, and flavor tips. You can swap ingredients, store leftovers, and even meal prep.
In my view, savory oatmeal is a great choice for any meal. It’s healthy and easy to customize to your taste. Try it out, and enjoy the many ways to make it your own.
