Looking for a breakfast that’s like a warm hug in a bowl? This Peanut Butter & Banana Oatmeal Bowl is it! It’s simple to make, totally delicious, and will keep you full and happy until lunchtime. Plus, it’s a healthy way to start your day and it’s under 250 calories per serving!
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Why is this oatmeal bowl so awesome?
Oatmeal is a breakfast superstar because it’s packed with fibre to keep you feeling full and energized. Adding peanut butter and banana makes it taste like a treat, but it’s still good for you! This bowl is perfect for busy mornings when you want something quick and satisfying.
Recipe: Peanut Butter & Banana Oatmeal Bowl (Under 250 Calories)
This recipe serves 1 person.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rolled Oats | 1/2 cup (40g) |
| Water or Milk (unsweetened almond milk for lower calories) | 1 cup (240ml) |
| Banana | 1/2 medium |
| Peanut Butter (natural, no added sugar) | 1 tablespoon (15g) |
| Cinnamon | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Chia Seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Optional: Honey or Maple Syrup | 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste) |
Instructions:
- Cook the oatmeal: In a small saucepan, combine the rolled oats and water (or milk). Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oatmeal is creamy and cooked through. You can also cook your oats in the microwave according to package directions.
- Slice the banana: While the oatmeal is cooking, slice half a banana.
- Assemble the bowl: Pour the cooked oatmeal into a bowl.
- Add toppings: Top the oatmeal with the sliced banana, peanut butter, cinnamon, and chia seeds.
- Sweeten (optional): If you like it a little sweeter, drizzle with a tiny bit of honey or maple syrup.
- Stir and enjoy! Mix everything together and dig in while it’s warm and delicious.
Macro Breakdown (per serving, approximate, using water and no added sweetener):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 240 |
| Protein | 9g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Carbohydrates | 33g |
Note: Macros are estimates and can vary slightly depending on the specific brands and sizes of ingredients used. Using milk instead of water, or adding sweetener, will increase the calorie and macro counts.
Tips for Making Your Bowl Even Better:
- Creamy oats: For extra creamy oatmeal, use milk instead of water. Unsweetened almond milk is a lower calorie option than dairy milk.
- Banana ripeness: Slightly ripe bananas are best – they’re sweeter and easier to digest.
- Peanut butter power: Natural peanut butter is the healthiest choice because it usually has no added sugar or oils. Make sure to stir it well as the oil can separate.
- Spice it up: A pinch of nutmeg or ginger along with the cinnamon can add a warm and cozy flavour.
- Make it ahead: You can cook the oatmeal ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just add a splash of water or milk when reheating to loosen it up. Add the fresh banana and toppings just before serving.
Want to Mix it Up? Try These Ingredient Swaps:
- Oatmeal:
- Try quick oats if you are really short on time, but rolled oats are a bit healthier and have a better texture.
- Steel-cut oats can be used, but they take longer to cook.
- Banana:
- Any fruit works! Try berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), diced apple, or peaches.
- Nut Butter:
- Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter are all great swaps for peanut butter.
- For a nut-free option, use tahini (sesame seed paste) or sunflower seed butter.
- Toppings:
- Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) for crunch.
- Flax seeds or hemp seeds can be used instead of or in addition to chia seeds for extra healthy fats and fibre.
- A few chocolate chips (dark chocolate is healthier!) can make it extra decadent.
- A swirl of yogurt (Greek yogurt for extra protein) can add creaminess and tang.
What to Eat with Your Oatmeal Bowl:
This Peanut Butter & Banana Oatmeal Bowl is a complete breakfast on its own, but if you want to add to it:
- A glass of milk or a dairy-free alternative: To drink alongside your bowl.
- A piece of fruit: An extra piece of fruit like an orange or apple.
- A hard-boiled egg: For even more protein.
Is this Bowl Right for My Diet?
This Peanut Butter & Banana Oatmeal Bowl can be a great choice for many diets:
- Vegetarian: Yes! This recipe is vegetarian.
- Vegan: Yes, if you use water or plant-based milk and maple syrup instead of honey.
- Gluten-Free: Yes, if you use certified gluten-free oats.
- Dairy-Free: Yes, if you use water or plant-based milk.
- Calorie-Conscious: Yes! Under 250 calories makes it a good choice for a lighter breakfast.
Enjoy your warm and comforting Peanut Butter & Banana Oatmeal Bowl!
