Autumn is in full swing and I’m still finding ways to use my seasonal fruits, vegetables, and spices. My clients have raved about my granola recipes… I’m kind of a big fan too. Well, today I’m going all pumpkin crazy. Pumpkin puree, pumpkin seeds, and pumpkin spice. THE PUMPKIN TRIO!!
The Marvelous Pumpkin Seed
- Pumpkin seeds are rich in manganese and vitamin K, both of which are important in helping wounds heal.
- They also contain zinc, a mineral that not only helps the immune system but also helps your skin heal after an injury.
- Zinc may also protect skin from UV damage and acts as an antioxidant.
- Pumpkin seeds also contain cucurbitacin, which is a unique amino acid that helps in hair growth.
- They are are also rich in vitamin C, which also plays an important role in hair growth and healthy skin.
- Pumpkin seeds are especially beneficial for women in terms of a better bone density. Being highly rich in magnesium and calcium, pumpkin seeds help maintain healthy bones. It also helps reduce the risk of osteoporosis in women ( a common issue among women post-menopause)
- A quarter cup of pumpkin seeds dadily, which is approximately 30 g will provide you with a good amount of protein, healthy fats, fiber, zinc, selenium, magnesium, and other effective nutrients.
Can you see why I love this recipe so much! The benefits of pumpkin, along with these benefits of the pumpkin seeds… it’s a powerhouse of awesomeness. Enjoy the granola!
Pumpkin Spice Granola
Ingredients
- 3 cups Oats rolled
- 1 cup Walnuts chopped
- 1/2 cup Pumpkin Seeds
- 1/4 cup Ground Flax Seed
- 1/4 tsp Sea Salt
- 3/4 tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice
- 1/2 tsp Cinnamon
- 1/4 cup Coconut Oil
- 1/3 cup Maple Syrup
- 1/3 cup Pureed Pumpkin
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350ºF (177ºC) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the oats, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, ground flax seed, sea salt, pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon together in a large bowl. Stir well to mix.
- In a pot, combine the coconut oil, maple syrup and pureed pumpkin. Place over medium-low heat and whisk until all ingredients are well distributed and it is warmed through (about 2 to 5 minutes). Pour it over the dry ingredients and mix with a spatula. Spread across the baking sheet and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown. Rotate the pan at the halfway point. (Note: Don't stir as this will break up the clusters.)
- Remove the granola from the oven and let cool completely. It may seem wet, but it will crisp up as it cools.
- Divide into bowls or store sealed in a jar until ready to use. Enjoy
Notes
- Leftovers – Stores well in an airtight container for up to a week. Freezes well for longer.
- No Walnuts – Use pecans or slivered almonds instead.
- Nut-Free – Skip the nuts and add extra pumpkin seeds.
- Serve it With – Oatmeal, yogurt, almond milk, and/or chopped apples with cinnamon.
- Optional Add-Ins – Raisins, dried cranberries, berries, or coconut flakes.
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