Orange & Vanilla Overnight Oats

Citrus always sound so tropical and warm-weather to me, but they're actually a WINTER fruit! 
There is a beneficial nutrient in oranges called herperidin, which has been been shown to lower high blood pressure as well as cholesterol, and to have strong anti-inflammatory properties. 

Most of this phytonutrient is found in the peel and INNER WHITE PULP of the orange, rather than in its juice center, so EAT THE WHOLE ORANGE rather than just processed OJ!

Vitamin C is only part of the magical matrix of phytonutrients in citrus fruits, so in order to reap the full benefits, don't rely on vitamin C-fortified sports drinks and supplements. They just don't measure up. 

Orange & Vanilla Overnight Oats
(adapted from Green Kitchen Stories)
Serves 4

1 3/4 cup rolled oats
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 3/4 cup (about 4 oranges) fresh orange juice
1/2 cup sunflower and/or pumpkin seeds
1 cup water for soaking nuts
4 tbsp. shredded coconut, lightly toasted
fresh fruit for serving 

In the evening:
1. Mix oats and vanilla in a bowl, add freshly squeezed orange juice and stir to combine.
2. Place seeds in a bowl and cover with water. Place both bowls in the fridge overnight.

In the morning: 
1. Scoop a couple of spoonfuls of soaked seeds in 4 jars or glasses.
2. Scoop the soaked oats porridge on top of the seeds and cover with fresh fruit and lightly toasted coconut.
Keeps for 3-5 days in the fridge.