RECIPE
Healthy Homemade Granola
Are you searching for a tasty yet wholesome snack to power your active lifestyle? Look no further than this homemade healthy granola recipe! Packed with nutrient-rich ingredients, this granola is perfect for refueling after a vigorous workout or keeping you energized during those long days on the field or court.
Why We Love This Recipe for Young Athletes:
Nutrient-Dense: Oats provide a good source of complex carbohydrates, while nuts and seeds offer healthy fats and protein, ideal for sustaining energy levels during physical activity.
Customizable: Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Add your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits for a personalized touch.
Convenient and Cost-Effective: Making your own granola at home not only ensures you know exactly what's going into it but also saves you money compared to store-bought options.
Pre- and Post-Workout Fuel: Enjoy a serving of this homemade granola before a workout for a quick energy boost, or snack on it afterward to aid in muscle recovery.
Ingredients:
4 cups gluten free oats
1 ½ cup raw nuts and/or seeds
1 teaspoon fine-grain sea salt (adjust if using table salt)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ Chia Seed
¼ Hemp Seed
1/3 cup melted coconut oil or olive oil
1/3 cup maple syrup or honey
3 egg whites (beaten)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
⅔ cup dried fruit, chopped if large
Instructions:
Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, nuts and/or seeds, salt, and cinnamon. Stir to blend evenly.
Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the oil, maple syrup and/or honey, beaten egg whites, and vanilla extract. Mix well until every oat and nut is lightly coated with the mixture.
Spread and Bake: Transfer the granola mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Use a large spoon to spread it out evenly. Bake for about 21 to 24 minutes, stirring halfway through. For extra-clumpy granola, press the mixture down with a spatula during stirring.
Cool and Add Fruit: Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet, undisturbed, for at least 45 minutes. Once cooled, top with the dried fruit and optional chocolate chips if desired.
Store: Transfer the granola to an airtight container for storage. It can be kept at room temperature for 1 to 2 weeks or stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. If frozen, allow it to warm to room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Whether you're gearing up for game day or simply need a nutritious snack to power through your day, this homemade healthy granola is sure to become a staple in your athletic routine. Give it a try and taste the difference it can make in your performance and overall well-being!
