I was reading about the healthiest foods in the world, and came to the part about oats. It reminded me about a recipe I used to love, that fell by the wayside for some reason. I don't remember where I got the idea. It was back in the 70s when whole foods and health were popular. Back then, hippies and tree-huggers were into this kind of thing. Well, health and nutrition are main-stream now, so I decided to send this recipe - and to start making it again.
Amounts are so variable, I'll just give general guidelines. You have to start several hours ahead, or preferably the day before, to allow the ingredients to meld and chill. You do NOT cook the oatmeal first. Old-fashioned and quick oats are entirely edible and safe raw, and are in many granolas and mueslis. Do not use instant oatmeal.
Mix your oats and juice. You can use other juices, but grape juice will give you a kind of nasty gray color. Set aside for a couple of hours until all the juice has been absorbed. They will be nice and creamy when served.
Prepare the fruit in bite size pieces. I like a mixture of berries with some apple for crunch. If it is likely to discolor, splash a little orange or lemon juice on, then drain. Add some seeds, like pumpkin seeds, if you like. Chop nuts in small pieces, walnuts, almonds, and pecans are especially nice. They add flavor, nutrition, and another kind of crunch.
Sweeten with a little honey, if you like. Your yogurt should be the healthiest kind. You can use any flavor you like. I prefer vanilla for this.
To assemble: Use a parfait glass, or anything suitable for a parfait. Highball glasses are great. Make 2 layers each of oats , your fruit/nut mixture, and the yogurt. Cover with a lid, or plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. Serve with a drizzle of honey, chopped banana, or as is.
This is very tasty. I used to eat it for dessert. In the right container, it is easy to take with you or pack for lunches. It is also very nutritious, making a guilt-free treat. Best of all, kids tend to love it.
By Free2B from North Royalton, OH
The is a page about healthy Greek yogurt parfait. Combine Greek style yogurt with your favorite fruit or grains for a yummy, good for you parfait.
