Overnight Oats: A Seasonal Favorite Using Local Winter Grains
Jan 31, 2026 ● By Janie Maxwell, MS, RDN Executive Director, Illinois Farmers Market Association
Photo credit Janie Maxwell
Image courtesy Illinois Farmers Market Association
Looking for a quick, satisfying and nutritious breakfast featuring Illinois-grown ingredients? Overnight oats are made in advance and can be customized to fit your dietary needs and goals.
Oats are a nutrition powerhouse. They’re a whole grain full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Oats may provide heart health benefits and are a good source of fiber.
The following recipe is for a single serving. It can be made directly into a glass jar or container or multiplied and made in a larger glass bowl with a lid. Whether you want individual servings or enough for a crowd, this recipe works for you.
It’s also flexible—you can modify it based on what you have on hand.
Illinois has farmers that produce grains like oats. Check out Janie’s Mill or Hazzard Farms online stores.
Artisan grain and honey producers can also be found at winter farmers markets. There are more than 40 winter farmers markets in Illinois. Visit the Illinois Farmers Market Association website (ilfma.org/find-a-market) to find a winter market near you. Winter markets feature items that can be produced or made year-round.
Photo credit Janie Maxwell
OVERNIGHT OATS
YIELD: 1 SERVING
½ cup rolled oats, not instant*
½ cup milk or any plant-based milk
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
1 Tbsp chia seeds or oat bran
1-2 tsp local honey*
¼ cup fresh or frozen fruit
(I used the blueberries I bought at a
farmers market last summer and froze)
1 Tbsp slivered almonds
*May be available at a winter farmers market
Measure all ingredients directly into a glass jar with a lid—Ball mason jars work perfectly. Stir, then place in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 2 hours. Serve with additional fruit if desired.
Janie Maxwell, MS, RDN, is the executive director of the Illinois Farmers Market Association (ILFMA). ILFMA supports local food and food systems by giving Illinois farmers markets and producers access to resources, education and connections to grow healthier and economically vibrant communities. For more information, visit ilfma.org.
