To ensure that you’re getting a balanced breakfast, use a type of granola that includes a nutritious mixture of ingredients like nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. Many grocery stores sell specially-blended boxed granolas in the cereal aisle.
Top your hot cereal with sliced bananas, blueberries, cinnamon sugar, or other tasty add-ins, or simply savor the sweet whole grain flavor on its own.
Replace the candy dish on your kitchen counter or your desk at work with a container of granola so you’ll have something healthy to reach for when you get hungry. Try making your own version of trail mix by combining granola with nuts, raisins, and candy-coated chocolates. [4] X Research source
Add blueberries, strawberries, or another fruit for additional fiber and antioxidants. For a lighter alternative, look for non-dairy ice creams made with almond or coconut milk. Whether you’re enjoying a healthy breakfast or an after-dinner treat, the crunch of granola can provide a delightful contrast to the cool creaminess of yogurt or ice cream.
For instance, you might have a banana-nut smoothie bowl topped with granola, freshly-ground almond butter, pistachios, and cacao nibs for breakfast one morning, then make a tangy berry bowl with granola, mixed berries, chia seeds, and shredded coconut the next.
Ripe seasonal apples with nut butter and granola can make a yummy and wholesome snack for kids and adults alike.
Sweeter salads tend to pair best with tangy vinaigrettes and light, creamy dressings. [9] X Research source
Granola bars work well as a quick breakfast, a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, or a late-night snack. Making your own granola bars from scratch is usually healthier than buying them at the store, since you can control everything that goes in them.
Feel free to add or substitute any other ingredients you want to put your own unique spin on things. Items like chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and flax seed are especially popular. [12] X Research source These simple snacks are loaded with protein, fiber, and just enough sugar to give you the energy you need to get through a busy day.
Alternatively, try sprinkling granola clusters directly onto your fresh-baked cookies, muffins, or brownies when they first come out of the oven.
You can prepare chicken, fish, and vegetables this way, all to delicious effect. In order for your breading to stick properly, it may help to pulse the granola a few times in a food processor or blender.
Any dish that ordinarily calls for a breadcrumbs can be made with granola, including stuffed pork chops, fish fillets, peppers, mushrooms, and crab cakes. [16] X Research source
