We love a good breakfast… especially when it’s insanely delicious but still actually offers an abundance of health benefits. If you’re like us then you need to try “zoats” which ticks both those boxes! Myprotein Nutritonist Charlotte Campbell has written her definitive guide to Zoats below – What are they? How do you make them? What are the dietary benefits and most importantly, how do they taste?!!

How Do You Make Zoats?
Zoats are extremely simple to make (even early in the morning!). Simply follow your usual porridge recipe but replace a third of the oats with grated courgette. Don’t forget, courgettes are high in water so reduce your milk content a little. Good news is if you don’t want to leave the remaining courgette in the fridge, or you’re feeling particularly hungry, you can add as much as the green stuff in as you like!

Do Zoats Work As Overnight Oats?
Of course! As with porridge, be aware of the courgette’s water content. Simply reduce the amount of milk you use, and it’ll be perfect in the morning.

What Are The Benefits Of Zoats?
Firstly, adding courgette to your breakfast is an easy way of getting part of your recommended 5 a day. In addition, they add satisfying but low-calorie bulk to your breakfast. So you can get extra health without sacrificing feeling full. Plus, this is a recipe you can easily heat up in your work microwave. It’s a perfect go-to breakfast or lunch. Alternatively, you could make a small portion for elevenses or afternoon snack. Keeping your energy high never tasted so good.

Courgettes are also high in fibre. You could get up to a third of your recommended daily fibre intake from a portion of zoats. Fibre is a key part of digestion and helps stabilise your blood sugar. This is particularly advantageous for those who work out, as it can keep your energy from crashing. Make sure you keep the skin on when grating, as that is where the soluble fibre is found.

Potassium is also plentiful in courgettes. Potassium enhances muscle strength and metabolism. This makes it a great chose for those looking to trim and tone up. Not only that, but potassium is proven to help ease anxiety and stress. So if you have a big day ahead, you know zoats will have your back.

Do Zoats Taste Good?
Vegetables in your oats may sound strange, but don’t panic. Courgettes are versatile and not overpowering in flavour. So you can simply adapt your favourite porridge or overnight oats recipes. If you’re particularly picky, go for smaller courgettes. They tend to be sweeter. But generally, you won’t notice much of a difference in taste (despite the green tint to your dish!).

Our favourite toppings are:

For a potassium blast: Banana and nut butter

For a tropical treat: Dried coconut and pineapple

For feeling warm and fuzzy: Cinnamon, nutmeg and honey

Need some recipe inspiration? See below some of our favourite Zoats recipes!

Main image – Nourishing Amelia