Oatmeal is delightful, what can I say? It is versatile, easy to prepare, and can be enjoyed any time of day. It is also full of antioxidants, soluble fiber, and iron. Couple a bowl of oatmeal a day with a diet lower in saturated and trans fats and you have a two-punch team to decrease your LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol). Oats are considered heart-healthy and help control blood glucose levels as well. But all right, enough science: let’s eat them!

Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal

• 1/2 cup oatmeal
• 1 cup plant milk of choice
• 1 – 2 Tbsp unsweetened cacao powder (your preference)
• 1 Tbsp smooth peanut butter
• 1 Tbsp ground flax seeds (see my previous post about these!)
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp agave nectar, or sweetener of choice (optional)
• 1 Tbsp vegan chocolate chips
• Fruit topping of choice (sliced banana, strawberries, blueberries, etc.)

1. Stir together oatmeal, plant milk, cacao powder, peanut butter, flax seeds, vanilla extract, and agave nectar into a microwave-safe bowl. I recommend using a small sifter for the cacao powder to break up any lumps.
2. Microwave the mixture for 90 seconds.
3. Remove from microwave and stir mixture until well-combined. Top with chocolate chips and desired fruit topping. I added 1 tsp of cinnamon powder as well!

You can also combine these for overnight oats. Combine all ingredients except chocolate chips and fruit and place in the fridge overnight. I recommend heating them before eating since the peanut butter and cacao powder break down easier with heat. You can enjoy these oats every morning and get a power pack of nutrients all in one bowl. And come on – who doesn’t love an excuse to eat chocolate for breakfast? Have a lovely day!