Syndicated column week of April 22, 2013.
With warmer weather on the way, many people I know are thinking about exercising and getting into shape. One simple swap that can help you feel better is trading a fast-food breakfast for a homemade bowl of granola.
This change supports both physical and financial wellness. A fast-food breakfast often costs $3–$4, while homemade granola can be made for far less per serving.
My Aunt Grace recently shared her straightforward granola recipe. Its simplicity makes it versatile and easy to adapt to your tastes.
Granola Strawberry Parfait
Aunt Grace’s Granola
6 cups old-fashioned oats
1 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup oil
1 cup chopped dates
Preheat oven to 350°F. In a very large mixing bowl, combine oats, pecans, honey, and oil. Stir well to coat the oats and nuts. Spread the mixture into an oiled 9 x 13-inch baking dish and bake for 30 minutes at 350°F. Remove the pan from the oven and immediately transfer the hot granola back into the mixing bowl (leaving it in the hot pan may overcook it). Let cool, then stir in 1 cup chopped dates.
Granola Close Up – see the walnut and date bits?
Make it a Meal: Use a half cup of granola over yogurt for breakfast, enjoy it as cereal with sliced fresh fruit and milk, or sprinkle it over salads for a crunchy finish.
Approximate Nutritional Information: Servings per recipe: 24. Amount per serving: Calories 262; Total Fat 11 g; Cholesterol 0 mg; Sodium 1 mg; Total Carbohydrates 37 g; Protein 7 g.
Variations: Substitute other dried fruit for the dates—raisins, dried cranberries, or blueberries work well. For a tropical twist, add coconut flakes with dried pineapple and apricot. Swap pecans for chopped walnuts or peanuts to change the flavor and texture.
Granola in pan, fresh from the oven and cooling—you can almost smell the sweetness!
Granola contains fiber, which supports healthy digestion. For detailed nutrition advice, consult a registered dietitian or health professional, but in general, a small bowl of granola with milk or yogurt is a healthier choice than a fried breakfast.
If you’re making small lifestyle changes around nutrition and exercise, start simple. Aunt Grace’s granola is quick to prepare, stores well in an airtight container for up to a month, and makes a tasty, convenient breakfast.
Granola Parfait
Making granola at home also helps your budget—each bowl costs only pennies. Keeping a container of granola on the counter makes it easy to grab a quick, healthy breakfast while you check your morning email.
Noel Lizotte is breaking free of corporate stress with convenience cooking! This recipe is similar to ones printed in her cookbook Apron Free Cooking.
What is your favorite flavor of granola?
Printable Recipe
Don’t forget to share this recipe!
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