Oats, Wonderful Oats!

Loved by many for being budget-friendly, quick to prepare, and super versatile, oats are also well-known for being one of the healthiest grains on Earth.

Benefits of oats

Oats are a great source of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber. They even have positive effects on blood sugar, heart health, and digestive health. Beyond a simple bowl of oatmeal, there are so many ways to cook oats. Plus, they’re a great way to stretch your food budget while incorporating more wholesome foods into your diet.

Oats are shelf-stable and may be stored up to 18-24 months in their original packaging. They can be cooked in large batches or for individuals. Plus, this nutrient-dense food can leave you full for hours!

Adding whole grains to your diet

It’s important to make half of all the grains you eat in a day whole grains. Whole grains contain the entire kernel– the bran, endosperm, and germ. These parts of the whole grain kernel contain essential fiber, B vitamins, and minerals.

Whole grains are easily identified through the ingredient list. Choose products that contain a whole-grain ingredient listed first on the nutrition label, whether it be “whole wheat,” “brown rice,” “oatmeal,” or even “whole oats.”

Looking for a fun, quick, and easy way to make some easy oatmeal?

Try out the recipe below! Or check out the Maine SNAP-Ed website for more ways to prepare oatmeal, including a no-cook method!

Warm Vanilla Spice Oatmeal

Servings Yielded: 1

Recipe By: Laura Nash, University of New England Student

Ingredients:

• ½ cup rolled oats
• 1 cup water
• 1 Tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ Tablespoon brown sugar
• Optional: ¼ cup sliced strawberries for topping

Stovetop Method

1. Bring the water to a boil in a pot.
2. Reduce to a simmer and add the oats, cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla.
3. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then shut off the heat and move the pot off the burner.
4. Cover the pot and let it rest for 5 minutes. Pour into a bowl and top with strawberries if desired.

Microwave Method

1. In a microwave safe bowl, combine the oats, cinnamon, ½ of the brown sugar, and vanilla.
2. Add in the water and mix.
3. Microwave for 2 minutes.
4. Add in the remaining sugar, let it stand in the microwave for 1 minute, top with strawberries (if desired) and enjoy!