November 22, 2011

Granola To Go!

As gals on-the-go, healthy snacks are a must to keep our Energizer Bunny paces going and to provide us with the daily nutrition we require. But it’s not always easy finding a quick, convenient snack we can take on the road or enjoy while winding down at home.
We’re all familiar with granola, but did you know that oats deliver soluble fiber, which helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels and keeps your heart and intestines healthy? Or that granola is low in fat, has no saturated fat and it’s fiber can help keep your blood sugar healthy? If you buy the kind that has dried fruits in it, you’re automatically adding minerals, vitamins and fiber to your diet!

The best part? There are so many ways to enjoy granola:

• Sprinkle it on your favourite yogurt with fresh fruit
• Add it to muffins, cookies and quick breads in place of rolled oats or some of the   flour
• Add it to your baked fruit crisps
• Enjoy it in the form of a granola bar

Here’s one of our personal favourite recipes using granola, courtesy of the Whole Foods Market website:

Granola Balls

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup 365 Organic Everyday Value™ Hullabaloo Mix or other favourite trail mix

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spread the oats and coconut on a baking sheet. Place in the oven and toast for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned.   Meanwhile, combine the peanut butter, honey and brown sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook until the brown sugar has completely dissolved, stirring continuously so as to prevent scorching.   Add the toasted oats and coconut to the peanut butter mixture along with the trail mix and stir to combine. Set aside to cool for 10 minutes.   Working with dampened hands, shape into 12 one-inch balls and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. Makes about 12.

We promise, this recipe won’t disappoint even the pickiest eaters so get your granola to go!

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