80--- Applesauce Granola with Quinoa

When it comes to granola there are two types of people in this world.

Those who think that granola is a hippie health food.

And those who think that it is too high in fat to really be part of the every day menu.

Truth be told, granola can be a health food.  It is laden with grains, nuts, and often fruits which are full of fiber, plant protein, healthy fats, vitamins and minerals.

However, it can also be laden with fat from the oil and/or butter used in it's preparation.

This granola has applesauce used in place of much the fat that would typically be added.  Keep in mind that SOME fat is still a balanced part of your diet- it's satisfying and the right kinds of fat (unsaturated) have many health benefits!


Applesauce Granola with Quinoa
Makes ~ 4 cups

1 1/2 cups quick cooking steel cut oats (Bob's Red Mill makes a variety)
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup quinoa (any variety- I used a sprouted mixture)
3/4 cup chopped raw almonds
2 Tbsp chia seeds
3 Tbsp flaxmeal
3/4 tsp ground cinnamon
2 Tbsp honey
3 Tbsp pure maple syrup
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
2 Tbsp canola oil

Preheat oven to 300 degrees.

Mix together oats, quinoa, almonds, chia seeds, flaxmeal, and cinnamon in a large bowl.

In a smaller microwave-safe bowl, whisk together applesauce, honey, maple syrup, and oil.  Microwave for ~ 1 minute, until heated through.

Stir warm wet ingredients into dry ingredients until well coated.

Spoon mixture onto a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake for ~45-50 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure that the mixture at the edges of the sheet do not become overly brown.

Remove mixture from oven and allow to cool to room temperature before storing in an airtight container.

Serve with your favorite type of milk or spooned over Greek yogurt with fruit.

Nutrition Info per 1/2 cup: 309 calories, 12 g fat (11 g unsaturated), 8 g protein, 36 g carbohydrates, 7 g fiber