Overnight oats are the most delicious healthy breakfast idea that can be prepared ahead of time and last for almost an entire week. The whole grain oats are packed with fiber, protein and essential nutrients.
What do you store overnight oats in? The best way of storing overnight oats is in a glass or plastic meal-prep container with a lid. 16 oz mason jars or glass pyrex bowl with a secure lid works wonder.
The overnight oats can be made in a mason jar and stored just like that. Storing them in single-serve containers like jars is an excellent way of ensuring that the portions are adequately sized and under control.
Instead of cooking the oats, they can be eaten raw after soaking in liquid such as water, milk or juice for at least 12 hours or overnight. Don’t consume unsoaked oats as they are likely to cause digestive issues when not properly cooked or hydrated.
After soaking the oats in liquid, the texture becomes soft and chewy, similar to the classic oatmeal, making them easier to digest. Answered below are frequently asked questions about how overnight oats can be stored. Read through to get in-depth information!
What are overnight oats?
Overnight oats are a no-cooked method used to make oatmeal. Typically made up of plain old-fashioned oats, the raw oats can be soaked with milk or water instead of cooking the oatmeal on the stovetop or in the microwave.
The whole process of soaking allows the oats to absorb the liquid and soften them enough to eat uncooked.
For overnight oats to be ready to eat, they need to be allowed to rest for about 12 hours, so the ideal thing to go for is soaking overnight, thus the common name overnight oats.
How do you store overnight oats in the fridge?
Single serve portions of overnight oats can be easily stored in individual airtight containers in the fridge for up to five days.
The little secret behind this is that the longer the overnight oats are stored in the fridge, the softer they will be, which might be a bonus for those who like their oatmeal super-creamy.
The soaked oats are best on day one or two when they are still soft and have retained the toothsome chew, but five days is usually the maximum.
Over time during the storage process, the liquid will be separated from the oats as the container sits in the fridge, stir to ensure everything has been reincorporated for a joyful experience.
Additionally garnishes like coconut flakes, nuts, granola, and fresh fruits should be left out and added at the last minute if you choose to store the oats for about a week.
What containers do you put overnight oats in?
Containers that work well for soaking the oats overnight include glass mason jars, Tupperware containers, plastic meal prep containers, or medium-sized bowls with plastic wrap over the top.
I avoid polypropylene and plastic materials because the odors easily permeate the containers, and the smell can last indefinitely.
Some of the factors to consider when selecting a container to store overnight oats include the size of the jar, material of the storage container, lid of the jar, or shape of the container according to personal preference.
Can I store overnight oats in Tupperware?
Yes, the overnight oats can be safely stored in the all-time favorite Tupperware containers.
Tupperware containers are cheap to purchase, very reliable and available in a variety of shapes, sizes and unique colors.
Some of the benefits of storing overnight oats in Tupperware containers are that they are always travel-friendly when on the go. The anti-spill, airtight seal, keeps the oats from turning soggy and prevents any accidental leakages.
Using Tupperware containers are also helpful in making large family servings. These containers are lovely and transparent, showing off the layers when serving the table.
Disposal containers for overnight oats
Plastic containers are highly disposable after storing overnight oats for single use purposes. Furthermore, plastic containers are very durable, lightweight, and less fragile than other materials such as ceramics and glass.
However, plastic often holds onto the strong aromas, and no one would want their overnight oatmeal to taste like the last week’s gravy. As a result, the most preferred vessel for storing overnight oats is a glass mason jar or Tupperware container.
How long will overnight oats last in the fridge?
When stored correctly in the airtight containers, overnight oats will remain fresh for 5 to 7 days in the fridge.
The overnight oatmeal is typically served chilled and straight from the fridge, making it an excellent option for the warmer months. However, the soaked oats can undoubtedly be enjoyed year-round.
Storing Overnight Oats: Conclusion
Overnight oats are perfect for a lazy day breakfast, but are healthy enough to give energy to start on the right foot.
The mason jars and Tupperware containers are the most common for storing the soaked oats overnight. The overnight oats containers are portable, and make it extremely easy to assemble single serving meal prep for the week.
Soaking oats overnight helps remove or break down some of the phytic acid. If you soaked them before consuming, then your body is able to digest them better!
Overnight oats are an excellent source of fat, protein and essential vitamins and minerals, making the meal both healthy and wholesome.
Though some people prefer glass jars for storing oats, others may find plastic containers to be less breakable and easier to transport. Make the container choice based on personal preference, and add oats overnight to your weekly routine.
I love eating it for breakfast or at night. Overnight oats are delicious all day long!