Blue Diamond Oven Roasted Sea Salt and Dark Chocolate Almond Review with Granola Recipe

Did you know that: A handful of almonds (about 23 nuts or one ounce) contains high amounts of protein, fiber, monounsaturated fat, vitamin E, calcium and other important minerals, and phytochemicals that may help protect against many common diseases? Almonds are an excellent source of vitamin E, magnesium, and manganese; they are a good source fiber, copper, phosphorous and riboflavin. When compared ounce for ounce, almonds are the nut highest in protein (6g), fiber, calcium (75mg), vitamin E, riboflavin and niacin (1mg). All that good stuff in there, it is sure to be good for you! 

Incorporating almonds into your daily diet helps you in your nutritional needs, is a satisfying snack and also aids in weight management. I have been dieting for about 9 months now and I am always looking for a snack that will be good for me and not raise my blood sugar levels. I love both the Sea Salt and Dark Chocolate flavors of Blue Diamond Almonds. I not only love to snack on them but to bake with them also. I have included a recipe for Granola with Blue Diamond Almonds. You can use any flavor of Blue Diamond Almonds you would like but I love the Dark Chocolate. I do love chocolate. I think the addition of these in the granola just gives the it the little bit of added flavor and variety. I hope you enjoy this simple and delicious recipe!

I was provided with one container of Sea Salt Almonds and one container of Dark Chocolate Almonds for my review.

“This post is sponsored by Blue Diamond Almonds.” 

Granola with Blue Diamond Almonds

Ingredients:

• 1 cup almonds, divided, I used Blue Diamond Oven Roasted Dark        Chocolate Almonds
• 3 cups old fashioned oats
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup honey
• 3 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/8 teaspoon almond extract

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. In a food processor or blender, pulse half of the almonds until they are very finely chopped. Pour them into a large bowl. Then chop the other half of the almonds coarsely, and pour them into the same bowl.
3. Pour the oats, salt, and brown sugar into the bowl with the almonds and stir to combine.
4. In a small microwaveable bowl, combine honey and coconut oil, and heat for 40 seconds. Stir to dissolve the coconut oil, and add the vanilla and almond extract.
5. Pour the honey mixture over the oats, and stir so that they are evenly coated.
6. Pour the oats evenly onto a Silpat or parchment lined baking sheet (helpful if it has sides).
7. Bake the oats for 5 minutes, and then stir them around. Return to the oven for 5 more minutes.
8. Pour the granola and onto a piece of wax paper to cool. Spread it out into a thin layer.
9. After it cools completely, break the granola into clusters and store in an airtight container.

Nutrition Facts

Generic - Dark Chocolate, Almonds and Granola

1. Servings:  1/4 cup (30g) 1 cup (30g) 1 container (2 4/5 cup (30g) ea.)

Calories	140	Sodium	0 mg
Total Fat	7 g	Potassium	0 mg
Saturated	2 g	Total Carbs	19 g
Polyunsaturated	0 g	Dietary Fiber	2 g
Monounsaturated	0 g	Sugars	7 g
Trans	0 g	Protein	3 g
Cholesterol	0 mg
Vitamin A	0%	Calcium	0%
Vitamin C	2%	Iron	4%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.