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Crispy Olive Oil & Walnut Granola with Orange Zest

This Mediterranean-inspired granola features hearty rolled oats and walnuts, lightly sweetened with maple and bound with heart-healthy extra virgin olive oil. Baked into wonderfully crunchy clusters with a hint of orange and spice, it's a perfect topping for yogurt or to enjoy by the handful.
Course Breakfast
Cuisine Mediterranean
Keyword mediterranean granola recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 33 minutes
Total Time 38 minutes
Servings 5
Calories 267kcal

Ingredients

Dry Foundation

  • 1 1/3 cups whole rolled oats
  • 1/3 cup raw walnuts roughly chopped
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
  • 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • A pinch of ground cardamom
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

Wet Binding Mixture

  • 1.5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon creamy almond butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon finely grated orange zest

Instructions

  • Prepare Oven and Dry Mix: Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment. In a medium bowl, combine oats, walnuts, coconut flakes, flaxseed, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt; stir well.
  • Combine Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, maple syrup, almond butter, and orange zest until smooth and emulsified.
  • Combine and Form: Pour the wet mixture over the dry and fold until fully coated. Transfer to the prepared sheet and press firmly into a compact, even layer about ¼ inch (0.5–1 cm) thick.
  • Bake in Two Stages: Bake 15 minutes. Remove and gently break into a few large pieces. Return to the oven and bake 15–20 minutes more, until fragrant, light golden-brown, and dry to the touch with crisp edges.
  • Cool for Crunch: Cool completely on the sheet 25–30 minutes without touching. Break into desired cluster size and store airtight.

Notes

Nutrition Information

Per serving
  • Calories: 267 kcal
  • Total Fat: 17 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4.6 g
  • Sodium: 120 mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Dietary Fiber: 5 g
  • Total Sugars: 7 g
  • Protein: 6 g
Disclaimer: Values are estimates based on standard USDA data; actuals vary by brands and methods.