Berry and Cream Oatmeal
Welcome to your new favorite bowl of oatmeal.
Something warm and cozy
Is it cold outside? Here in Virginia, it's been in the 20s in the morning. I'm sure some of our more northern readers are laughing at how down-right balmy that is, but for us in Virginia, that's freezing! (Also, it is, technically, freezing…) Luckily, it's warm in this bowl of oatmeal!
My husband asserts that putting something warm IN your body is a faster way to warm up than putting something warm ON your body. Maybe he just loves any excuse for hot chocolate.
I'll happily go along with his thoughts if I get to dig into this yummy, steaming bowl of oatmeal! It's a great way to start a frosty morning. Let us know if it warms you up.
Simple, delicious, and full of fiber for staying power, this oatmeal virtually guarantees a great morning.
Why Oatmeal? Is it Healthy?
Oatmeal is a preparation of de-husked, steamed, and flattened oats. It can be milled, rolled, or steel-cut. In their natural state, oats are gluten-free (more about that below), dairy-free, nut-free, and vegan/ vegetarian.
Oats are some of the healthiest grains you can eat and are perfectly in line with a Mediterranean Diet! (In fact, the Mediterranean Diet encourages us to eat whole grains. Read more about that here.)
Full of Fiber
Oats are full of fiber and healthy carbohydrates that help keep you full and energetic. The fiber in oats is primarily soluble and has been linked to a reduction in unhealthy cholesterol levels. This type of fiber can also help lower blood sugar levels.
Full of Protein
Did you know that Oats also contain more protein than most grains? Half a cup contains 13 grams of protein! If you'd like to try a natural oatmeal that has even more protein, we recommend you try our favorite one here.
Full of Vitamins
Oats are also brimming with vitamins and minerals, including Zinc, Iron, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B5, Copper, Magnesium, and Folate. They are also full of antioxidants that may help reduce blood pressure and the risk of heart-related conditions.
Can Oatmeal Help With Weight Loss
The fiber in oatmeal takes a while to leave your stomach, helping you feel fuller longer. This, in turn, may help you eat less, leading to weight loss. Studies have also shown that this kind of fiber may promote the release of a satiety hormone linked to reduced calorie intake.
Is Oatmeal Gluten-free?
Another plus for oats is that they are naturally gluten-free.
It is important to know, though, that they can be contaminated with gluten during processing. This is because they are often grown and processed in facilities that handle wheat, barley, and rye.
Here's how to make sure your oatmeal is genuinely gluten-free. Look for products labeled "gluten-free." These are processed in facilities that avoid cross-contact with gluten-containing grains. If you have celiac disease or a strong gluten sensitivity, it's essential to choose certified gluten-free oats to avoid any potential issues.
More ways to eat oats
If you love oats and want to try more ways to eat them, give some of our other oatmeal recipes a try:
Can I Change this Recipe?
Absolutely! Oatmeal is incredibly flexible. If you hate chia seeds, feel free to leave them out. If you like your oatmeal with more berries or cream, add it on top. Select whatever berries you want the best.
Oatmeal Recipe Notes:
Canned coconut cream will have higher fat and calories but yield a creamier oatmeal.
Want More Mediterranean Diet Breakfasts?
Looking for more delicious and nutritious breakfast recipes?
Discover the Mediterranean diet's vibrant flavors and health benefits with our Breakfast Cookbook.
Recipes in the e-Cookbook include such delectable treats as:
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Overnight Oats
- Berry Chia Parfait
- Quinoa and Kale Egg Muffins
- Protein-packed Avocado Toast
- Blueberry Breakfast Crisp
- .... and much more!
