Quinoa Granola

Store-bought granola is often super sugary and filled with refined carbs. This recipe makes the morning staple healthy, flavorful, and satisfying by swapping in better ingredients. It starts with quinoa, an ancient grain that is an incredible source of plant-based protein and provides manganese and copper, minerals that act as antioxidants. Almonds contribute healthy fats, and cinnamon provides a variety of health-boosting benefits, from fighting inflammation to protecting your brain cells.Health

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup quinoa, rinsed and dried
1/4 cup almonds, chopped
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 tablespoon agave syrup
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup unsweetened, dried cranberries
6 ounces plain yogurt

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400 F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix oats, quinoa, almonds, and cinnamon in large bowl and set aside.
3. Combine the applesauce, agave syrup, and vanilla extract in small saucepan over low heat until heated through.
4. Pour applesauce mixture into reserved oat mixture. Stir evenly to coat.
5. Lay coated oats evenly on baking sheet.
6. Bake 30 to 40 minutes, stirring halfway through.
7. Remove from oven and top with cranberries.
8. Let cool completely on baking sheet.
9. Top yogurt with 2 tablespoons and store remainder in airtight glass container.

WHY WE LOVE THIS RECIPE Healthy granola is great to have on hand as one part of an energy-boosting breakfast. You can eat it on yogurt or Greek yogurt and top it off with fresh berries. You can also eat it on its own with almond milk (just watch the portion size). In that scenario, we suggest throwing in a hunk (or two) of nut butter for extra protein.