This Healthy Zucchini Blueberry Baked Oatmeal is a tasty breakfast that feels like a treat! Packed with wholesome oats, fresh zucchini, and sweet blueberries, it’s both filling and nutritious.
I love making this dish on Sunday so I can enjoy it all week. It’s super easy to prep, and the warm, fruity smell makes the house feel cozy—perfect for starting the day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are perfect for this recipe as they absorb moisture well. If you don’t have rolled oats, quick oats can also work, but they may give a slightly different texture.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key to adding moisture and nutrition. If zucchini isn’t available, you could try grated carrots or even mashed bananas for a different flavor.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries give the best taste, but feel free to use frozen ones if that’s what you have. Just make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid extra moisture.
Sweetener: Maple syrup adds a nice flavor, but honey works too. For a sugar-free option, you can use agave syrup or a stevia blend.
Milk: Unsweetened almond milk is light and dairy-free, but any milk, including cow’s milk, oat milk, or soy milk, can be used without affecting the recipe significantly.
How Do I Get Moisture from Zucchini Without Making the Oatmeal Soggy?
Removing excess moisture from zucchini is crucial for this recipe. Here’s how to do it:
- Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor.
- Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
- Twist the towel to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. You want it grated and moist but not swimming in water.
This will help your baked oatmeal stay firm and not mushy, giving you that perfect texture to enjoy each morning!
Healthy Zucchini Blueberry Baked Oatmeal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 cup grated zucchini (approximately 1 medium zucchini, squeezed to remove excess moisture)
- 1 cup fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed and drained)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans), optional
- 1 tbsp chia seeds or ground flaxseeds (optional for extra nutrition)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to bake. After that, let it cool for a few minutes, and you’re ready to enjoy a slice. Altogether, plan for about 1 hour for preparation and baking time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish with coconut oil or a non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir to mix everything together evenly.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and maple syrup (or honey). Make sure these ingredients are well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until everything is combined and moist.
5. Fold in Veggies and Berries:
Add the grated zucchini and blueberries to the mixture. If you’re using nuts or seeds, fold those in as well. Be gentle to keep the blueberries intact!
6. Prepare for Baking:
Pour the oat mixture into the greased baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly across the dish for even baking.
7. Bake:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is a lovely golden color and the center has set.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice into squares and serve warm. You can enjoy it plain or with a splash of milk or yogurt on top!
Enjoy this delicious, nourishing baked oatmeal as a perfect healthy breakfast or snack!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Another Type of Milk?
Absolutely! You can use any kind of milk you prefer, such as cow’s milk, oat milk, or soy milk. Just keep in mind that using flavored milk may alter the taste of the baked oatmeal.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. You can reheat servings in the microwave or oven. For the microwave, heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use certified gluten-free rolled oats to make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet. This will allow you to enjoy this delicious dish without worries!
Can I Add More Fruits or Nuts?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other fruits like chopped apples, raspberries, or sliced bananas. You can also add different nuts or seeds such as almonds or pumpkin seeds to boost the flavor and nutrition.
