Name: Avocado, Banana and Oats Smoothie
Prep time: 5 min
Ingredients: 1/2 avocado (flesh); 2 Tbsp cocoa powder ((30 ml)); 1 banana (medium); 1/4 cup yogurt (plain Greek (60 ml)); 2-4 Tbsp milk ((30-60 ml)); 1/2 tsp vanilla extract ((2.5 ml)); 3 Tbsp instant oats ((45 ml))

We know that sometimes life can get hectic. Between work and personal obligations, it can feel like you’re always on-the-go.

Eating oats is a delicious way to get the nutrients, protein and energy your body needs. Even when you don’t have time for a sit-down meal, combine oats with other great ingredients like fruit, seeds and nuts to make satisfying, portable snacks and breakfast options.

The complex carbohydrates in oats digest slowly, which not only leaves you feeling full longer but provides you with a long-lasting source of energy. Protein goes hand in hand with energy – and oats have more protein than any other common grain, with one serving (1/2 cup) providing 5 grams of protein.

You don’t have to wake up an hour early to reap these great benefits. Preparing meals and snacks in advance always saves time in the long run, so take a few minutes on the weekend and whip up a batch of breakfast cookies or no-bake energy bites using oats, and enjoy them as a quick snack throughout the week.

Oats also make a great addition to smoothies – the wonder-breakfast you can drink on your morning commute. Try this avocado, banana and oat smoothie with Greek yogurt for a filling, grab-and-go breakfast that will provide you with an array of nutritional benefits, satisfy your hunger and leave you feeling full for your entire morning.

If you’re more of a traditionalist, or a comfort creature, oatmeal is still one of the quickest hot breakfasts you can make. If you can spare 5 minutes in the morning, you can whip up a bowl of oatmeal with quick cooking oats! Add fresh or frozen fruit and a handful of chopped almonds or walnuts to keep things interesting.

If you don’t have 5 minutes to spare before leaving the house – that’s okay, too. You can take regular oatmeal on-the-go with you. All you need is a microwave and water to prepare quick oats when you get to work or school. Don’t forget to bring your favorite toppings along in a sealed container.

Making oats part of your daily routine is an easy and delicious way to take care of yourself when life gets hectic. Easy to prepare and portable, breakfasts and snacks made with oats will get you through your busy day!

Avocado, Banana and Oats Smoothie

This thick, creamy smoothie is a refreshing and satisfying meal in a glass, perfect for mornings on the go. Oats, avocado, banana and Greek yogurt provide nutrition; a touch of cocoa powder gives a rich, chocolatey taste.

Course: Breakfasts

Category: 15 Minute Recipes, Gluten-Free, Grab-and-Go, Vegetarian

Oat Type: Instant Oats

Prep Time: 5

Servings:

Ingredients

1/2 avocado flesh
2 Tbsp cocoa powder (30 ml)
1 banana medium
1/4 cup yogurt plain Greek (60 ml)
2-4 Tbsp milk (30-60 ml)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract (2.5 ml)
3 Tbsp instant oats (45 ml)

Instructions

Blend everything together in a food processor until it's very creamy. Add more milk until it's the desired thickness.
Serve immediately or keep covered in the refrigerator for up to one day.