Recipe By Gillian Mandich, BHSc., MSc | Photo By Yaira Estrada-Wagner
A lot of fitness buffs refrain from eating grains and gluten, whether they suffer from sensitivities, or because it’s a nutrition strategy that best suits their goals in the gym and on the scale. But that means that these dedicated dieters have to miss out on one of the most versatile and satisfying snacks a food lover could ask for. That is, until now!
All natural, unprocessed and completely void of grains, this homemade granola recipe is the answer to any cereal lover’s prayers for a healthy option. It’s high in omega fatty acids and even packs a bit of protein.
Add it to your day: Stir into yogurt as a pre-workout snack, sprinkle on salads, or throw it in a container in your purse for on-the-go snacking.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Makes 12-15 servings
3 tbsp coconut oil
2 cups raw, sliced almonds
1 cup raw, unsalted pecans, chopped
1/2 cup unsalted pumpkin seeds
1/4 cup raw honey
3/4 cup unsweetened coconut, shredded
1 cup dried cranberries
1 vanilla bean, seeded
Pinch sea salt
1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
Zest of 1 orange
1. Melt coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add nuts, pumpkin seeds, and coconut to the skillet and stir. Drizzle with raw honey. Cook over medium heat while stirring until the honey and oil cling to the nuts and begin to “boil” slightly.
3. Add remaining dried fruit, spices, and vanilla bean to the skillet. Stir to coat.
4.Transfer mixture onto a large piece of parchment paper. Let cool for at least 1 hour, then store in an airtight container in the fridge.
Nutrients per serving (1/2 cup):
Calories: 370
Fat: 29g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 8g
