Here is a very simple recipe for grain-free granola that's crunchy, chewy and sweet. This is a great addition to your recipe repertoire, especially if you're gluten-free or avoiding grains. The mixture of nuts, seeds, dried fruit and spices makes this a nourishing alternative to highly processed granolas high in sugar and low in protein and fiber that you'll typically find at your supermarket.
The beautiful thing about making homemade recipes is that you can control what goes into them. This grain-free granola is full of nutrients for glowing skin. It also provides healthy fats for a healthy heart and brain, a boost of protein, and is sweetened with maple syrup. This will keep you feeling full, satisfied and energized without the sugar crash.
Did you know? Nuts also contain antioxidants important for neutralizing free radicals that can damage your cells. I love reaching for a mix of nuts, seeds and dried fruit because a small portion helps to keep me fuelled between meals (and is a better option than empty carbs like crackers or chips). This granola is kind of like a trail mix... but even more delicious! Here's the recipe.
You'll need:
1 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, pecans.... whatever you'd like)
1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
1/2 cup mix of dates and dried figs
1/3 cup shredded coconut
Liquid:
1/8 cup coconut oil
3 tbsp maple syrup
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp Vanilla
1 tsp Cinnamon
How-to:
Chop the nuts into small pieces and place in a bowl with the pumpkin seeds and coconut.
Chop the dates and figs and set them aside.
Melt the coconut oil, and add to a bowl with maple syrup, salt, vanilla and cinnamon. Mix well.
Pour the liquid over the nuts, seeds and coconut and toss well.
Place the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment and bake at 375F for 10 minutes. Toss and add in the figs and dates, and cook another 2 mins.
Remove from oven and let cool. Store in a glass jar and enjoy!