Strawberry Banana Protein Oats

Name: Strawberry Banana Protein Oats
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 2 cups almond milk (or any milk of choice); 1 tablespoon chia seeds; 1 ripe banana, sliced; 1 cup strawberries, hulled and chopped; 2 scoops protein powder (vanilla or unflavored); Sweetener to taste (honey, maple syrup, or stevia)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love starting my day with a wholesome breakfast, and the Strawberry Banana Protein Oats have become my go-to dish. Packed with nutrients and flavor, this recipe seamlessly blends the sweetness of ripe strawberries and bananas with the creaminess of oats. In just 20 minutes, I can indulge in a nourishing meal that keeps me energized throughout the morning. Whether I'm in a rush or enjoying a leisurely breakfast, these oats always satisfy my cravings for something delicious and nutritious.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-27T09:33:27.641Z

When I first tried making Strawberry Banana Protein Oats, I was skeptical about how satisfying a bowl of oats could be. However, blending the flavors of fresh fruit with protein-rich oats turned out to be a game-changer. The combination not only provides the right balance of nutrients, but it also tastes amazing and keeps me full for hours.

To enhance the dish, I experimented with adding a dollop of Greek yogurt on top, which gives it a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the banana and strawberry. Trust me, this small addition makes a significant difference in both flavor and nutrition!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh fruits add a burst of flavor and nutrition
High protein content keeps you full longer
Quick and easy breakfast that can be made in advance

Perfecting Your Oats

Cooking oats may seem straightforward, but achieving the perfect texture is key. I recommend using rolled oats instead of instant oats for this recipe, as they provide a chewier consistency and better absorb the liquid. When bringing your oat mixture to a boil, keep an eye on it to prevent overflow. Once it reaches a gentle boil, reduce the heat to maintain a steady simmer, which ensures thorough cooking without burning or clumping.

To thicken your oats without making them sticky, consider adjusting the heat. Simmering them long enough allows the starches to release, creating a creamy and velvety texture. If your oats seem too liquidy, let them simmer for a couple of extra minutes until thickened to your desired creaminess. Remember, the oats will continue to absorb liquid even after removing from heat.

Fruity Additions and Adjustments

Adding fruits not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of your protein oats. I love folding in ripe bananas, which lend natural sweetness and creaminess. Additionally, strawberries provide a refreshing tartness that balances the dish. Feel free to experiment with other fruits like blueberries or peaches, depending on seasonality and personal preference; just chop them to a similar size for even distribution.

Adjusting the sweetness is crucial to cater to your taste. If the fruits alone aren’t sweet enough for you, consider incorporating a splash of maple syrup or a drizzle of honey. Alternatively, if you're looking for a lower-calorie option, stevia or monk fruit can safely replace sugar without losing flavor. Adjust gradually, tasting after each addition to avoid overwhelming sweetness.

Ingredients

For the Oats

1 cup rolled oats
2 cups almond milk (or any milk of choice)
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 ripe banana, sliced
1 cup strawberries, hulled and chopped
2 scoops protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
Sweetener to taste (honey, maple syrup, or stevia)

Instructions

Steps

Combine Ingredients

In a saucepan, combine the rolled oats, almond milk, chia seeds, and protein powder over medium heat. Stir well to combine.

Cook the Oats

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the oats are cooked and the mixture is creamy.

Add Fruits

Once cooked, remove the saucepan from heat and fold in the sliced banana and chopped strawberries. Adjust sweetness to your preference.

Serve

Spoon the oats into bowls and top with additional fresh fruit, a dollop of yogurt, and extra sweetener if desired.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding nuts or different fruits based on your preferences. It also works well as an overnight oats recipe if you want to prepare it the night before!

Storage and Meal Prep

These Strawberry Banana Protein Oats are an excellent option for meal prepping. After cooking, let the oats cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of almond milk as needed to achieve your preferred consistency.

If you prefer a grab-and-go breakfast, consider portioning the oats into jars and layering them with fruits and yogurt. This not only saves time but allows for a beautifully presented meal that you can enjoy cold. Just keep the fruits separate until you're ready to eat to prevent sogginess.

Creative Variations

Feeling adventurous? Try adding a spoonful of nut butter, like almond or peanut, to your oats before cooking. This adds a rich flavor and increases the healthy fat content, making your breakfast even more satisfying. For a chocolatey twist, consider incorporating cocoa powder or a scoop of chocolate protein powder for a decadent yet healthy treat.

For those who are dairy-free, using coconut yogurt or a sprinkle of dairy-free cheese can create interesting flavor profiles. And if you're looking to make these oats extra filling, top them with a handful of nuts or seeds after serving, giving you that additional crunch while enhancing the nutrient density of your meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, you can use instant oats, but the cooking time will be shorter, so watch them closely.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

Simply use plant-based milk and ensure the protein powder is vegan-friendly.

→ Can I prepare these oats in advance?

Absolutely! You can make a big batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What other fruits can I add?

You can add any fruit you like such as blueberries, raspberries, or even apples for variety.