Vanilla and Fig Overnight Oats

in Recipes

Did you guys know that I minored in Classics in college? You better believe it! I not only learned the ways of the ancients, but I had the opportunity to study abroad in both Italy and Greece. Best minor ever.

This means I’m slightly obsessed with ancient Greek and Italian culture, art, architecture, and food. I completely nerded out visiting both the Pantheon and Parthenon, museums are my happy place, and Pompeii nearly made me cry. Nerd alert.

What does this have to do with overnight oats? Absolutely nothing. Except for the figs!

Fresh Figs were the ancient’s sweetest candy. Romans gifted each other figs on the first day of the New Year, the Greeks considered the fig tree sacred, and figs are even mentioned in Homer’s Ulysses. (Sorry I’m such a nerd.) In fact, the Greeks even created laws to ban exporting figs to other countries, wanting to keep all the figgy goodness for themselves.

I have to say, no shame in that.

Anyways, the Greeks & Romans loved them, and I love them too. They are a fantastic source of fiber, vitamins, calcium, and prebiotics, which support good bacteria in your gut. They’re subtly sweet with a delightful crunch from their yummy seeds and they make the greatest addition to vanilla overnight oatmeal.

Eat (figs), drink (green juice), and be merry!

Vanilla and Fig Overnight Oats

Serves 2

2 cups rolled oats
2 cups almond milk, unsweetened
1 vanilla bean pod
1 Tablespoon chia seeds
3 dates, pits removed
4 fresh figs

Method:

In a large jar or bowl add rolled oats and chia seeds and set aside.

Using a pairing knife gently split vanilla bean pod lengthwise into two halves. Carefully scrape out the tiny black seeds from the pod and place in a blender. Add to blender the almond milk, dates, and figs and blend until mixture is fully incorporated.

Pour the delicious smelling fig & vanilla milk over oats and stir to combine. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

In the morning top oats with fresh figs, nuts, and a drizzle of honey if desired. Enjoy!

Nourishing Notes:

-Gluten free? Opt for certified gluten free rolled oats.
-No fresh figs? Swap with 4-6 dried figs and omit dates when blending.

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