Banana Chia Oatmeal

Today we had temperatures in the 60's. I know, say what?

It is Spring after all, but this is North Iowa folks, we've been having the coldest winter on record almost. In fact it snowed this last Thursday and believe it or not, tomorrow the forecast for northwest Minnesota is... SNOW.
Yep, good old snow. Not a sprinkling either, up to a foot. Yeah, you read that right, 12 inches deep.
Ugh!
 So... I am going to make sure I make this for breakfast, because when it's cold, this is the perfect way to start your day. Right?!

This hearty oatmeal is chock full of bananas, chia seeds for protein, drizzled in agave syrup or maple for sweetness. Top with more banana slices, even some nuts, you won't want to ever make another packet that instant glop again.

This ain't oatmeal for sissy's. 

The chia seeds plump up after cooking almost like tapioca. Chia seeds offer one of the richest food sources for omega-3 essential fatty acids. They are also rich in proteins, dietary fiber and antioxidants.

Of course when your family is eating this awesome oatmeal they won't care one lick about all the good nutrients they're getting. 

Shhh....

But you'll know. and that's all that is important, right? 

Ingredients:

2 cups oatmeal, not the instant kind either

2 tbsp chia seeds

2 cups milk

2 cups water

1 banana, sliced (more for garnish)

2 tbsp brown sugar

pinch salt

1 tsp vanilla

Agave or maple syrup

Directions:

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add in oats, milk and water. Stir and add in the banana. chia seeds, brown sugar and salt. Bring to a slight boil and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes. 
2. While stirring, mash the bananas. Add in vanilla and take off the heat. 
3. Serve with additional banana slices and drizzle with agave or maple syrup to taste. 

Enjoy!!  

This recipe is shared on My Link Parties

Also shared on Weekend Potluck 

and FoodieFriendsFriday