Toppings for protein: oats
It’s a well known fact that oats are a bit of a superfood, packed full of all of the goodness that comes with being wholegrain and high in fibre. The lovely thing about oats, and especially our delicious oatcakes, is that they’re so versatile, making it easy to pair them with a whole host of protein-rich foods and toppings to give you a protein boost.
Why is protein important?
Before we tell you about our favourite high protein toppings for delicious oatcakes, it’s important to think about why protein is important for a healthy diet. Protein is broken down in the stomach to create amino acids, which are important for healthy skin, organs, blood cells, and for shiny hair and nails. According to the Food Standards Agency, foods containing protein should make up a whopping 15% of our daily diet and complete proteins are far better for us than more processed, incomplete proteins. Red meat, poultry, eggs and dairy are some examples of complete protein foods.
What oaty foods are the highest in protein?
The great thing about oats is how adaptable they are, making them a perfect base to add delicious, protein-rich toppings. It’s easy to take porridge to the next level with a dollop of nut butter and a sprinkling of almonds, which both contain large amounts of protein. Our delicious Nairn’s Oatcakes are also a great snack and go perfectly with a slathering of your favourite nut butter and sliced banana. Why not try our Super Seeded Organic Oatcakes packed with flaxseed, chia and sunflower seeds as a snack for a little protein boost? Or, you can try these delicious oaty ideas which are bursting with protein and chock-full of flavour:
Peanut and vanilla overnight oats
A delicious way to start the day, overnight oats are a quick and simple way to enjoy a great-tasting breakfast that’s rich in protein. A moreish combination of layers of milky vanilla oats and peanut butter that’s ready to grab out of the fridge in the morning and eat on the go, overnight oats are perfect for people who love those five extra minutes in bed. Plus, why not add a scoop of vanilla protein powder or a sprinkle of chia seeds for an extra boost before the gym?
Greek yoghurt with oaty granola and pistachios
Thick, creamy greek yoghurt can seem like an indulgent treat but is actually quite virtuous when you consider its protein content and pair it with delicious granola and chopped nuts. Try combining greek yoghurt drizzled with honey with a large handful of our Gluten Free Oat Muesli or homemade oat granola, chock-full of crunchy seeds and sweet dried fruit, and a sprinkling of chopped pistachios. Not only does this look great, it also tastes incredible and will give you a protein boost either as a weekday breakfast or as a snack.
Oat and banana protein pancakes
A great option for lazy weekend breakfasts when you fancy something comforting, but also want it to be good for you, oat and banana protein pancakes are quick to make and incredibly tasty. A scoop of protein powder, such as peanut butter or chocolate flavoured, takes this breakfast to the next level and adds another level of flavour. So you can enjoy a plate of protein pancakes and be bursting with energy for a long weekend bike ride or swim with your family or friends.
Delicious oat bars and flapjacks
The ideal snack to tuck into your work bag, school lunchbox or gym bag, oat bars and flapjacks are a tasty way of getting protein into your diet when they’re made with a range of wholegrains, seeds, nuts and deliciously sweet dried fruit. The possibilities are endless when it comes to creating tasty combinations – from walnut, cranberry and apricot to hazelnut, peanut butter and date – there’s something to suit all tastes. You can add banana for a softer oat bar, perfect for little ones, or add a drizzle of chocolate to flapjacks for ideal protein packed revision fuel.
Almond butter and egg white porridge
Adding egg whites to porridge or oatmeal creates a fluffy texture and a delicious French toast flavour – as well as a great protein hit – that’s perfect for when you want a lighter, but still substantial, breakfast. Almond butter adds to the creaminess of the porridge but also cuts through with a touch of saltiness, making this an excellent high-protein breakfast option. Why not add sliced banana and cinnamon for extra sweetness or a handful of blueberries for a little touch of freshness? The choices are endless.
So, now you know the reasons why pairing our delicious oaty products with a selection of protein-rich toppings is a great, easy way of getting protein into your diet. Packed full of goodness, oats go well with a huge variety of different high-protein foods like yoghurt, nut butters and many more. Find out more about the benefits of oats online at Nairn’s and let us know what tasty, protein-filled oaty combinations you come up with.
