Sure, oats can be a bit bland, but think of them as a blank slate: they absorb the flavor of whatever you mix in. Plus, they pack a ton of health benefits—especially the steel-cut variety “The grain’s nutrients, like fiber, are fully intact. Plus, they’re sodium-free, which is rare when it comes to breakfast foods,” says Elisa Zied, R.D., a nutritionist based in New York City.
Ready to dig in? Skip the sugar-heavy insta oatmeal packets and go for the real deal. Leftovers keep in the fridge for a week, so make a big batch over the weekend and reheat before you dash out the door. Here’s how to do it: Bring about three cups of water or milk to a boil, then mix in one cup of steel cut oats and a pinch of salt. Simmer, uncovered, for 20–30 minutes, stirring every few minutes so that the bottom doesn’t burn.
Once that’s done, it’s time to take your bowl from “ho-hum” to “holy crap!” Amp up the flavor—and nutritional content—with these six add-ins.
Whether fresh, frozen, pureed, or dried, fruit is a great complement to oats. The juices provide just enough sweetness, without having to resort to artificial additives. Try a spoonful of blueberries, which are packed with antioxidants, or stir in some all-fruit jam for a thicker consistency. Dried cranberries and apricots are also delicious, especially when paired with some crushed walnuts, almonds, or pecans. The nuts pack health benefits, too: a daily dose of walnuts could help lower your LDL cholesterol, according to a 2010 study.
