Simple, delicious (and maybe life-changing) Granola

Here is the Granola I made last night. I must confess, while quarantined in my house with my family because of the coronavirus, I've been moping around feeling sorry for myself. It's easy in these times of uncertainty to feel as if the world is against you. Heck, I still feel that way a little bit but making this granola has definitely shifted my perspective. I'm not saying this granola has super powers and that the luscious smell of honey will not only lift your taste buds but also your spirits. Of course, you're entitled to that opinion. I'm saying that this was the first time in the nine days of social distancing that I decided to change my approach. If there's anything the coronavirus has taught me, it's that life does not go as planned. If life followed my schedule, I would be skiing in Sun Valley, Idaho right now with my family, but seeing as life enjoys throwing curve balls, I'm instead making granola. Would I rather be skiing? Yes. Is there anything I can do about it? No. But I can change my outlook. I've realized that you need to enjoy the now, even if it wasn't what you expected. Appreciate the loved ones you have around you and the brave doctors and nurses risking their lives for the safety of others. So instead of moping around, I encourage everyone to love more, listen to some good music, read a book, eat some chocolate, and make some granola. And who knows, maybe it's exactly what you've been needing all along.

You're probably wondering: How can I make this holy grail of granola? Well, lucky for you, it may just be the simplest thing you've ever made in your life.

Makes: Serves:

5 cups (give or take) However many late snacks your heart desires

Prep time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

20 minutes to 30 minutes depending on how crunchy you like your granola

Ingredients:

- 1/2 cup canola oil (any neutral oil, such as coconut or olive oil)

- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup

- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 3 cups rolled oats

- 1 cup sliced almonds

Optional: dried, chopped fruit

Equipment:

- Measuring cups and spoons

- Large bowl

- Whisk

- Rimmed baking sheet

- Parchment paper

Instructions (but you know, rules are to be broken...)

- Heat your oven to 300°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper

- Whisk together in a biggish bowl the oil, honey, cinnamon and salt

- Add the oats and almonds to the party (AKA the oil mixture)

- Stir everything together with love.

- Spread the mixed oats and almonds out onto the prepared baking sheet

- Bake for 20-30 minutes, stirring halfway through (ideally the granola is ready when golden-brown - it will still feel a tad wet coming out of the oven but will dry as it cools, don't worry)

- Take your masterpiece out of the oven and add your own flair (fruit, more nuts, go crazy!)

- Store in a container, mason jar and enjoy!

*This recipe is adapted from the kitchn

Some ways I've been enjoying the granola is in my smoothie bowl, in yogurt with fruit, (I love bananas and yogurt.) or as a late night snack.

Stay calm and eat granola!