This Oatmeal Fruit & Veggie Bake is a perfect combination of nutritious ingredients that fuel your body while keeping your taste buds happy. The combination of oats, fruits, and vegetables offers a hearty, filling dish that’s ideal for breakfast or a healthy snack. It’s easy to prepare, and the blend of dried fruits with fresh pumpkin and apples makes it naturally sweet without the need for added sugar. Packed with fiber and vitamins, this recipe is excellent for anyone looking for a balanced and delicious treat.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

• • 2 cups (200g) oatmeal

• • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• • A pinch of salt
  • 1 cup (240 ml) milk
  • 50 grams dried plums (prunes), chopped

• • 50 grams dried apricots, chopped
  • 1/2 cup (50g) cranberries
  • 100 grams pumpkin, grated

• • 1 carrot, grated
  • 2 apples, peeled and grated
  • 3 eggs

• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 30 grams nuts (optional)

Directions:

1. 1. Prepare the dry mixture: In a large bowl, combine oatmeal, baking powder, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt.

1. 1. Add the milk: Stir in the milk and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow the oats to soften.
   2. Prepare fruits and vegetables: Chop the dried plums and apricots, and grate the pumpkin, carrot, and apples.
   3. Mix in fruits and veggies: After 10 minutes, fold in the dried fruits, pumpkin, carrot, and apples.

1. 1. Prepare wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the vegetable oil. Add this to the oatmeal mixture.
   2. Optional: Stir in the nuts for added crunch and flavor.
   3. Bake: Pour the mixture into a greased 18 cm baking dish and spread evenly. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

1. Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• • Serve warm with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey.
  • Pair with a side of fresh fruit or a smoothie for a complete breakfast.

• Enjoy as a snack with a cup of tea or coffee.
• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert version.

Cooking Tips:

• • For a sweeter bake, use a ripe banana instead of eggs.

• • Make sure to grate the vegetables finely to ensure even texture throughout the bake.
  • Use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
  • Add a teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of flavor.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • Rich in Fiber: Oats, fruits, and vegetables provide a good source of dietary fiber to support digestion.
  • Packed with Vitamins: The addition of pumpkin, carrots, and apples brings plenty of vitamins A and C.
  • Healthy Fats: The optional nuts and vegetable oil offer healthy fats that support heart health.

• Low in Added Sugar: Naturally sweetened with fruits, this recipe avoids unnecessary sugars.

Dietary Information:

• • Vegetarian
  • Dairy-Free (if using plant-based milk)

• Gluten-Free (if using certified gluten-free oats)

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

• • Calories: 210
  • Protein: 6g

• • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Fiber: 5g

• Sugars: 12g

Storage:

• • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight and warm in the oven or microwave.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• • Versatile: Enjoy it for breakfast, a snack, or even a healthy dessert.
  • Nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats.
  • Customizable: You can easily swap fruits or add more nuts to suit your preference.

• Simple to Make: Requires minimal preparation and is perfect for meal prepping.

Conclusion:

This Oatmeal Fruit & Veggie Bake is a wholesome, delicious, and nutritious dish that can easily fit into a busy lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a healthy breakfast option or a filling snack, this bake provides all the energy and nourishment you need to get through your day. The natural sweetness from fruits and the added benefit of veggies make it a unique and flavorful option. Try it out for yourself, and you’ll see why this recipe is a favorite for those looking to balance taste with health.