This nutrient-packed breakfast is one of our favorites because it’s simple, satisfying, and easy to prepare ahead of time. Rolled oats and chia seeds create a creamy overnight base, while berries, walnuts, ground flaxseed, and cinnamon add freshness, texture, and extra nutrition.
It’s a delicious way to start the day with fiber, whole grains, healthy fats, and plenty of plant-based ingredients.
Makes: About 4 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: Overnight
Storage: Up to 3–4 days refrigerated
Equipment
- Medium bowl or container with lid
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or whisk
- Serving bowl
Ingredients
Oat & Chia Base
- ¾ cup rolled oats, not instant
- 3 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1¾ cups unsweetened vanilla almond milk
For Serving
- About ½ cup prepared oat and chia mixture
- Fresh berries
- Walnuts
- Ground flaxseeds
- Cinnamon
Instructions
Prepare the Oat & Chia Mixture
- Add the rolled oats and chia seeds to a bowl or container.
- Pour in the unsweetened vanilla almond milk.
- Mix well until the chia seeds are evenly distributed.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
Assemble Your Breakfast
- The next morning, add about ½ cup of the prepared oat and chia mixture to a serving bowl.
- Top with fresh berries.
- Add walnuts and a sprinkle of ground flaxseeds.
- Finish with cinnamon.
- Mix everything together and enjoy.
Storage & Meal Prep
Store the prepared oat and chia mixture in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
For the best texture, keep the berries and walnuts separate and add them just before serving.
Barefoot Nutrition Tip
Use unsweetened almond milk to help keep added sugars low. Berries provide natural sweetness, while walnuts and flaxseeds add satisfying texture along with beneficial fats and fiber.
If you want a higher-protein breakfast, pair your oats with Greek yogurt, Icelandic yogurt, cottage cheese, or eggs.
Why We Love It
This breakfast brings together several nutrient-dense plant foods in one simple bowl. Oats and chia seeds provide fiber and complex carbohydrates, while walnuts and ground flaxseeds contribute healthy unsaturated fats. Berries add fiber, vitamins, and naturally occurring antioxidants.
The best part is that the base is prepared the night before, making this an easy option for busy mornings and meal prep.
Check out Part 1 to see how the overnight oat and chia base is prepared.
Let’s eat more plants!
