Granola

Source:  Nurse Amanda

This recipe was put in a newsletter for nurses at our hospital by one of my peers.  Several A few decades ago, my best friend made granola in her apartment and the smell was heavenly.  I have never forgotten it.  Exactly why is took several a few decades for me to start making my own is a mystery.  Steve is loving it and I can see this is just another thing we will make at home rather than buying in a store.

4 cups old-fashioned rolled oats

1 cup nuts of your choice (I like pecans)

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 cup coconut oil, melted

1/2 cup pure maple syrup

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

3/4 cup dried berries

Other options--coconut, mini chocolate chips, or white chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.  Line baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix oats, nuts, salt, and spices in a large bowl.

Add melted oil, syrup, and vanilla.  Mix everything together to coat evenly.

Bake spread evenly onto the baking sheet.  Bake until oats are lightly golden, 20-25 minutes.  Stir halfway through.

Cool for 30 minutes.  Add dried berries and/or chocolate chips.

Store in an airtight container for 1-2 weeks.

Enjoy with yogurt, ice cream, or just by itself.  

Green Apple Martini

Source:  Food Network Website

For my birthday a number of years ago, I bought these lovely martini glasses.  Actually, after I got a cash gift, I bought some earrings with it, so I guess to be honest, I bought myself these martini glasses for myself for my birthday. 

I had in my head for years (after watching this on Oprah), the idea to make apple martinis.  (She made these look so elegant.)  This is like apple pie in a glass.  The cinnamon and sugar rim is not to be skipped.  I have to warn you though, it tastes like apple pie, but I noticed a bit of a kick.  I enjoy my new martini glasses.  :) 

Cinnamon and sugar for rimming the glass
5 tablespoons vodka
5 tablespoons sour apple schnapps
5 tablespoons lemonade
5 tablespoons lemon-lime soda (I use 7-Up)

In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine vodka, schnapps, lemonade and lemon-lime soda. Cover and shake vigorously. Dip rim edge martini glasses in a shallow dish with 1/4-inch water, then in a shallow dish with 1/4-inch of equal parts sugar and cinnamon mixture. Strain shaken mixture into prepared glasses and serve. 

A toast to all mothers on Mother's Day!