This Healthy Zucchini Blueberry Baked Oatmeal is a yummy way to start your day! Packed with fresh zucchini and sweet blueberries, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
I love how simple it is to make—just mix, pour, and bake! Perfect for breakfast or a snack. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies. Who knew healthy could taste so good? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are the base for your baked oatmeal. You can use quick oats if you’re in a hurry, but avoid instant oats as they might make the texture mushy.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds moisture and nutrition. If you can’t find zucchini, you might try shredding carrots or using mashed banana, though the flavor will vary.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are ideal, but frozen ones work just as well. If you don’t have blueberries, feel free to swap them with chopped apples or cranberries for a different taste.
Maple Syrup/Honey: Both sweeteners add natural sweetness. You can replace them with agave nectar or a sugar substitute like stevia, adjusting the amounts to your taste.
Milk: You can use any milk you prefer, including almond, soy, or oat milk. If you’re avoiding dairy, opt for a nut milk for a rich flavor!
How Do I Properly Prepare Zucchini for Baking?
Getting your zucchini ready is an important step. If there’s too much moisture, your oatmeal might become soggy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor.
- Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or multiple paper towels.
- Press it firmly to squeeze out excess moisture. It’s okay if some moisture remains, just remove the excess.
This way, your baked oatmeal will turn out perfectly fluffy and not watery!
Healthy Zucchini Blueberry Baked Oatmeal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Wet Mixture:
- 1 ½ cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup or honey
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil or melted butter
For the Add-Ins:
- 1 ½ cups shredded zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, squeezed dry)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (optional, such as walnuts or pecans)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and 40–45 minutes of baking time, making the total time around 1 hour. It’s the perfect wholesome meal you can whip up in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking dish by greasing a 9×9-inch dish or any similar ovenproof dish. This will help the oatmeal come out easily after baking!
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. This combination will provide a great base for your baked oatmeal.
3. Prepare the Wet Mixture:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil (or butter). Make sure everything is well combined to create a smooth mixture.
4. Prep the Zucchini:
Grate the zucchini using a box grater. To remove excess moisture, place the grated zucchini onto a clean kitchen towel or paper towel and squeeze it gently. This step is important to prevent your baked oatmeal from becoming soggy!
5. Combine Mixes:
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients, and stir until everything is well mixed. Then, gently fold in the shredded zucchini, blueberries, and nuts (if you’re using them).
6. Bake the Oatmeal:
Pour the combined mixture into your greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Let your baked oatmeal cool for a few minutes before slicing it up. Enjoy it warm, and consider adding some extra fresh blueberries or a drizzle of maple syrup on top for a delicious touch!
This delightful baked oatmeal can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can easily reheat it for a quick and healthy breakfast. Happy baking!
FAQ for Healthy Zucchini Blueberry Baked Oatmeal
Can I Use Different Sweeteners in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use honey, agave nectar, or even a sugar substitute like stevia if you prefer a lower-calorie option. Just remember to adjust the quantity to suit your taste and check the specific conversion recommendations for substitutes!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover baked oatmeal in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. It’s a great option for quick breakfasts!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make it vegan! Simply substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) and use plant-based milk and coconut oil. You’ll still get a delicious result!
What Can I Substitute for Zucchini?
If you don’t have zucchini, you could try using shredded carrots or even mashed bananas for a different flavor twist! Just remember that different vegetables may alter the overall moisture—be sure to adjust as needed!
