Summer is all about light, colorful meals that will keep you cooled off in the hot weather. And what is a better way to kick off a hot summer day than a filling, nutritious smoothie? By adding rolled oats, these smoothies have protein and fibre that will give you an energy boost for the day.

This recipe is fully customizable! Simply start with the basic two ingredients: rolled oats and milk (or milk alternatives such as unsweetened, fortified soy/almond/rice milk). Then choose two of your favorite ingredients (or what's available in your kitchen) and finish it off with healthy garnishes such as unsalted nuts and seeds, some dried fruit, or some unsweetened shredded coconut.

Time saving tip: Prepare all of your smoothie ingredients ahead of time, store in an airtight container (fridge or freezer), toss in the blender in the morning, and enjoy on-the-go!

Pictures by Diala Shaheen

Ingredients (for 1 serving):

Chocolate dates smoothie:

• 1 cup milk (low-fat or skimmed)

• 1/2 cup rolled oats

• 1 Majdool date, pitted and cut

• 1/2 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder

Summer fruit smoothie:

• 1 cup buttermilk (low-fat)

• 1/2 cup rolled oats

• 1 cup- 2 summer fruits (Mango, papaya, strawberries,…), fresh or frozen.

Garnish:

• Shredded coconut

• Chia seeds, linseeds, pumpkin seeds,…

• Walnuts, almonds, cashews.

• Dried fruits

• Some crunchy granola

Recipe:

1. Prepare all the ingredients.

2. Blend together rolled oats, milk or buttermilk, and finish it off with cut fruits or dates and cocoa powder.

3. Blend until fully incorporated and smooth.

4. Serve in a bowl or a cup to-go and garnish with your favorite toppings.

#breakfast #healthyrecipe #smoothie #smoothiebowl #vegetarian #vegan