Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! I’m absolutely thrilled to share my recipe for Savory Oatmeal Bars! You heard that right—oatmeal can be savory! I first stumbled upon this delightful idea while searching for healthier snacks to quell my constant hunger while working from home. Let’s just say, these bars have become my go-to for mid-afternoon munchies! Not only do they taste fantastic, but they’re also surprisingly easy to make.
These Savory Oatmeal Bars are a game changer in my kitchen. I love that they’re packed with flavors from cheese and spices, and they’re super filling thanks to the hearty oats. Plus, if you add a side of salsa or your favorite dip, they make a perfect addition to any gathering—or a simply delicious snack for a cozy night in binge-watching my latest series obsession.
What’s in Savory Oatmeal Bars?
Let’s break down the ingredients, shall we? Each one has its special role in creating these savory treats!
Rolled Oats: These are the star of the show! They provide the foundation of the bars and offer fiber that keeps you feeling full longer. I recommend using old-fashioned rolled oats for that perfect chewy texture.
Almond Meal (or Flour): For that nutty flavor and a bit of protein, almond meal is fantastic! If you’re in a pinch, almond flour will work too, just remember it’s a bit finer.
Grated Cheese: Cheddar or mozzarella—take your pick! I love the sharpness of cheddar, but mozzarella gives a lovely melt factor. Cheese makes everything better, doesn’t it?
Fresh Parsley and Green Onions: These add a fresh, vibrant taste that brightens up the bars. You can also swap in other herbs like chives if that’s more your jam!
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These two are my secret flavor agents! They infuse the bars with a wonderful savory depth.
Salt and Black Pepper: Classic seasoning duo to enhance all those delicious flavors.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional): A little kick, if you like! I personally enjoy a slight heat, but leave it out if you’re not feeling spicy.
Olive Oil: This keeps everything moist and helps bind the mixture together.
Water: Just enough to bring the ingredients together into a lovely, sticky mix.
Is Savory Oatmeal Bars Good for You?
Absolutely! These bars are packed with wholesome ingredients.
Rolled Oats: Not only are they rich in fiber, but they also help regulate blood sugar levels, making them a great choice for a snack or quick breakfast.
Almond Meal: This is a fabulous source of healthy fats and protein. Plus, it’s gluten-free!
Cheese: It brings flavor and provides calcium, which is essential for strong bones. Just keep in mind it can be a bit higher in calories, so enjoy it in moderation.
Overall, these bars are a balanced snack. The oats will fill you up, while the cheese and almond meal provide a little protein to keep your energy levels steady.
Ingredients
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1/2 cup almond meal (or flour)
– 1/2 cup grated cheese (e.g., cheddar or mozzarella)
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup water
This recipe yields approximately 16 bars, depending on how big your cuts are!
How to Make Savory Oatmeal Bars?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Don’t forget to grease or line an 8×8 inch (or similar size) baking dish with parchment paper. This is crucial to getting those bars out later!
2. In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond meal, grated cheese, parsley, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to combine.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the olive oil and water until blended. Pour this into the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated. The mixture should be sticky yet hold together.
4. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish, pressing down firmly to create an even layer. This ensures they bake evenly!
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the bars are golden brown and set. A kitchen timer is your best friend here!
6. Once done, remove from the oven and let cool completely in the dish before cutting into bars. Patience is key!
7. Serve with your favorite dip or salsa on the side for that extra flavor punch. Enjoy!
Creative Serving Suggestions!
These Savory Oatmeal Bars are so versatile! You can try serving them with some Greek yogurt dip or a tangy salsa for a fun twist. If you want to turn them into a meal, consider adding them to a salad, where they can shine as a crunchy topping.
Feel free to experiment with different herbs or types of cheese based on what you have on hand. Got some leftover feta? Crumble it in! The possibilities are endless!
I can’t wait for you to try these Savory Oatmeal Bars! They’re a crowd-pleaser and perfect for meal prep. Share your experience and let me know what creative twists you’ll add! Happy cooking!
