healthy – Pretty Little Pastimes

It’s that time again! The day is here that we get to set aside special time to celebrate the creamy (or crunchy) wonder that is PEANUT BUTTER! I was scratching my head Saturday night thinking of a way to incorporate my favorite all-natural peanut butter into my breakfast routine. So I decided to mix it into some oatmeal and voila! Peanut Butter & Chia Overnight Oats. Enjoy!

Peanut Butter & Chia Overnight Oats

2/3 cup skim or almond milk
1/4 cup steel cut oats
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 and 1/2 tablespoons peanut butter
1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon honey
fresh blueberries or banana

Mix together the milk, oats, chia, vanilla and one tablespoon of peanut butter and place in the refrigerator overnight (or at least 4 hours). In the morning stir to incorporate and top with remaining peanut butter, honey and fresh fruit. I packed mine in a mason jar so it I could grab it on my way out the door.

When I heard it was National Peanut Butter Lover’s Day, I knew this was one occasion I would gladly celebrate! Since I didn’t want to wait until dessert to indulge in the creamy good stuff, I decided to make a breakfast smoothie that would make any self-proclaimed Peanut Butter Lover proud. Not only is it filling, it is also a great source of protein, potassium and Omega-3 fatty acids, fiber and antioxidants, from the chia seeds. If you prefer a sweeter smoothie, you can also add a couple drops of natural sweetener or honey.

Peanut Butter Banana Chia Smoothie

1 large ripe banana
1 cup almond milk (I used dark chocolate flavored)
2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
2 tablespoons old fashioned oats
1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
handful of ice cubes

Start by soaking the old fashioned oats and chia seeds in the almond milk for 15 minutes to soften. Place all ingredients in a high speed blender until frothy and creamy. Serve immediately.

I don’t normally pay attention to these funny daily “holidays”, but if it gives me an excuse to snack on peanut butter for the day, I just might begin to add them to my calendar. Enjoy!