Savory Oatmeal

If your regular oatmeal routine has gotten ho-hum enough to have you yawning till lunch, it’s time to shake things up. Make savory oatmeal for an eye-opening twist on this breakfast classic. While most people associate oatmeal with sweet flavors, incorporating fresh vegetables, herbs and savory seasonings can transform this humble grain into a hearty and flavorful dish.

This version relies on tomato, olives and cheese to add satisfying umami-packed flavor to your morning meal. Easy to prepare and customize with your favorite toppings, savory oatmeal will surprise your taste buds and keep you full and energized. And if a garlicky bowl of oats is really not your breakfast jam, save it for lunch or dinner. This recipe is a slam dunk any time of day.

Savory Oatmeal Ingredients

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• Chicken broth: The reduced-sodium chicken broth provides a savory base and depth of flavor while keeping the dish’s sodium content in check.
• Tomato: Chopped tomato adds a fresh, tangy flavor and some moisture, enhancing the overall texture and taste of the dish.
• Quick-cooking oats: Oats are the backbone of this dish, contributing to the hearty substance and acting as a blank canvas for the other flavors.
• Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with a pungent, aromatic flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• Greek olives: These chopped olives introduce a briny, salty taste, adding complexity and enhancing the Mediterranean profile of the dish.
• Fresh basil: Chopped fresh basil adds a bright, herbaceous note, making the flavors pop and giving each bite a fresh, aromatic finish.
• Additional toppings (optional): A bit more chopped fresh basil offers an extra fresh, vibrant flavor, while grated Parmesan cheese provides a rich, umami depth and a touch of saltiness. A sunny-side-up egg provides a creamy texture and additional protein, enriching the dish, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over your bowl enhances the dish with a smooth, fruity flavor and added healthy fat.

Directions

Step 1: Heat the broth

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In a small saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Add the oatmeal

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Once the broth is boiling, stir in the tomato, oats and garlic. Reduce the heat to low, and let the mixture simmer for two minutes, allowing the oats to soften and the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Add the olives and basil

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Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the olives and basil.

Step 4: Garnish and serve

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Before serving, top the oatmeal with chopped basil, grated Parmesan, a sunny-side-up egg and a drizzle of virgin olive oil, as desired.

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Savory Oatmeal Variations

• Add black beans, corn and salsa: Mix in black beans, sweet corn and spicy salsa to create a Southwestern-inspired bowl.
• Stir in caramelized onions and blue cheese: Combine the sweetness of caramelized onions with the bold flavor of blue cheese.
• Top with kimchi and a fried egg: Give your oatmeal a Korean flair by adding spicy kimchi and a perfectly fried egg.
• Mix in pesto and sun-dried tomatoes: Infuse your dish with Italian flavors by stirring in vibrant pesto and tangy sun-dried tomatoes.
• Add turkey and peppers: Boost the protein by incorporating seasoned ground turkey and sweet roasted red peppers.

How to Store Savory Oatmeal

The best way to store savory oatmeal is to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Once it’s in the container, you can refrigerate it for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat it again, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain the desired consistency.

Can you freeze savory oatmeal?

Yes, you can freeze savory oatmeal. Let the oatmeal cool down completely before portioning it into airtight, freezer-safe containers or resealable plastic bags. Label the containers with the date, and freeze them for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the oatmeal in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it in a small pot on the stove or in the microwave.

Savory Oatmeal Tips

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What do savory oatmeal recipes taste like?

Savory oatmeal has an intense flavor that combines the creamy texture of oats with bold ingredients like garlic, broth and vegetables. It can be similar to risotto. The taste is often enhanced by adding aromatic herbs, tangy tomatoes and briny olives, creating a satisfying and well-rounded dish. Depending on the toppings and variations you choose, it can have a range of flavors, from earthy and robust to bright and fresh.

What spices can you add to savory oatmeal?

You can add a variety of spices to enhance the flavor of savory oatmeal. Popular options include black pepper for a subtle heat, smoked paprika for a smoky depth and cumin for an earthy, warm flavor. You can also add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper for some extra spice, or a touch of turmeric for its yellow color and earthy flavor. For a more complex profile, consider incorporating spice blends like Italian seasoning, garam masala or za’atar.

Is savory oatmeal a good option for meal prep?

Yes, savory oatmeal is an excellent option for meal prep. It’s easy to make in large batches and stores well in the refrigerator or freezer. You can prepare a big pot of savory oatmeal, portion it into individual containers, and have a convenient, nutritious meal ready to go for several days. Plus, it reheats well, especially when you add a splash of broth or water to maintain the desired consistency, making it a practical and versatile choice for busy weeks.