On the Go Oatmeal Parfait

Research has shown that people who eat breakfast have a lower BMI, do better in school, and are more productive that those who forgo breakfast. With a busy schedule during my dietetic internship, having breakfast is essential to beginning my day. 

This is a recipe from my aunt, Linda Hafner's, cookbook Simple, Fresh, & Healthy: a Collection of Seasonal Recipes. This recipe needs to be made the night before in order to blend the flavors and allow the yogurt to interact with the oatmeal -- I recommend whipping up a batch on Sunday evening to consume throughout the week. Check out my breakfast!!!

Although this meal is not high in calories, it is still important to watch portion sizes. I recommend portioning the oatmeal and berries into individual containers and store in the fridge. Then you can grab a healthy, low calorie breakfast on-the-go!  

On-The-Go Oatmeal Parfait
Serves: 4-6 (~1 cup each)

Ingredients:
2 cups oatmeal, uncooked (not instant)
8 oz. carton plain low-fat yogurt (if you prefer sweeter use low-fat vanilla yogurt)
2 cups sliced fresh (or thawed) strawberries and blueberries -- substitute with peaches, apple slices, bananas, or pineapple
1 1/2 cups apple juice
1 tsp vanilla extract

1. In a bowl, combine oatmeal, yogurt, fruit, apple juice, and vanilla.
2. Cover and refrigerate 8 hours or overnight. May be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days before serving.

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 212
Protein: 7g
Carbohydrates: 41g
Fat: 3g
Fiber: 5g
Cholesterol: 3mg
Sodium: 28mg