Fruit and Nut Granola : A Mediterranean-Inspired Breakfast Staple
There’s something truly special about starting the day with a bowl of homemade granola. For me, it’s the perfect blend of crunchy, sweet, and satisfying, a breakfast that not only tastes amazing but also fuels me for the day ahead. I’ve been making my own fruit and nut granola for a while now, and it’s become a regular part of my weekly routine. What I love most is how adaptable it is. I can change up the ingredients based on what I have on hand, and each batch turns out just as delicious as the last.
This recipe is inspired by the Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes wholesome, nutrient-rich ingredients like whole grains, nuts, seeds, and olive oil. It’s an easy, homemade option that’s perfect for breakfast with yogurt, as a topping for smoothies, or as a crunchy snack any time of day.
Dietary Substitutions and Flavor Variations:
- Gluten-Free Option: Use certified gluten-free oats and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free.
- Vegan-Friendly: Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar to keep this recipe vegan.
- Lower Sugar: Reduce the amount of honey or maple syrup, or use a sugar-free alternative like monk fruit sweetener.
- Spice It Up: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of warmth.
- Change the Nuts & Seeds: Mix and match your favorite nuts and seeds. Pecans, hazelnuts, or even flaxseeds can add different flavors and textures.
Fruit and nut granola
Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- ½ cup quinoa or buckwheat optional
- 1 cup mixed nuts almonds, walnuts, pistachios, roughly chopped
- ¼ cup seeds sunflower, pumpkin, or chia seeds
- ½ cup dried fruit cranberries, apricots, or raisins
- ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine oats, quinoa or buckwheat, nuts, seeds, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl.
- Heat honey (or maple syrup), olive oil, and vanilla extract in a saucepan, then pour over the oat mixture.
- Spread mixture on the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Once done, let it cool, then stir in dried fruit.
- Store cooled granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Enjoy for quick breakfasts or healthy snacks.