Nut Butter Oats: Creamy Meal Prep

Instructions:

1. Combine rolled oats, almond milk, chia seeds, and salt in a mason jar and stir vigorously. Note: This ensures no chia clumps form at the bottom.
2. For the stovetop method, combine these same ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat.
3. Bring the pan to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally until the oats look plump and the liquid has reduced by half.
4. Fold in the peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Note: Doing this after the initial soak/simmer keeps the flavors bright.
5. For the overnight version, seal the lid and refrigerate for at least 6 hours.
6. For the stovetop version, reduce heat to low and stir the nut butter in slowly until the mixture looks glossy and uniform.
7. Gently stir in the vanilla protein powder. Note: If using stovetop, remove from heat first so the powder doesn't cook and get grainy.
8. Stir the mixture one final time until you smell the warm vanilla and the texture is velvety.
9. Let it sit for 2 minutes to allow the protein powder to fully hydrate.