SLIM PICKINGS

WHAT: Quaker Overnight Oats

STATS: Vary by flavor. One cup of the Blueberry, Banana & Vanilla Bliss contains 240 calories and 4.5 fat, 47 carbohydrate, 5 fiber, 13 sugar and 7 protein grams as packaged. We found them at Wal-Mart, 700 Bowman Road, Little Rock. See more at: quakeroats.com. THE SKINNY: We have a problem with these Quaker Overnight Oats (well, two, we’re not huge oatmeal fans). The overnight part. To enjoy the cold mixture of rolled oats, sugar, flaxseed, quinoa and ingredients like nuts, coconut and fruit (if “banana flake powder” counts as produce) one must be organized enough to remember to prep it — pour in milk, stir, refrigerate — the night before. Be sure to allot calories for the milk; a half-cup of skim adds another 50.

Our soggy-mushy texture issues aside, the Blueberry, Banana & Vanilla Bliss and Toasted Coconut & Almond Crunch flavors (Orchard Peach Pecan Perfection and Raisin Walnut & Honey Heaven are other options) tasted fine as prepared and kept us satisfied for several hours.

But ultimately, we’re better with quickie breakfasts that require eight minutes and not eight hours. Slim Pickings is a weekly review of light foods. jchristman@arkansasonline.com