Nutty Lemon Granola: The Perfect Energizing Snack for Your Adventures
Imagine a vibrant, crunchy granola mix, bursting with the wholesome goodness of sliced almonds, chopped hazelnuts, and crunchy pecan pieces, all beautifully infused with the bright, refreshing zest and juice of fresh lemons. This isn’t just any snack food; it’s a culinary delight designed to energize and satisfy, perfect for a sunny summer day or any time you need a delicious boost.
Fueling Adventures: The Transformation of Our Snack Pantry
Ever since we made the move to Moab, our approach to pantry stocking has undergone a complete and exciting transformation. Gone are the days of random crackers and chips filling our cupboards. Our new lifestyle, deeply immersed in the breathtaking desert wonderland of Utah, demands heartier, more substantial snacks that truly fuel us. Nearly every weekend, we find ourselves out hiking, exploring, and embracing spontaneous adventures. With most of our excursions being spur-of-the-moment, having readily available, nutritious food is absolutely essential. We often find ourselves simply grabbing a handful of whatever wholesome goodness is in the cupboard and heading out the door.
This shift wasn’t just about taste; it was about necessity. The intense physical demands of exploring Utah’s vast and beautiful landscapes quickly highlighted a gap in our previous snacking habits. Packaged granola bars, while convenient, were flying off the shelves at an alarming rate, and our weekly grocery bill was certainly feeling the impact. This led me to get more creative with our hiking provisions, seeking out homemade solutions that were both cost-effective and truly satisfying. Lately, a combination of fresh fruit and a generous bag of homemade granola has been our go-to, keeping us energized and content on even the longest trails.
The Zesty Secret: Why This Nutty Lemon Granola Stands Out
Among all the homemade snack experiments, this nutty lemon granola recipe has truly captured my heart. Its charm lies in its beautiful simplicity and the delightful hint of fresh lemon that brightens every single bite. This zesty addition is such a fun, summery twist, elevating the classic granola experience. The combination of three distinct nuts – delicate sliced almonds, robust chopped hazelnuts, and rich pecan pieces – provides a fantastic textural variety and a deep, satisfying flavor profile. Each nut contributes its own character, creating a symphony of crunch and taste that perfectly complements the bright citrus notes.
Beyond its incredible flavor, this homemade granola offers immense versatility. It’s not just a fantastic, satisfying snack to enjoy by the handful straight from the bag during a hike or a busy workday. It also transforms into a wonderful breakfast or dessert component. Imagine it generously sprinkled over a bowl of creamy yogurt, or served with a splash of milk and a big pile of seasonal summer fruits like sweet peaches, juicy cherries, or plump blueberries. The lemon flavor truly shines, making it an ideal companion to the natural sweetness of ripe fruit. The aroma that fills your kitchen while this granola bakes is an added bonus, a promise of the deliciousness to come.
Why Choose Homemade Granola? Benefits Beyond Taste
Making your own granola is a rewarding experience, offering numerous benefits over store-bought alternatives. Firstly, you have complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to avoid excessive sugars, unhealthy oils, and artificial additives often found in commercial products. This homemade nutty lemon granola, for instance, uses a balanced blend of natural sweeteners like honey and a neutral oil, ensuring a truly wholesome treat. You can also customize the nut mixture to your preference, adding or substituting based on what you love or have on hand.
Secondly, the cost savings are significant. Buying high-quality pre-made granola can quickly add up, especially when you consume it regularly as we do. Crafting a large batch at home is far more economical, providing you with a generous supply of healthy, delicious snacks for a fraction of the price. This makes it a smart choice for budget-conscious families or anyone looking to reduce their grocery expenses without compromising on quality or taste.
Finally, there’s the sheer joy of creation and the incredible aroma that fills your home as it bakes. The act of mixing wholesome ingredients and watching them transform into golden, crunchy goodness is incredibly satisfying. Plus, knowing exactly what goes into your body, or into the backpacks of your loved ones, provides a peace of mind that store-bought items simply cannot match. This nutty lemon granola is packed with fiber from the oats, healthy fats from the nuts, and essential vitamins, making it a powerful energy source for any activity.
A Must-Try Recipe for Every Occasion
Whether your days are filled with ambitious outdoor explorations, like traversing desert trails and scaling majestic rock formations, or simply tackling a demanding to-do list at home or work, this nutty lemon granola recipe is an absolute must-try. It provides sustained energy, tastes incredible, and offers a refreshing burst of flavor that sets it apart. It’s a versatile staple that fits seamlessly into any routine, providing a healthy and delicious option when hunger strikes.
So, get ready to preheat your oven and fill your home with the enticing aroma of toasted oats, nuts, and bright lemon. This homemade granola is not just food; it’s a small act of self-care and a commitment to fueling your body with the best. Prepare to fall in love with its irresistible crunch and vibrant flavor!
Nutty Lemon Granola
Pin Recipe
Leave a Review
Ingredients
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (not quick cooking) (300 grams)
- 1 cup sliced almonds (86 grams)
- 1 cup chopped hazelnuts (142 grams)
- 1 cup chopped pecans (113 grams)
- ¼ cup packed light or dark brown sugar (30 grams)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ⅓ cup honey (113 grams)
- ¼ cup coconut oil, grapeseed oil or other neutral oil (52 grams)
- 2 lemons , zested and juiced
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 250°F. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
-
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, almonds, hazelnuts, pecans, brown sugar, cinnamon and salt. In a separate bowl whisk together the honey, oil, lemon juice and lemon zest. Add to the oat mixture and stir until combined.
-
Spread the mixture on the prepared sheet pan and bake until golden brown, about 1 hour 15 minutes, stirring it every 15 minutes. Let cool completely, then store in an airtight container for 1-2 weeks.
Notes
Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Diamond of California as part of a long-term culinary ambassadorship. Thank you for supporting partnerships with brands I love and believe in, which make Completely Delicious possible. All opinions are always 100% my own.
To find more great recipes using nuts, visit the Diamond Nuts website. You can also find them on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest, and Instagram.