This is my take on those instant Strawberries and Cream instant oatmeal packets that you probably had as a kid. Or, you might even eat them now. I got the idea from my boyfriend who used to eat them and who loves my overnight oats.
I was trying to think of a way to infuse the strawberry flavor within the oats, and I came up with the idea of making a “dust” out of the freeze-dried strawberries, and stirring it into the oat mixture. It turned out to be a fantastic idea. I used vanilla coconut milk and garnished the oatmeal with more freeze-dried strawberries, coconut flakes, and fresh strawberries.
I am super happy with how this turned out.
Makes 3-4 servings.
2 c. vanilla coconut milk (not the canned coconut milk, the kind you get in the refrigerated milk section)
1 vanilla bean, seeds scraped out (you can use 1 tsp. vanilla extract as a substitute)
1 pinch salt
1 T. honey
3 1/2 T. strawberry “dust” from freeze-dried strawberries (I process mine in the food processor, but you could also mash them up with your hands or a mallet in a plastic bag) (I use Trader Joe’s brand)
1 1/2 T. chia seeds
1 1/2 c. old fashioned oats (not instant)
Fresh straberries for garnish
More freeze dried strawberries for garnish
Unsweetened flaked coconut for garnish
Begin by whisking together the coconut milk, vanilla bean seeds or extract, salt, honey, strawberry “dust”, and chia seeds in a medium bowl until combined. Next, stir in oats, and place in a container to let sit in the fridge to set for several hours or overnight.
When ready to serve, scoop into bowls and garnish with flaked coconut, freeze dried strawberries, and fresh strawberries! Enjoy. This is also great to take in a smaller container when you are on the run, or to work.
LOVE THIS.
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