Last updated on February 23, 2019 by Liza Hawkins
Disclosure: Driscoll’s asked me to celebrate National Oatmeal Day with them by creating a recipe using their berries that takes oatmeal beyond just a boring bowl. I received coupons and a gift card for participating, but (as always) all thoughts are my own.
During the summer months I’m lucky. Here on the homestead, we have raspberry, blackberry and gooseberry bushes just a couple hundred feet from our house, which means I can get my berry fill and I know they’re grown organically. And talk about local…that’s about as local as you get. HA!
But other times of the year I like to use berries too, and Maryland is definitely not a year-round berry producer – not in our yard, anyway. Driscoll’s has a line of organic berries at my grocery store, which makes it easy to enjoy them anytime of year.
Like in mid-October. For National Oatmeal Day!
Obviously they’re not local – these raspberries are from Mexico – but I like that I can still support organic farmers, and my kids still get organic berries.
And these particular raspberries were DEE-licious.
So, back to the point of this all….
October 29 is National Oatmeal Day
Driscoll’s is really excited because nothing dresses up oatmeal like berries! They think of the two as the perfect combination – like a little black dress and pearls! On its own, oatmeal is a delicious, simple and nutritious meal that everyone can enjoy. Berries are terrific as a topping or as an ingredient for any of your oatmeal recipes. They deliver that punch of fresh flavor that adds some dimension to any oatmeal treat. Let’s talk benefits, shall we?
Oatmeal Health
- Oatmeal is high in fiber, offering many cardiovascular benefits such as, reduced risk of developing high blood pressure.
- Oatmeal induces the brain to increase production of serotonin, keeping anxiety and stress away.
- Oatmeal is rich in protein and fiber, allowing you to feel fuller.
Berry Health
- Blueberries are considered one of the best stress-busting foods due to the high amount of antioxidant and vitamin C content.
- Having just one serving of strawberries may help improve heart health, lower the risk of developing some cancers and lower blood pressure.
- Berries are low in calories, high in fiber and contain vitamins and minerals your body needs to function normally.
I decided to take those beautiful raspberries and make them into Raspberry Oatmeal Banana Bread. Something easy for breakfast, or that I can slather with cream cheese and use for my kids’ school lunches. Oatmeal is a perfect add-in, as are bananas and the zing of a little fresh lime juice and zest!
Mmmm….
I mean, does it get any better than this?
We certainly don’t think so. Rasberries and oatmeal for the win!
Raspberry Oatmeal Banana Bread
Ingredients
- 3 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup canola oil
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 lime, juiced and zested
- 2 bananas (preferably over-ripe)
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 1 cup quick cook oats
Instructions
Notes
You might find that the batter doesn't quite fill two large loaf pans. If this is the case, use one small and one large, or make muffins! If you plan on freezing these, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap once they've cooled, and then put them in zip top freezer bags.
Disclosure: Driscoll’s asked me to celebrate National Oatmeal Day with them by creating a recipe using their berries that takes oatmeal beyond just a boring bowl. I received coupons and a gift card for participating, but (as always) all thoughts are my own.
This looks delicious- it is pretty great being able to get raspberries year round. Costco always has them around the holidays. They can dress up just about anything.
I’ll have to pin this to remember to try later!
I agree!