Apricots are one of the most underrated fruits to be enjoyed during the final days of summer so we took the liberty of creating a recipe for you to do just that! Enhanced with probiotics and protein from Lifeway Whole Milk Vanilla Kefir, which is rich in protein and contains 12 probiotics for optimal gut health and a healthy immune system. Creamy, cool, and filling, this overnight oats recipe is easy to make and great for meal prep too. Give this recipe a shot and reap the nutritional benefits of fiber from chia seeds and oats, plus vitamin C from the fruit along with additional fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Cultured Dairy: The Nutrition Benefits You Actually Need to Know
With increasing research linking the correlation between probiotics, gut health, and immunity, it’s no secret that the integrity of our gut is vital to our health. Although additional factors such as stress, antibiotic usage, and individual health conditions can contribute to the condition of our gut, a focus on healthy food choices is one of the easiest ways to support the microbiome. Several studies have shown a strong association between the gut-brain-microbiota. Probiotics introduced to the gut have been found to support immunity, improve allergies, and improve digestion.
Studies have also shown that reduced diversity of healthy gut bacteria during early years is associated with an increase in food allergies during school-age years. In addition, kefir made from whole fat milk helps absorb key nutrients such as Vitamins A, D, E, and K. Vitamin K is important because it helps your bones absorb calcium. It’s important to know that kefir contains a special trio: vitamin D, K, and calcium – all three crucial elements to support bone health.
Prebiotics + Probiotics = A Healthier You
Prebiotics are non-living, non-digestible carbohydrates naturally found in a variety of fiber-rich plant foods. Your body actually can’t digest prebiotics, so they’re what probiotics feed off of to remain actively working in your digestive system. They help the digestive system by promoting the growth of good bacteria. Prebiotics and probiotics work together in balance to make sure our digestive system stays on track and regular. Research has found that consuming a variety of prebiotic and probiotic food sources may improve your body’s natural functions, including both your immune and digestive systems.
Prep Time: 10 mins Servings: 4-6Ingredients
- Apricot Compote:
- 12 ripe apricots
- 1/2 orange, peel reserved
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1 tsp. brown sugar or coconut sugar
- Poppyseed Oats:
- 1 cup of Vanilla Whole Milk Kefir
- 3 cups quick or rolled oats
- 2 tbsp. poppy seeds
- 2 tbsp. chia seeds
- 1 tsp. lemon juice
Directions
- To make the Poppyseed Oats: In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the Lifeway Vanilla Whole Milk Kefir if using instead), the oats, poppy seeds, chia seeds, and lemon juice. Stir to combine, then refrigerate overnight or 4-5 hours to set up and thicken. Note: It will get thicker overnight, so resist the urge to use less LifewayOat if it looks too thin.
- To make the Apricot Compote: Slice and core the apricots, then cut the halves apart again in the middle. Cut up the orange into slices and put the apricots, orange juice, reserved orange peel, and the sugar in a pot and bring to a boil once. Turn down to medium heat once boiling, then simmer for 5 minutes. Turn off the heat and remove the pan from the burner, then stir in the vanilla.
- Allow for it to cool for 5-10 minutes, pour into a jar and refrigerate until serving.
- When ready to eat your oats, remove the oats from the fridge, divide evenly among 4-6 glasses, and layer the overnight oats and apricot compote in each jar. Top with any fresh fruit you wish for serving. You can also keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
