Christian Burkert / The Broadside
This time-saving meal prep recipe delivers big flavor and leaves lots of room for creativity. The base is simple to make and can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. The add-ins listed below were used to make 2 flavors of refrigerator oats: Raspberry and Almond Mocha.
Makes 3 ½ Pint servings, good for 3 grab-and-go breakfasts
Total cost: About $1.61
Ingredients:
Oat base Ingredients:
1 cup rolled oats ($.20)
2 Tbs chia seeds – Optional ($.14)
1 pinch Salt
1.5 cups milk or any milk substitute ($.19)
½ cup vanilla yogurt ($.30)
1 tsp vanilla or almond extract ($.10)
Toppings and add-ins:
Raspberries and blackberries ($.30)
½ sliced banana ($.15)
Sliced almonds
For Almond Mocha:
1 Tbs cocoa powder ($.05)
1 tsp instant espresso ($.09)
For Raspberry:
1 Tbs raspberry preserves ($.09)
Instructions
Gather and prep ingredients.
![](https://thebroadsideonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/IMG_4142-1-1024x768.jpg)
Oat Base:
Add oats, chia seeds, salt, milk, yogurt, extract and your choice of add-ins to a mixing bowl and combine.
![](https://thebroadsideonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/IMG_4164-1-1024x768.jpg)
The mixture will be very runny.
![](https://thebroadsideonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/IMG_4172-1-1024x768.jpg)
Pour mixture into containers and refrigerate for at least four hours, but preferably overnight. Canning jars are trendy, but not necessary. Any container with a lid will work fine, or you can cover the bowl in plastic wrap. The mixture will have a firmer consistency after chilling.
![](https://thebroadsideonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/IMG_4184-1-1024x768.jpg)
Assembly:
Add toppings directly to the container or transfer the desired portion to a bowl and garnish with your preferred toppings. Fruit and berries work well, and crushed graham crackers, cereal, or granola add a nice crunch. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup will add a bit more sweetness.
![](https://thebroadsideonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/IMG_4189-1-1024x768.jpg)
Enjoy!
Notes:
The base of this recipe takes less than 5 minutes to assemble and can be used with an infinite amount of add-ins and toppings. The only limit is your imagination! Different brands of yogurt or different types of milk change the level of sweetness and flavor.