Quick Oats Recipe- Banana Strawberry Oatmeal with Honey & Nuts

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Quick Oats Recipe – Banana Strawberry Oatmeal With Honey & Nuts

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, mornings can be… hectic. But that doesn’t mean you have to skip breakfast! This quick oats recipe is my go-to when I need something warm, comforting, and fast. It’s a beautiful bowl of goodness packed with fruit, nuts, and just the right amount of sweetness. I first made this when my niece came to stay, and it’s been a family favourite ever since. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This banana strawberry oatmeal isn’t just delicious; it’s incredibly versatile. It’s ready in under 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy weekdays. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra fruit and nutrients. Honestly, it feels like a little hug in a bowl!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful oatmeal:

• ½ cup quick cooking oats (approx. 40g)
• 1 cup skimmed milk (240ml)
• 1-2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (15-30ml)
• 1 medium banana, peeled and sliced
• 1 strawberry, hulled and sliced
• 1 tbsp dried cranberries (approx. 15g)
• 2 tbsp sliced almonds (approx. 14g)
• 1 tbsp green raisins (approx. 10g)
• 2-3 dates, pitted and chopped

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips from my kitchen to yours:

Quick Cooking Oats: Types & Benefits

Quick cooking oats are the star here – they cook up in minutes! Don’t confuse them with instant oats (which can be mushy) or rolled oats (which take longer). Quick oats still retain a good amount of fibre, giving you a sustained energy boost.

Skimmed Milk: Alternatives for Creamier Oatmeal

I use skimmed milk to keep things lighter, but feel free to experiment! Whole milk will give you a richer, creamier texture. You can also use almond milk, soy milk, or even coconut milk for a vegan option. About 240ml is perfect for this serving.

Honey vs. Maple Syrup: Flavor Profiles & Sweetness

This is a personal preference! Honey offers a floral sweetness, while maple syrup has a more caramel-like flavour. I usually go with maple syrup, but honey is lovely too. Adjust the amount to your liking – 1-2 tablespoons is a good starting point.

Dried Cranberries: Regional Variations & Health Benefits

Dried cranberries add a lovely tartness that balances the sweetness. You can find them easily in most supermarkets. They’re also packed with antioxidants! Sometimes I like to use goji berries instead for a different flavour.

Nuts & Seeds: Boosting Nutrition & Texture

Almonds are my favourite for this recipe, but walnuts, pecans, or even chia seeds would work beautifully. They add a satisfying crunch and healthy fats.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s super simple, I promise.

1. Pour the skimmed milk into a saucepan and heat it over medium heat until it reaches a gentle boil. Keep an eye on it – we don’t want it to overflow!
2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and skim off any foam that forms on the surface. This just makes for a smoother oatmeal.
3. Add the quick cooking oats to the saucepan and simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is where the magic happens! The oats will absorb the milk and thicken up.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in your honey or maple syrup to taste.
5. Transfer the oatmeal to a serving bowl.
6. Now for the fun part! Arrange the banana slices, strawberry slices, cranberries, almonds, raisins, and dates on top. Get creative with your arrangement!
7. Serve immediately while warm. Trust me, it’s best enjoyed right away for the perfect texture and flavour.

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years to make this oatmeal even better:

Achieving the Perfect Oatmeal Consistency

If your oatmeal is too thick, add a splash more milk. If it’s too thin, simmer for another minute or two.

Preventing Oatmeal from Sticking

A non-stick saucepan is your best friend here! Stirring frequently also helps prevent sticking.

Enhancing Flavor with Spices

A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can take this oatmeal to the next level. I sometimes add a tiny dash of cardamom for a warm, fragrant flavour.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Oatmeal

Simply use plant-based milk (almond, soy, or coconut) and maple syrup instead of honey.

Gluten-Free Oatmeal

Make sure your oats are certified gluten-free if you have a gluten intolerance.

Adjusting Sweetness Levels

Reduce or increase the amount of honey or maple syrup to suit your taste. You can also use other natural sweeteners like dates or stevia.

Spice Level (Adding Cinnamon or Nutmeg)

A ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg adds a lovely warmth.

Festival Adaptations (Adding Seasonal Fruits)

During the holidays, I love adding chopped apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon. In the summer, berries are always a good choice!

Serving Suggestions

This oatmeal is delicious on its own, but you can also pair it with a side of fresh fruit or a glass of milk. It’s a great breakfast, brunch, or even a light dessert.

Storage Instructions

Oatmeal is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You may need to add a splash of milk when reheating to restore the creamy texture.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

What is the best type of milk to use for oatmeal?

It really depends on your preference! Skimmed milk is lighter, whole milk is creamier, and plant-based milks are great for vegan options.

Can I make oatmeal ahead of time?

You can, but the texture will change. It’s best to cook it fresh for the best results.

How do I prevent my oatmeal from becoming gummy?

Don’t overcook it! Quick cooking oats cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them.

What are some healthy toppings for oatmeal?

The possibilities are endless! Fruit, nuts, seeds, and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup are all great choices.

Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh fruit?

Absolutely! Frozen fruit is just as nutritious and can be a convenient option. Just add it to the oatmeal while it’s cooking so it has time to thaw.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy bowl of banana strawberry oatmeal! Let me know in the comments what variations you try. Happy cooking!