Oatmeal Fruit Veggie Bake Recipe

This Oatmeal Fruit & Veggie Bake is a perfect combination of nutritious ingredients that fuel your body while keeping your taste buds happy. The combination of oats, fruits, and vegetables offers a hearty, filling dish that’s ideal for breakfast or a healthy snack. It’s easy to prepare, and the blend of dried fruits with fresh pumpkin and apples makes it naturally sweet without the need for added sugar. Packed with fiber and vitamins, this recipe is excellent for anyone looking for a balanced and delicious treat.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

• 2 cups (200g) oatmeal
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt
• 1 cup (240 ml) milk
• 50 grams dried plums (prunes), chopped
• 50 grams dried apricots, chopped
• 1/2 cup (50g) cranberries
• 100 grams pumpkin, grated
• 1 carrot, grated
• 2 apples, peeled and grated
• 3 eggs
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 30 grams nuts (optional)

Directions:

1. Prepare the dry mixture: In a large bowl, combine oatmeal, baking powder, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Add the milk: Stir in the milk and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow the oats to soften.
3. Prepare fruits and vegetables: Chop the dried plums and apricots, and grate the pumpkin, carrot, and apples.
4. Mix in fruits and veggies: After 10 minutes, fold in the dried fruits, pumpkin, carrot, and apples.
5. Prepare wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the vegetable oil. Add this to the oatmeal mixture.
6. Optional: Stir in the nuts for added crunch and flavor.
7. Bake: Pour the mixture into a greased 18 cm baking dish and spread evenly. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
8. Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve warm with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey.
• Pair with a side of fresh fruit or a smoothie for a complete breakfast.
• Enjoy as a snack with a cup of tea or coffee.
• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert version.

Cooking Tips:

• For a sweeter bake, use a ripe banana instead of eggs.
• Make sure to grate the vegetables finely to ensure even texture throughout the bake.
• Use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
• Add a teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of flavor.

• Nutritional Benefits:

  • Rich in Fiber: Oats, fruits, and vegetables provide a good source of dietary fiber to support digestion.
  • Packed with Vitamins: The addition of pumpkin, carrots, and apples brings plenty of vitamins A and C.
  • Healthy Fats: The optional nuts and vegetable oil offer healthy fats that support heart health.
  • Low in Added Sugar: Naturally sweetened with fruits, this recipe avoids unnecessary sugars.

  Dietary Information:

  • Vegetarian
  • Dairy-Free (if using plant-based milk)
  • Gluten-Free (if using certified gluten-free oats)

  Nutritional Facts (per serving):

  • Calories: 210
  • Protein: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugars: 12g

  Storage:

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight and warm in the oven or microwave.

  Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Versatile: Enjoy it for breakfast, a snack, or even a healthy dessert.
  • Nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats.
  • Customizable: You can easily swap fruits or add more nuts to suit your preference.
  • Simple to Make: Requires minimal preparation and is perfect for meal prepping.

  Conclusion:

  This Oatmeal Fruit & Veggie Bake is a wholesome, delicious, and nutritious dish that can easily fit into a busy lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a healthy breakfast option or a filling snack, this bake provides all the energy and nourishment you need to get through your day. The natural sweetness from fruits and the added benefit of veggies make it a unique and flavorful option. Try it out for yourself, and you’ll see why this recipe is a favorite for those looking to balance taste with health.

  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  1. Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
     Yes, but the texture will be softer. Rolled oats provide more structure.
  2. Can I substitute the pumpkin?
     Yes, you can substitute it with sweet potatoes or squash for a similar taste and texture.
  3. Can I make this recipe vegan?
     Yes, you can replace the eggs with flaxseed eggs or mashed bananas, and use plant-based milk.
  4. Can I make it without dried fruit?
     Yes, but the dried fruits add sweetness. You can substitute with fresh fruits like blueberries or raisins.
  5. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
     Use certified gluten-free oats to make it gluten-free.
  6. Can I freeze this oatmeal bake?
     Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic or foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
  7. What can I use instead of vegetable oil?
     You can use melted coconut oil, olive oil, or unsweetened applesauce.
  8. Can I make this recipe in advance?
     Yes, you can prepare the mixture and store it in the fridge overnight, then bake it the next morning.
  9. How do I prevent the bake from being too dry?
     Make sure to let the oats soak for at least 10 minutes and ensure you don’t overbake it.
  10. Can I add protein powder to this recipe?
      Yes, you can mix in a scoop of protein powder to boost the protein content.