April is the month of mud for Vermonters but, across the United States, it is National Pecan month. Indeed, 80 percent of the world supply of pecans comes from our country’s southern states. Pecans are a nutritious food loaded with vitamin E, protein, magnesium and fiber. Like all nuts, the fat content does bump up the calories so it is important to watch your portion sizes. Luckily, because pecans are a tree nut, most of their fat is the unsaturated, healthy variety.
Nutty Granola
3 cups old-fashioned oats
½ cup chopped raw, unsalted walnuts
½ cup chopped unsalted almonds
½ cup unsalted pecans
½ cup maple syrup
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp ground cinnamon
½ cup raisins (optional)
Preheat oven to 300? F. Spray large baking sheet with cooking spray or cover with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients. Spread the mixture onto baking sheet and bake until golden, stirring occasionally, about 30 minutes. Let cool completely. Store in refrigerator in airtight container.