Grain-free, refined sugar-free, and made with healthy fats, this Noatmeal Recipe can be made 3 ways to satisfy all your tastebuds with an anti-inflammatory breakfast recipe that can be made in 20 minutes or less! We’ve even given you an overnight option for easy meal prep that will leave you feeling great. Choose your favorite flavor, or try them all! Gluten and Dairy Free.
Welcome to the 2nd installment of our nourishing breakfast week! This recipe is part of our Restorative Health Series, meaning it’s made with good-for-you ingredients that are refined sugar-free, and perfect for meal prep so you can feel your best without sacrificing flavor!
Noatmeal Like Never Before!
Are you a breakfast person? It’s not called the most important meal of the day for nothing! Consuming a well-balanced breakfast that is made with whole food ingredients, high in protein, and healthy fats is the best way to set yourself up for a successful day. However, if I’m being honest, unlike my Kiwi husband who needs to stay fueled for runs and endurance training, I don’t eat breakfast as soon as I wake up. Instead, I prefer to wait a few hours before I prepare a meal.
As with other aspects of health, we do what works for our bodies, but that doesn’t mean that we don’t both need nourishment! Therefore, in order to meet both of our needs, I like to rely on quick breakfasts and make-ahead recipes such as Instant Pot Oatmeal in a Jar, Healing AIP Breakfast Porridge, and Flourless Peanut Butter Waffles.
However, with the end of the holiday season, I’ve found myself in need of a sort of reset. I don’t mean one where you drink nothing but green juice or sip on some kind of “magical” tea, though. Instead, I’m implementing more nutrient-dense foods to help reduce any symptoms of inflammation and well… just feeling blah. That being said, I know we don’t all have hours to spend in the kitchen. So, in combination with wholesome, healing ingredients, I’m creating simple and approachable recipes the whole family will love, starting with this Noatmeal!
No matter what time you eat breakfast, this grain-free oatmeal is made with healthy fats and natural ingredients for a comforting meal that will leave you feeling great!
What is Noatmeal?
Before we get started, let’s clear up some confusion by defining what Noatmeal actually is! Simply put, noatmeal means NO OATMEAL. Basically, it’s a low-carb, grain-free oatmeal alternative that is made with various nuts and seeds instead of oats. Similar in consistency to oatmeal, it can be made with a wide variety of toppings and add-ins from fruit, to protein powder, and more. Furthermore, due to its ingredient profile, noatmeal is often referred to as paleo or keto oatmeal
and is often used as an oatmeal or porridge replacement for those following these specific diet types.
Health Benefits of Grain Free Oatmeal
I know what you’re thinking. Wait, isn’t oatmeal healthy? The answer is, yes! However, as with everything else, it is extremely case-dependent. You see, as with any other food, oatmeal can be extremely beneficial for many people. Yet, for those who are following a gluten free or anti-inflammatory diet protocol, consuming oats may not be the best option. While oats are technically considered gluten free, research has shown that the protein molecules in oats may cause inflammation in those who have Celiac disease (Source).
Of course, consult your doctor with any specific concerns, but for those who feel they do not tolerate oats well, noatmeal might be a good option! Plus, it’s made with nourishing ingredients that are beneficial for everyone!
Basic Ingredients Needed & Easy Alternatives
As with oatmeal, noatmeal can be made in many different ways. However, the base of the recipe remains the same and utilizes the following ingredients.
- Nut /Seed Butter or Coconut Oil – Any nut or seed butter such as cashew butter or sunflower seed butter can be used for this noatmeal recipe as long as it is smooth. Or, for a nut-free option, use coconut oil instead.
- Chia Seeds or Flax Meal – Both chia seeds and flax meal are full of omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids, vitamins, nutrients, and fiber! Flax meal creates a slightly grittier consistency and contains more of a nutty flavor whereas chia seeds are smaller and bland in taste.
Pro-Tip: To get the most nutrients, use a combination of chia seeds and flax seeds for your noatmeal by combining 2 tablespoons of each!
- Almond Flour – Almond flour is mild in flavor and adds healthy fats, vitamin E, magnesium, fiber, and other nutrients to this Noatmeal recipe.
Foodie Swap: For a nut-free noatmeal, swap out the almond flour for unsweetened shredded coconut.
- Hulled Hemp Seeds – Technically a nut, hemp seeds (also referred to as hemp hearts) have a slightly nutty flavor and are rich in omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids, high in protein, and contain many vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, phosphorous, potassium, calcium, iron, and zinc.
- Spices – Either cinnamon or ginger are added to noatmeal to enhance the flavor while also boosting the antioxidant and anti-inflammation properties of this recipe!
- Non-Dairy Milk – Almond or coconut milk work best for this noatmeal.
- Optional Sweetener – If you want to add a hint of sweetness, try using honey, maple syrup, cocoa, or monk fruit!
How to Make Noatmeal (3 Ways!)
Now that you’ve got the basic ingredients to make plain noatmeal, let’s get creative with 3 flavor options (including a nut-free version) to satisfy your tastebuds. Then, we’ll put it all together!
Flavor Variations
Now that you’ve got the basic ingredients to make plain noatmeal, let’s get creative with 3 flavor options (including a nut-free version) to satisfy your tastebuds. Then, we’ll put it all together!
Raspberry Mint
Sweet, light, and refreshing, this raspberry mint noatmeal recipe is made with warm spices and fresh fruit and herbs for a slightly sweet breakfast.
You’ll Need:
- Basic Noatmeal Ingredients
- Honey
- Cinnamon
- Fresh Raspberries
- Mint Leaves
Nutrition Notes for Anti-Inflammation:
Raspberries are loaded with polyphenols and antioxidants known as anthocyanins that have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce the risk of disease and effects of arthritis (Source).
Mint is a great source of vitamin A and antioxidants that help improve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and relieve indigestion.
Blueberries Coconut Lemon (Nut Free Version)
Slightly tropical in flavor, this blueberry coconut lemon noatmeal recipe is a great nut-free option that still provides great vitamins and nutrients thanks to the use of shredded coconut and fresh fruit!
You’ll Need:
- Basic Noatmeal Ingredients
- Lemon Zest
- Maple Syrup
- Fresh Blueberries
- Shredded Coconut
Nutrition Notes:
The large amount of calcium and vitamin C found in lemons can help improve your bone health and reduce the risk or symptoms of diseases such as osteoporosis and arthritis.
Blueberries are rich in antioxidants known as flavonoids that help reduce inflammation in the body while also improving the immune system.
Midnight Mocha
For the chocolate fans, this Midnight Mocha Noatmeal is rich in antioxidants thanks to the addition of cocoa powder and dark chocolate chips and packs an added punch with a touch of caffeine… coffee!
You’ll Need:
- Basic Noatmeal Ingredients
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
- Organic Instant Coffee
- Dark Chocolate Chips
Nutrition Notes:
Cocoa is rich in polyphenols and can help reduce cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation.
Although the research is unclear, some evidence has suggested that caffeine consumption can have significant anti-inflammatory properties in individuals.
Instructions
- Whisk. In a small saucepan, whisk together the milk, hemp hearts, almond flour (or shredded coconut), flax meal, chia seeds, spices, and salt. Then, turn the heat to medium, and whisk in the nut butter or oil until it is well-combined.
- Boil. Bring the ingredients to a boil, stirring constantly. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, and let the noatmeal simmer for 3-5 minutes before removing it from the heat and adding your sweetener of choice.
- Cover. Cover the noatmeal, and let it sit on the stove to thicken for 8-10 minutes.
- Add Toppings. Once thick, divide the noatmeal between two bowls, add your flavor options of choice, and enjoy!
Make-Ahead Option: To make overnight noatmeal, add the basic ingredients to a large bowl, mix to combine, and add your sweetener of choice. Then, place the mixture in the refrigerator for 3 hours or overnight, making sure to stir the ingredients at least once. To serve, mx in more milk or cream if your noatmeal is too thick for your liking, and add your favorite toppings options!
Storage and Preparation
This Noatmeal recipe is best served right away, but if you want to prepare it ahead of time, it can be stored in the fridge for up to 1-2 days when cooked on the stovetop. However, the overnight noatmeal recipe can be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days.
To Reheat: Place your noatmeal in a saucepan, and heat it on the stovetop on medium heat until the desired temperature is reached. Or, just pop it in the microwave in intervals of 15 seconds!
Common Questions
Yes! The basic formula for plain noatmeal is keto-friendly. However, once you start adding sweeteners, fruit, and additional toppings, it contains too many carbs to be considered keto.
If you are not looking to replace oats or following a low-carb diet, you can absolutely use gluten free rolled oats as a base, but add 5-10 minutes more cooking time. Rolled oats take longer to cook on stovetop.
While no single food is good or bad, this noatmeal recipe is full of healthy fats, vitamins, nutrients, and fiber that will leave you feeling full, satisfied, and energized. As a result, this recipe may be beneficial to add to your diet if you are trying to improve your overall health.
Noatmeal (3 Ways!)
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 2 bowls 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Made with 3 different flavor options, this Noatmeal is ready in 20 minutes for an easy grain-free breakfast you’ll love. Pick your favorite, or make them all!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ Tablespoons smooth nut butter (or coconut oil for a nut-free option)
- 4 Tablespoons chia seeds or flax meal (or a combination of 2 Tablespoons each)
- ⅓ cup almond flour (or ground almonds) or unsweetened shredded coconut for a nut-free option.
- ½ cup hulled hemp seeds
- Pinch of cinnamon and/or ginger
- Pinch of sea salt
- 1 cup almond or coconut milk
- Optional sweetener – depending on flavors (honey, maple syrup, cocoa, monk fruit, etc.)
- Optional toppings of choice (See notes for flavor options)
Flavor Options – Mix into basic n’oatmeal (above) before dividing into 2 bowls.
1. Raspberry Mint
- 2 teaspoons of honey
- ⅛ teaspoon of cinnamon
- TOPPINGS – Fresh raspberries and mint leaves
2. Blueberries Coconut Lemon (nut-free version)
- 1 Tablespoon of lemon zest
- 1 Tablespoon of maple syrup
- TOPPINGS – Fresh blueberries and 1 Tablespoon of unsweetened shredded coconut
3. Midnight Mocha
- 2 to 3 teaspoons of unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon instant coffee (added to milk before mixing into a pot and boiling)
- TOPPINGS – dark chocolate chips
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, whisk together the milk, hemp hearts, almond flour (or shredded coconut), flax meal, chia seeds, spices, and salt. Turn the heat to medium, add the nut butter or oil, and mix until the ingredients are well combined.
- Bring the ingredients to a low boil, stirring constantly. Then, reduce the heat to low, and let the ingredients simmer for 3-5 minutes. Remove the saucepan from the heat, and stir in the optional sweetener, if using.
- Cover the noatmeal, and let it sit for about 8-10 minutes to thicken.
- Divide the noatmeal between two bowls, and add the toppings of choice, if desired.
Notes
Overnight Noatmeal Option: Combine the basic noatmeal ingredients together in a large bowl. Mix in the sweetener of choice. Refrigerate the mixture for 3 hours or overnight, stirring at least once. To serve, add more almond milk or cream to thin out if desired, and add toppings of choice (3 ways above).
Nutrition information is for basic noatmeal only and doesn’t include flavor options.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stove top
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 1.9 g
- Sodium: 197.8 mg
- Fat: 41.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 8.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 14.8 g
- Fiber: 9.2 g
- Protein: 20.2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: noatmeal, grain-free, gluten-free, low-carb, breakfast
No matter which version you choose, this n’oatmeal recipe is guaranteed to help you start your day on the right foot! If you make one (or all) of the recipes, I’d love it if you let me know in the comments below!
Cheers,
LC
I added a quarter scoop of my vanilla flavoured, Slim-Fast, low carb, protein shake powder into this. It sweetened it perfectly and gave it a slightly more creamy texture
★★★★
I love the creamy addition! thanks for feedback robin!
can I leave out the hemp seeds without having to replace with something else
Hi Elaine! Worth a shot! If it’s too runny, add a protein powder perhaps
This is a great base recipe that is so easy to customize. I really love the raspberry mint version!
★★★★★
so glad. Raspberry was my fav too!
One of my favorite breakfast recipes! I make it all the time!
★★★★★
So glad! Thanks for feedback Wanda!
Mine thickened up very quickly! It had that comfort food feel but made me feel nourished eating it! Love this recipe! I refrigerated the leftovers, hoping they reheat okay tomorrow!
★★★★★
Ahh that’s the best texture!