Whole grain recipes help provide the carbohydrates your body needs. — David Prince/Getty Images

Whole grains can pack a nutritional punch when featured as part of a balanced, plant-heavy diet. They have been linked to a reduction in the risk of diabetes, heart disease and strokes, and are a wise choice when trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. If you're looking for ways to incorporate or add even more whole grains into your diet, take a look at the recipes below. As you'll notice, these are extremely adaptable ingredients that can be used in sweets, snacks and entrees. With so many ways to use them in cooking, you'll find one more reason to love whole grains. 

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Peanut Butter Crispy Rice Treats by Ellie Krieger

These rice crispy treats are much healthier than the store-bought version, but just as delicious. Natural sweeteners are used in this recipe, as well as brown rice cereal, making it a great snack choice. They are simple to make, too, and use ingredients that you may have in your pantry already.

Per serving: 200 calories, 7g fat, 4g protein, 2g fiber

Easy Homemade Granola by Matt Lewis and Renato Poliafito

Bring it back to wholesome, natural basics with this sweet granola. Ingredients such as cinnamon, honey and vanilla garnish almonds, hazelnuts, raisins and cherries for a satisfying snack. This granola only needs to be baked for 15 minutes, making it easy to prep whenever needed. Keep a bag in your desk at work to avoid less healthy afternoon snacking!

Per serving: 184 calories, 7g fat, 26g carbohydrates, 4g protein, 3g fiber

Tagine of Squash and Chickpeas With Mushrooms by Judith Finlayson

Need a reason to use your slow cooker? Try out this Mediterranean dish. Free of dairy and meat, this dish uses hearty vegetables to make for a filling meal. While this recipe does not include whole grains, it's a perfect companion to them, and can be served with whole grain couscous, barley or quinoa.

Per serving: 199 calories, 3g fat, 39g carbohydrates, 7g protein, 7g fiber

Seven Grain Bread by Victoria Blashford-Snell & Brigette Hafner

Nothing is quite as comforting as the aroma of freshly baked bread. This bread is as filling and hearty as it is high in protein and fiber. Serve it as a side with your next dinner, or use it to give your sandwiches an extra healthful kick.

Per serving: 258 calories, 4g fat, 49g carbohydrates, 9g protein, 5g fiber

Next: 6 more whole grain recipes round out the list. »