These Healthy Oatmeal Pancakes with Spinach are a nutritious and delicious way to start your day. Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, these pancakes are perfect for a balanced breakfast. The addition of spinach not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a beautiful green hue to your pancakes.
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup baby spinach (2 ounces)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup egg whites (2 egg whites or 1 whole egg)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup oat flour
- 2 tablespoons monk fruit or preferred granulated sweetener
- 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 3/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/3 cup walnuts, chopped
Directions
- Blend Wet Ingredients:
- Combine baby spinach, almond milk, yogurt, egg whites, and vanilla in a blender.
- Blend until liquified and well combined.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- Add oat flour, sweetener, cinnamon, salt, and baking powder to the blender.
- Blend again until everything is combined. The batter may look thin but will thicken as it sits.
- Add Stir-Ins:
- Stir in rolled oats and chopped walnuts.
- Let the batter rest for 10 minutes to allow the rolled oats to soften and the batter to thicken.
- Cook Pancakes:
- Heat a large non-stick sauté pan over medium-low heat and coat it with a thin layer of non-aerosol cooking spray, butter, or coconut oil.
- Once the skillet is hot, drop a scant 1/4 cupful of batter into the pan.
- Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on the first side, until the pancakes look dry around the edges and small bubbles form over the top.
- Flip and cook on the other side for another 1 to 2 minutes until golden on both sides and set through the center.
- Repeat with the remaining batter.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these pancakes with fresh fruit, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for an extra protein boost.
- They pair well with a cup of green tea or freshly squeezed orange juice.
Cooking Tips
- For an extra crunch, add a handful of chia seeds or flaxseeds to the batter.
- If you prefer your pancakes a bit sweeter, add an extra tablespoon of your favorite granulated sweetener.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in Protein: The combination of Greek yogurt, egg whites, and walnuts ensures a high protein content, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Rich in Fiber: Oat flour and rolled oats provide a good amount of fiber, promoting digestive health and keeping you full longer.
- Low in Sugar: Using monk fruit as a sweetener keeps these pancakes low in sugar, making them suitable for a healthy diet.
Dietary Information
- Calories: 256 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0.003g
- Cholesterol: 1mg
- Sodium: 523mg
- Potassium: 296mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
- Vitamin A: 707 IU
- Vitamin C: 2mg
- Calcium: 109mg
- Iron: 2mg
Storage Tips
- Store any leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These pancakes are not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients that will keep you energized throughout the day. The hidden spinach adds a nutritional punch without compromising the taste, making it a great way to sneak in some greens.
Conclusion
Healthy Oatmeal Pancakes with Spinach are a delicious and nutritious breakfast option that will make your mornings brighter and healthier. Enjoy them fresh off the pan, or prepare them in advance for a quick and easy breakfast during busy weekdays.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use a different type of milk? A: Yes, you can substitute almond milk with any other plant-based milk like soy, oat, or coconut milk, or even regular cow’s milk if you prefer.
Q: Can I make these pancakes gluten-free? A: These pancakes are naturally gluten-free as long as you use certified gluten-free oat flour and rolled oats.
Q: What can I use instead of Greek yogurt? A: You can use any plain yogurt, including dairy-free options like coconut or almond yogurt.
Q: How can I make the pancakes sweeter? A: Add an extra tablespoon of your preferred granulated sweetener or a bit of honey or maple syrup to the batter.
Q: Can I freeze these pancakes? A: Yes, you can freeze them. Let the pancakes cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat in the microwave or on a skillet before serving.
Q: What other stir-ins can I add? A: Feel free to add your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits for additional texture and flavor. Chocolate chips can also be a tasty addition.
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Q: Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites? A: Yes, you can use whole eggs. Two egg whites can be replaced with one whole egg.
Q: Are these pancakes suitable for meal prep? A: Absolutely! Make a batch on the weekend and store them in the fridge or freezer for quick breakfasts during the week.