Zoats {Zucchini Oats} by Victoria McSwain

This is hands down my favorite everyday breakfast! I love how filling it is, how tasty it is, and how simple it is! Adding zucchini to your oats may seem a little odd-- but, it kind of isn't all that strange (think zucchini bread, but oat form!).

It's also perfect to add veggies in your kiddos diet! You can call them "HULK OATS", "MERMAID OATS", or "TROLL OATS". To make it even more fun you can let them personalize their bowl with their favorite toppings!! I'd recommend berries, coconut flakes, cocoa nibs or chocolate chips, bananas, apples, kale (YES, kale! Just finely chop and add to the top along with other toppings.), or your favorite granola.

Ingredients-

1. 1 cup of Oats

2. 1 cup of Zucchini

3. 2 tbs of nut butter or PB2

4. 2 tsp of Vanilla

5. 1 cup of water

6. 1/4 cup of almond milk

7. 1 cup of fruit of choice

8. Add desired sweetener (stevia, maple syrup, or agave)

Instructions-

Shred 1 cup of zucchini. Bring water to a boil. Add oats, and shredded zucchini. Reduce heat to medium, and mix in vanilla, sweetener, and PB2. Let simmer for about 15 minutes. Top with toppings of choice (I typically add frozen berries, and a banana).

I suggest using a 1:1 ration of oats and zucchini. If you are just starting you can try adding 1/2 the amount of zucchini, and see if you want to add more! The beauty of using zucchini is how well if absorbs the flavor, and sweetness of of the oats!

Benefits of Zucchini:

1. Full of vitamin C

2. Low calorie

3. Good for your eyes and nervous system

4. Hydrating

5. High in fiber, anti-oxidants, and protein (one cup of Zucchini has about 1.5g of protein, and roughly 20 calories!)

Benefits of Oats:

1. Reduces heart issues and lowers cholesterol

2. Stabilizes blood sugar

3. Incredibly nutritious in vitamins and minerals

4.Very filling food

5. Helps bowel movements