Baked Blueberry Banana Chia Seed Oatmeal

The fine people at Bob's Red Mill sent me some chia seeds to experiment with.

Before that the only chia thing I new of was THIS! (Chia Britney... how brilliant. I will be putting that on my Christmas List next year).

Anywho, after doing some research chia seeds are the new super food! They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, full of protein to give you energy, excellent source of fiber and antioxidant, and contain six grams of fiber in just one tablespoon!

Best thing about these are that they are virtually tastless- add a tablespoon to your cereal or make this Baked Oatmeal & you're good to go.

Step aside kale & acai berries... chia seeds are here to stay.

This Baked Blueberry Banana Chia Seed Oatmeal is so delicious, fruity, wholesome and super healthy. It'll keep you full & satisfied all morning long.

Baked Blueberry Banana Chia Seed Oatmeal

(makes 6 servings)

INGREDIENTS:

2 medium ripe bananas, (the riper the better) sliced into 1/2" pieces

2 cups fresh blueberries

3/4 tsp cinnamon

1 cup uncooked quick oats

1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

1/2 tsp baking powder

1/2 cup chia seeds

pinch of salt

1/4 cup agave nectar (or honey)

1 cup whole milk

1 tsp vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 375° F. Lightly spray a 9X9” ceramic dish with nonstick cooking spray.

2. Arrange the banana slices in a single layer on the bottom of the ceramic dish. Sprinkle half of the blueberries (1 cup) and 1/4 tsp. of the cinnamon over the bananas and cover with foil. Bake 15 minutes at 375, until the bananas get soft.

3. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, combine the oats, half of nuts (1/4 cup), baking powder, remaining cinnamon (1/2 tsp.), chia seeds and salt; stir together.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the agave, milk and vanilla extract.

5. Remove the bananas from the oven. Then pour the oat mixture over the baked bananas and blueberries.

7. Pour the milk mixture over the oats, making sure to distribute the mixture as evenly as possible over the oats. Sprinkle the remaining blueberries (1 cup) and walnuts (1/4 cup) over the top.

8. Bake the oatmeal for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oatmeal has set. Serve warm from the oven.

Recipe By: Mini Baker