Blackberry Banana Overnight Oats

I know is seems like ages since I've written a post and I apologize.  Spring time is what my sister calls my "busy season."  As a dance teacher I am prepping and rehearsing for our end of the year recital which is exciting and time consuming.  This all results in spending less time in the kitchen and at my computer sharing my recipes with you.  

Just like everyone else who is busy with life, I tend to find something simple and quick to make as I rush out the door or too tired to cook at the end of the day.  So I thought what would be better than a few posts containing some simple, quick and of course fresh and tasty recipes to accommodate every one's "busy season."

Let's start with breakfast!

Blackberry Banana Overnight Oats

While I tend to be a savory breakfast eater (watch for that post next week) these overnight oats are perfect for anyone on the go! 

Ingredients

3/4 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup non-fat plain or honey Greek yogurt (I use Trader Joe's Non-Fat Honey Greek Yogurt)
2/3 cup low-fat or skim milk
1 large or 2 small bananas
4-6 ounces fresh blackberries
honey (optional for drizzle)

In a medium bowl combine the rolled oats, Greek yogurt, and milk.  Next either divide mixture evenly into three 6-ounce jars with lids or simply cover the bowl and refrigerate overnight.

In the morning, carefully mash the bananas and blackberries in a medium bowl until combined.  Add the mashed mixture to the overnight oats and enjoy.

Optional: If using the plain Greek yogurt you may want to drizzle a bit of honey on top to add some sweetness.

Notes: Any preferred fruit can be substituted.  Also, adding nuts and/or granola would be yummy.

Makes 2 large servings or 3 small.

Smashed Blackberry-Basil Toast with Ricotta

If you remember a couple of weeks ago I featured spring time cocktails that I had made for my cousin Challise and her fiancee Zach.  The Blackberry-basil bourbon was so wonderful I could have drank at least 3 (or more), but contrary to popular belief I do use fruit and herbs for other things.  

I have to say I am usually a pretty big breakfast eater.  I love having dippy eggs (eggs over easy) with buttered toast along with my hot cup of coffee in the morning.  Something about the smell of eggs cooking in the pan while my bread toasts in the toaster always puts me in a good mood.  However, there are a few mornings where I do want something a little lighter, especially in the spring and summer months.  So as I  perused my refrigerator a few mornings after making those spring time cocktails I decided why not put those beautiful berries on my toast.  The freshness of the berries and basil on top of the creamy ricotta made for a deliciously perfect breakfast, which I enjoyed in the sunshine on my patio.  With coffee of course.

Smashed Blackberry-Basil Toast with Ricotta

Ingredients

1 piece of bread, toasted

7-9 blackberries, washed

3-4 large basil leaves, washed and chopped

1-2 tablespoons ricotta

Salt and pepper to taste

Place the berries in a small bowl.  Carefully smash them (blackberry will stain) with either a fork or potato smasher.  Add the chopped basil and stir to combine.  Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Generously spread the ricotta on the toast.  Top with the blackberry mixture and enjoy!

Notes:  All of the ingredients can be adjusted to your taste.  Also a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic would be a great addition.  This recipe can also be made in a larger batch and spread on sliced french bread for a party appetizer.