Are you tired of the same old sugary snacks? Craving something satisfying, savory, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This savory granola bar recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast, a healthy lunchbox addition, or a satisfying afternoon pick-me-up. Forget those overly sweet, processed bars – these homemade granola bars are packed with wholesome ingredients and customizable to your taste. They're a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas that translate perfectly into delicious snacks.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned or quick-cooking)
- ½ cup whole wheat flour
- ¼ cup sesame seeds
- ¼ cup sunflower seeds
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans work well)
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup water or unsweetened apple sauce
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8x8 inch baking pan.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, whole wheat flour, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, chopped nuts, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. This is a great opportunity to get the kids involved in the homemade cooking process!
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients: Add olive oil and water (or applesauce) to the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is evenly moistened. The mixture should be slightly sticky but not overly wet. If it seems too dry, add a tablespoon more of water at a time until it comes together.
Step 4: Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Use your hands or the back of a spoon to firmly press the mixture into an even layer. This ensures even baking and prevents crumbly bars.
Step 5: Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the granola bars are firm to the touch.
Step 6: Cool and Cut: Let the granola bars cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. This prevents them from crumbling. Once cooled, you can easily cut them into your desired size and shape.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Savory Granola Bars:
- Customize your nuts and seeds: Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts and seeds to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, or flax seeds are all great additions.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Add herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano can add a delicious savory dimension.
- Storage: Store your granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Delicious Variations:
- Cheesy Cheddar: Add ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese to the dry ingredients.
- Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
- Spicy Southwest: Add a teaspoon of chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per bar, approximate):
Calories: 150-200 Protein: 4-6g Fiber: 2-4g
These easy recipes for healthy meals are perfect for anyone looking for a delicious and nutritious snack or meal addition. Enjoy experimenting and creating your own unique savory granola bar combinations! They are also a great addition to any collection of best recipes.