Are you looking for an easy breakfast that is perfect for summertime? Look no further than these overnight refrigerator porridge jars that your toddler will love- and you will adore the hidden nutrients! 
There’s been recent buzz surrounding the health benefits of chia seeds lately, but finding a way to sneak them into your toddler’s daily diet may pose a challenge for parents of picky eaters.
Why are chia seeds so good for you?
- Chia seeds are full of omega 3 fatty acids. In fact, they are composed 60% of omega 3’s, making them the highest plant-based form of omega 3s available. Chia seeds are amazing for toddlers because one of the things that omega 3s have been proven to enhance is cognitive performance.
- Chia seeds are an excellent source of fiber. They contain 10 grams of fiber per 2 tablespoons!
- Chia seeds are rich in antioxidants. In addition, they have a shelf life of two years without refrigeration.
- Chia seeds are naturally gluten-free.
Overnight oatmeal jars are a delicious option for breakfast, and are very easy to whip together the night before. The flavor combinations are endless, and can easily be changed depending on local seasonal fruit availability.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup regular old fashioned oats
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1/4 cup greek yogurt (regular yogurt can be used, however, adjust your milk amount to 1/2 cup)
- 1.5 teaspoons chia seeds
Next two ingredients can be customized depending on recipe
- 1-2 teaspoons natural sweetener (we suggest pure maple syrup or honey, depending on recipe)
- 1/4 cup fresh fruit
How To:
Place oats, chia seeds, milk, and yogurt into a glass jar and screw the top on. Shake well. Open jar and add in desired sweeteners and fruit until the jar is full. Place in refrigerator overnight (6-8 hours.) Oatmeal jars have a shelf life of 3-4 days refrigerated, depending on the normal shelf life of the fruit you used.
Recipe Combo Ideas:
- Apple & cinnamon. Use 1/4 cup of natural unsweetened apple sauce, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon.
- Blueberry and maple syrup.
- Peanut butter and banana. Use 1 teaspoon of PB2 and a whole banana.
- Chocolate peanut butter & banana. Add in a teaspoon of regular cocoa powder to above recipe.
- Raspberry and natural vanilla extract.
- Mango and honey.
- Lemon strawberry. Add in 1 teaspoon of lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon honey and fresh strawberries.
- Pumpkin “Pie”. Add in 1/4 cup canned pumpkin, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, and maple syrup.
Have fun experimenting with different flavors! If you have an awesome flavor combo, leave it for us in the comment section.
Photo Credits: The Memoirs of Megan
