This post is written in partnership with The Quaker Oats Company. Thanks for supporting projects that make Nutrition Happen!

Have you spotted the new Quaker Oat Beverage yet? It’s got a smooth texture that makes for a great plant-based swap in any recipe – think smoothies, baked goods, cooked into your oats in the morning, or just on its own!

It’s so much easier now to find plant-based and lactose-free options that fit into your lifestyle, no matter what that looks like. I’m all for more ways to eat oats and oat bran benefits. Quaker’s Oat Beverage is specifically made from oat bran and for every 1 cup serving, you’re getting fiber from the oat bran + chicory root, calcium, and vitamin D.

Studies have shown that 3 grams or more of soluble fiber daily from oat bran, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol may help reduce the risk of heart disease. Oat Beverage has .75 grams of soluble fiber per 8 oz. serving

While smoothies can be a versatile and easy way to pack in a few servings of fruits and vegetables, I know it can be overwhelming to scroll through recipes and see people in the media (whether that’s on social media or online websites) throwing a million different powders and “superfoods” in.

I can tell you right now that a simple recipe made with just a few ingredients is truly all you need for a nutrient-packed smoothie – the basics won’t fail you!

This blueberry oat smoothie is made with 5-ingredients:

1. Blueberries: provides fiber and vitamin c that helps iron absorb in the body
2. Quaker Unsweetened Oat Beverage: provides soluble fiber that may  help support heart-health
3. *Banana: provide two types of fiber – pectin and resistant starch, which can help slow down digestion and keep you full
4. Almond Butter: provides vitamin e, which also helps absorb the healthy fats found in almonds
5. **Hemp seeds: provides plant-based protein and essential omega-3 fatty acids to support healthy skin

This combination of fiber, healthy fats, and protein provides a satisfying way to start your day. And while our goals and lifestyles may require different needs, the one thing we can agree on is this: healthy eating shouldn’t be more complicated than what feels good to you!

*Full benefits are provided in 1 serving of banana = 1 whole banana | **1 serving of hemp seeds = 1 tbsp, which provides 3 grams protein and 3 grams total omega-3 + omega-6 fatty acids 

You can find the Quaker Oat Beverages in the refrigerated dairy alternative aisle nationwide in three flavors: Original, Original Unsweetened, and Vanilla. (Chicago friends – I’ve found them at Jewel Osco!)