Toasted Pumpkin Seed Granola and a bonus Holiday Gift Guide

Are you looking for a quick, healthy addition to your holiday baking list? I’ve got just the thing! I’m calling it Toasted Pumpkin Seed Granola —and it’s seriously addicting.

Not only that, it’s packed with health benefits. One-quarter cup of pumpkin seeds gives you about 9 grams of protein, 3 grams of fiber, a decent amount of iron, heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, and other important nutrients. The almonds are chock-full of omega-3s and also contain calcium, iron, zinc, and other key vitamins and minerals. The spices are packed with antioxidants, have anti-inflammatory properties, and more.

It’s super easy to make too. Click here for the recipe.

Truthfully, this yummy snack is kind of a cross between a granola and a trail mix. But either way, it’s great to eat by the handful, or you can sprinkle it on top of salads, oatmeal, yogurt, cereal, avocado toast, and more.

And there's more...

I’ve also got a few nutrition-related gift ideas for you this week too—in case you want to treat yourself—ahem, I mean someone special—this December! (I have no affiliation or links to any of these products. I just like them and am sharing ideas with you.)

These silicone Stasher bags are sturdy and dishwasher/microwave safe, plus you can use them in the microwave, oven, and boiling water—so you can even cook in them (although I haven't tried that yet). They seal easily and are a great way to reduce your need for plastic baggies. We use them in lunchboxes and for food storage. I’ve seen them in Bed, Bath, and Beyond, Amazon, and other shops with prices ranging from $7.99-19.99, depending on the size you choose. The colors are fun too! Here's their website to learn more.

I drink at least one cup of this almond-flavored green tea every morning, with a lemon wedge. Green tea is loaded with powerful polyphenols and regular consumption has been associated with protection against certain types of cancers, lower blood pressure, and a decreased risk of: cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, and even cognitive impairment. Plus, it’s been linked with more successful aging overall. What’s that, you ask? According to the study authors, this is measured by overall quality of life, well-being, physical health, and maintenance of cognitive function. Mmmm….cuppa, anyone?! This tea is available on Amazon or directly from Kusmi.

This is one of my go-to cookbooks, which happens to contain only vegetarian recipes. So, if you’re looking to eat more fruits and vegetables in 2020 (as nearly all of us should be), this is a great resource. I especially like the spinach and artichoke quiche (in a thyme flavored almond meal crust), the colorful kale, apple, and fennel slaw with tart cherries, and the roasted carrots with farro, chickpeas, and herbed tahini dressing--to name just a few of my favorite recipes. You can buy this at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and other book retailers.

These compartmentalized glass bento-box containers are a great tool if you want to prepare some ready-made, grab-and-go snacks or meals to stash in your fridge. I’ll do a whole post with some specific suggestions soon but for now aim to fill the compartments with fruits and vegetables and at least 2 of the 3 macronutrients: a lean protein, a whole grain, and/or a healthy fat. If you follow those guidelines, you’ve got yourself a healthful, well-balanced mini-meal ready to go on busy days. Click here to view them on Amazon


Be sure to let me know how you like the toasted pumpkin seed granola and any of the gift ideas you decide to try!