Back to Blogging with some Power Granola

It's been a while since my last post. Unfortunately, when life gets busy, the blog is typically the first thing I neglect. Now, back to regularly scheduled blogging...

Over the past year, there have been many changes in  my life. Most notably, I became a mother to an absolutely perfect little boy, Lucas Gordon Kelm. Lucas was born on June 25, 2012 and I am so lucky and proud to be his mom. He amazes me everyday : )

I've slowly been getting back to life as usual over the past 10 weeks including the occasional glass of wine and some lovely dinners with friends and colleagues. Although I do love those indulgences, I also have to keep on track to get the 20 lbs of baby weight off. One of my favourite go-to recipes for a healthy, quick breakfast or snack is Power Granola. For breakfast, simply add some milk or yogurt (I like using Greek yogurt) and/or fresh fruit and it will keep you full for hours!

Power Granola
(adapted from Cooking Light's original recipe)

Ingredients

2 cups regular oats
1/3 cup ground flaxseed
1/4 cup ground chia seed
1/2 cup almonds
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/3 cup orange juice
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/3 cup honey
2 teaspoons canola oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparation


Preheat oven to 300°.

Combine first 5 ingredients in a medium bowl. 

Combine orange juice, honey, and brown sugar in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat just until sugar dissolves, stirring frequently. Remove from heat; stir in oil and vanilla.

Pour wet mixture over dry ingredients, stirring to coat. Spread mixture in a thin layer onto a sheet pan coated with cooking spray. Bake at 300° for 10 minutes; stir well. Bake an additional 15 to 20 minutes or until golden brown. Cool completely and enjoy! 

Note: Store cooled granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Cheers!