Healthier Granola

So in an effort to start the year on a healthy note, I made granola.  This granola is a pretty healthy version – it is full of whole grain oats, no salt nuts, a little healthy olive oil and does not have a ton of sugar.  What is great about this recipe is you can add whatever you want.  If you need a no-nut version – add more seeds, coconut and dried fruit.  If you love nuts chock it full o’ nuts.

This granola is super fantastic for breakfast with milk or yogurt (Greek yogurt is my favorite) or on it’s own for a little afternoon pick-me-up.

I’ve made it so many times since the new year began and here is how I made it.

Ingredients

3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats – I used large flakes

1/4 cup maple syrup

1/4 cup light tasting olive oil

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1 tsp. cinnamon

Add In Ideas – use as many as you wish or others that you can think of

1/4 cup walnuts, coarsely chopped

1/4 cup sliced almonds, coarsely chopped

1/4 cup cashews

1/4 cup pistachio nuts

1/4 cup shelled sunflower seeds

1/4 cup shelled pumpkin seeds

1/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes – I like the big flakes (in fact I put some in that toasted and then added more raw at the end – but I really love coconut)

1/4 cup dried apricots, cut into pieces

1/4 cup dried cranberries

Directions

Mix first five ingredients in a bowl with whatever add ins you choose.

Place on foil lined baking sheet.

Bake 350⁰ for 15 to 20 minutes.  Half way thought, stir up and turn the baking sheet to ensure even baking.

Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack.  Don’t forget if you want to add more raw coconut now is the time to do so.

I think this recipe is a healthy alternative BUT I provide this cautionary note -- it is quite addictive so if you are someone who can’t control themselves and is trying to start the year on a weight loss foot – don’t make it!

But if you do make it, let me know what you added.