Basic Granola

I like this granola because it can be as simple or etravagant as you want it to be.  Most often, I don't have nuts, dried fruit, m&m's, flax seed, and all that fun stuff on hand to throw in.  But that's ok, it doesn't stop me from making granola.  And if I do have something to add, well then I can do that too. This is also a good cold cereal alternative.

Basic Granola

3 c. old-fashioned rolled oats

3 Tbs. brown sugar

1/4 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. cinnamon

1/3 c. honey

1/4 c. canola oil

1 tsp. vanilla

1.  Heat oven to 300 degrees. In a large bowl, stir together oats, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon.

2.  In another bowl, stir together honey, canola oil and vanilla.  Dump this over the oat mixture and combine everything thouroughly.  Get your hands in it to mix everything well, and to coat the oats evenly with the honey mixture.  

3.Spread the mixture in a thin, even layer on a baking sheet and place on the center rack of the oven.  Bake, stirring after 15 minute, until the granola is a very light golden brown.  It will take 20-30 minutes depending on your desired "toastiness".  

4.  Cool the granola completely, stirring it around so it doesn't stick together.  (It hardens as it cools.)

5.  Mix in nuts, fruits, or whatever is desired (or nothing at all).