St. Patrick’s Day shouldn’t be an occasion to justify indulgence in green frosted cupcakes or party snacks that often are too full of white sugar, white flour and sodium. Instead, it should be an occasion to celebrate the color green in your diet in a healthy way.
Who needs an artificial green additive when there are plenty of plant-based foods that offer the color in a detox-friendly way, like green leaves? Incorporating green leaves into any meal instantly makes it more nutritious and wholesome. Start your St. Patrick’s Day off right with this fun green overnight oats recipe that keeps your figure in check and your morning eyes entertained.
Also, feel free to add in your own protein powder of choice to transform the overnight oats into a post-workout snack or a heftier morning meal. The spinach taste is cut by the banana and low-glycemic maple syrup, which offer a delightful sweetness that will not send your blood sugar levels into hysteria. The chia seeds are essential to thicken the mixture as well as offer your body healthy fats and fiber. I use coconut milk for my overnight oats, but feel free to use whatever vegan milk you prefer.
Green Overnight Oats
Serves 1
Ingredients
- 1 large handful fresh spinach
- 1 ripe banana
- 1.5 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 cup vegan milk (almond, coconut, rice, soy)
- 1/3 cup rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
Directions
Blend the spinach, banana, chia seeds and vegan milk together until smooth. In a bowl, combine the oats with the spinach mixture and stir until evenly combined. Cover with cling wrap or a lid and place the bowl into the fridge. Let it sit there overnight, during which time it will set further. The next morning, top the overnight oats with fresh fruits, dried fruits, nuts or dark chocolate chips and enjoy!
Related on EcoSalon
Sunday Recipe: Kale and Ginger Smoothie
Foodie Underground: I’ll Have a Kale Smoothie with That
Wearing of the Green on St. Patrick’s Day
Oats image via Shutterstock