Gingerbread is a quintessential holiday flavour that lends itself to a variety of applications both sweet and savoury. Here we showcase it in a make-ahead breakfast that is crowned with warm caramelized pears and toasted nuts. The combination of warm and cold elevates this breakfast from a simple bowl of oatmeal into something a little special, fit for the holidays. Feel free to double or triple the recipe should you need to feed a larger crowd.
Getting warmer
Overnight oats are generally eaten cold; however, if you prefer your oatmeal warm, you can transform your overnight oats in a few simple steps. Place enough milk just to cover bottom of a saucepan and place over medium heat. Once liquid starts to simmer, add overnight oat mixture and reduce heat to low. Stir constantly until oat mixture is warmed through. Serve topped as desired.
Per serving:
In medium bowl, with wooden spoon, stir together rolled oats, chia seeds, ground flaxseed, hemp hearts, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and allspice.
In medium bowl, whisk together molasses, vanilla extract, 1 Tbsp (15 mL) maple syrup, and milk. Pour over oat mixture and stir until well combined. Transfer to airtight container and refrigerate for at least 6 hours to overnight. Overnight oats may be made up to 2 days ahead.
When ready to serve, make caramelized pears. In large frying pan, add pear slices and remaining 2 Tbsp (30 mL) maple syrup and bring to a hard simmer over medium-high heat. Let pears cook and caramelize while flipping pears occasionally, about 4 minutes total. Remove frying pan from heat and set aside.
If desired, thin out overnight oats with additional milk to desired consistency. Divide among serving bowls and top with yogurt, caramelized pear slices, and a sprinkle of toasted hazelnuts.
This vegan take on classic shepherd’s pie is jam-packed with bold and rich flavours that will ensure no one will miss the meat. While a great source of fibre, lentils also contain the highest amount of folate out of all plant-based foods. Oven ready If you don’t have an ovenproof skillet, you’ll need to transfer cooked lentil filling to a baking dish before topping with mashed sweet potatoes and baking.
Cauliflower has been having a moment lately, and this salad proves exactly why. Tender caramelized cauliflower is crowned in a glorious sweet and savoury crumble that will ensure it a place on your table all month long. Of all tree nuts, pecans have the highest concentration of flavonoids, which offer beneficial anti-inflammatory effects, and they also protect your cells from oxidative damage. Crumble perfection This crumble topping is too good not to use it on other preparations. Sprinkle over a carrot ribbon salad to add some extra pizzazz, use as a glorious garnish on a soup or stew, or consider generously spooning over your next vegetable “steak” to add some delicious textural variation.
This gloriously comforting dish gets its creamy lusciousness from a can of white beans. Feel free to use whatever vegetables you have on hand instead of broccoli. Pass the pasta Instead of regular pasta, consider serving this sauce over zucchini noodles, carrot noodles, or cooked spaghetti squash.
This nut-free take on classic queso dip is everything you want and more. Paired with chips, crackers, or crudités, this creamy, zesty, smoky, and oh-so-satisfying dip is easy enough to whip up for a cozy snack or as an appetizer for company. Go nuts! If you’re okay to eat nuts, try substituting sunflower seeds with 1 cup (250 mL) raw cashews.