These Protein Zucchini Overnight Oats are a creative, easy way to sneak extra veggies into your morning routine while boosting your protein intake. This healthy, make-ahead breakfast is packed with nutrients to keep you full all morning long!
If you’re looking for a high-protein, nutritious breakfast that’s both easy to make and delicious, these overnight oats are for you! Packed with shredded zucchini and Greek yogurt, this recipe is a great way to sneak in vegetables and get a protein boost.
Plus, it’s naturally sweetened with applesauce, making it a healthier alternative to sugary breakfast options.
Perfect for meal prep, these oats are customizable, so you can add your favorite mix-ins like nuts, seeds, or dried fruit.
Whether you’re looking for a filling breakfast or an afternoon snack, this recipe delivers fiber, protein, and tons of flavor with minimal effort!
What’s in Protein Zucchini Overnight Oats?
This recipe is a blend of nutrient-dense ingredients that offer great flavor and texture:
- Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: The base of any good overnight oats recipe. Do not use quick oats or steel-cut oats as they won’t yield the right texture.
- Shredded Zucchini: A fantastic way to incorporate vegetables into your breakfast without overwhelming the flavor.
- Almond Milk: Adds creaminess to the oats. Feel free to substitute with any milk you prefer.
- Greek Yogurt: Adds protein and creaminess. Use non-dairy yogurt for a vegan option.
- Unsweetened Applesauce: Naturally sweetens the oats, reducing the need for added sugar.
- Vanilla Protein Powder: A protein-packed addition that helps keep you full and satisfied throughout the morning.
- Spices: A warming combination of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg to give your oats extra flavor.
- Lemon Zest: Adds a fresh zing that balances out the sweetness.
- Optional Add-ins: Toasted walnuts, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, shredded coconut, or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.
How to Make Protein Zucchini Overnight Oats
- Shred the Zucchini: Use a box grater for the best texture. Avoid using a food processor or blender as it might turn the zucchini too mushy.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine all of the ingredients, making sure everything is well blended.
- Portion & Refrigerate: Divide the mixture into 2-3 airtight containers or jars. Place them in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight.
- Serve: When ready to eat, give your oats a quick stir and add toppings like chopped banana, granola, or extra maple syrup. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use frozen zucchini?
It’s best to use fresh zucchini for texture. Frozen zucchini may release excess moisture and affect the consistency of the oats. -
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute non-dairy yogurt for Greek yogurt, and use any plant-based milk of your choice. -
How long do these oats last in the fridge?
They will stay good for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. Make a batch at the beginning of the week for easy, nutritious breakfasts all week long! Can I freeze it? Unfortunately… while I love freezing anything I can, this isn’t one you want to freeze.
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Healthy Protein Zucchini Overnight Oats
Equipment
- Shredder/grater for the zucchini
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup old fashioned rolled oats, not steal cut oats or quick cook
- 1/4 cup vanilla protein powder
- 1/2 cup shredded zucchini - not packed, approximately 1/2 of a medium zucchini
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2/3 cup plain greek yogurt, substitute non-dairy yogurt
- 1/3 cup almond milk, substitute oat milk or similar (adjust amount to desired consistency)
- 1 ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground/powder ginger
- pinch ground nutmeg, optional
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest, more to taste
- 2 tablespoon finely chopped walnuts or pecans, lightly toasted (optional)
- 2 tablespoon finely chopped dried fruit, dates, figs, or raisins (optional)
- 2 tablespoon maple syrup or other sweetener, optional and more as needed
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the oats, protein powder, shredded zucchini, applesauce, Greek yogurt, almond milk, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Stir until well combined.
- Refrigerate: Divide the mixture into 2 to 3 airtight containers or jars. Store in the fridge for at least 3 hours, or overnight, to allow the oats to soak and flavors to develop.
- Serve: Stir the oats before serving. Top with chopped banana, maple syrup, granola, or additional nuts. Enjoy!
Notes
- For a thinner consistency - Add 1/2 cup of milk instead of 1/3.
- For a thicker consistency - Reduce the milk to 1/4 cup, or leave out entirely.
- Shredded coconut
- Flaxseed
- Finely chopped apple
- Chia seeds
- Non-dairy - Substitute your favorite non-dairy yogurt for the greek yogurt.
- Like it sweeter? Add more maple syrup or your sweetener.
