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Balanced Meal Plan Recipe

Balanced Meal Plan Recipe


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4.8 from 19 reviews

  • Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 2 1x

Description

Elevate weeknight dinners with this balanced meal plan recipe that brings Mediterranean-inspired simplicity to your kitchen. Wholesome ingredients and smart preparation create a nourishing experience you’ll savor from first bite to last.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 1/4 cup chia seeds
  • 1/4 cup rolled oats

Sweeteners and Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Toppings:

  • Sliced banana
  • Blueberries
  • Sprinkle of cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Mix chia seeds, rolled oats, almond milk, honey, and vanilla extract thoroughly in a medium-sized container, ensuring all ingredients are well integrated.
  2. Seal the container with a tight-fitting lid and place in the refrigerator for a minimum of 8 hours or throughout the night to allow ingredients to absorb liquid and develop a creamy texture.
  3. Remove the overnight oats from the refrigerator and gently stir to redistribute the settled ingredients, creating a smooth and consistent pudding-like consistency.
  4. Assess the thickness of the mixture, adding a splash of additional almond milk if the texture appears too dense or compact.
  5. Transfer the chilled oats to a serving bowl, creating an even base for toppings.
  6. Slice a ripe banana into thin, uniform rounds and carefully arrange them across the surface of the oats.
  7. Sprinkle fresh blueberries generously over the banana slices, distributing them evenly for balanced flavor and visual appeal.
  8. Dust the entire dish with a light layer of ground cinnamon, enhancing the overall taste profile and adding a warm, aromatic finish.

Notes

  • Soak chia seeds thoroughly to ensure maximum nutrient absorption and creamy texture.
  • Experiment with alternative milk options like coconut or oat milk for different flavor profiles and dietary needs.
  • Use ripe bananas for natural sweetness, reducing the need for additional honey or sweeteners.
  • Prepare multiple servings in advance for quick, grab-and-go breakfasts throughout the week, saving time during busy mornings.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 hours
  • Category: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: None
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 54 g
  • Fiber: 10 g
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg