Chia and Overnight Oats

Overnight Oats has become one of my favorite breakfasts what with it being fuss free and quick to prepare, yet super healthy and rich in proteins and fibers. I like it so much that even a cold breakfast on cold days doesn't bother me anymore. And this particular recipe is something extra, because of one ingredient that is my all time favorite - Coconut! 

This dish has coconut milk, coconut sugar and some extra coconut drizzled on top! now that's some extra, right? If you love coconuts, this breakfast is for you! The inspiration for this dish came from the overnight oats sold at Starbucks. I've had it so many times from there but I wanted to try making it at home. It turned out just as good and perfect but without all those preservatives. 

This dish particularly comes in handy if you have an busy morning schedule or on Monday mornings when you are not yet out of the weekend mode. Spend 5 minutes the previous night and be rewarded with a delicious breakfast the next morning. 

I would encourage experimenting with your own flavor mixes and change it up to your liking. 

Ingredients: I made 2 servings (for me and the hubs)

For the Base

Half a cup rolled oats
Half a cup cooked quinoa (This adds another 10-15 min to the prep but can be omitted. Just increase the quantity of oats as required)
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 cup coconut milk
A tablespoon water
Sweetener of your choice - I used coconut sugar. You can use regular sugar or maple syrup

Toppings

3-4 chopped strawberries
A handful of almond slivers
A handful of toasted coconut shavings
A Sprinkle of hemp seeds

In a large bowl, mix together all the ingredients for the base and then divide the oats mixture into 2 jars. Let this sit overnight in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, top with the chopped strawberries, almonds, coconut shavings and hemp seeds. you could also add a little more sugar/maple syrup on top. Serve immediately. 

Tips:

Do not add the strawberries into the oats the previous night as it might change the taste of the oats. It is best to top it fresh before eating. 

The same with almonds and coconut shavings. They will turn mushy if added the previous night. It is best to store them separately. 

You could explore fruits and flavors like apples and cinnamon, bananas and chocolate etc.