Coconut Pineapple Overnight Oats

These coconut pineapple flavoured overnight oats are a way to take the flavours of a piña colada into a very healthy dish that can be acceptable first thing in the morning (rum optional). The oats are dense and hearty, and they thicken up to a rich mixture overnight with the help of some chia seeds and coconut milk. Some dates add natural sweetness and some cashew butter makes it all extra decadently creamy.Cereal is defined as grass that produces edible grains but the word itself comes from “Cerealis”, Latin for “of Ceres”, the Roman goddess of agriculture. Back then, oats were the lowliest of the cereals. They were considered weeds amongst the king crops of wheat and barley and they were discarded as no more than horse feed. The consumption of oats by the Germanic tribes was seen as an example of their disdainful barbarism. No historian would attribute the sacking of Rome to oatmeal, but it can certainly fill a belly and set the consumer up with sustained satiation and mental and physical energy.Overnight oats, like chia pudding, are not very pleasing to the eye. Since we eat with all our senses the presentation can go a long way in making them more enjoyable. Serving the oat mixture in hollowed out pineapple halves and sprinkling on some toppings with different flavours, colours and textures can make the dish feel extra special. I really believe that how we feed ourselves is a direct expression of how we treat ourselves overall, inside and out, and adding a bit of extra flair to something as basic as oats can be a good way to be good to ourselves.Toasted coconut ribbons have a light, crisp texture and have the enticing fragrance of roasted coconut. They are available in bulk and baking sections in health stores and large grocers. Regular shaved coconut would work well too but always go for unsweetened options when possible. Cutting out refined sugars as much as possible can make the meal more satiating and keep us more balanced.Dried pineapple is extra sweet and has a thick, chewy texture like gummy candies. It is a thematic addition to make the oats into more of a dessert, though it will still be bursting with nutrients and natural flavours.