Trail mix lovers, this one's for you! Even if you’re not a huge fan of trail mix, the good thing about this popular snack is that you can add your own spin and customize it to your liking. Whether you need a pick me up while hiking or just need an afternoon snack in between meals, trail mix can be a convenient nutrient dense snack.
Store bought trail mix is often packed with sugar and fat, which is why homemade trail mix is not only a healthier option, but it’s also super easy and the varieties of ingredients are endless. Here’s what you can include in your healthy trail mix.
Nuts
Nuts are a good source of fat, fiber, and protein. While nuts are a little higher in fat they are low in carbs and a great source of nutrients like vitamin E, magnesium, and selenium. Some options include: almonds, cashews, walnuts, pecans, macadamia nuts, pistachios, or hazelnuts.
Dried fruit
Dried fruit is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Some dried fruits such as figs and plums are also good sources of antioxidants. Popular dried fruits in trail mix include raisins, cranberries, apricots, apples, mangos and banana chips.
Seeds
Seeds are a great source of fiber and healthy fats. They are also packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Seeds can also help to reduce cholesterol and high blood sugar. Pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds are great options to add into trail mix.
Fun add-ins
Healthy eating is all about balance. The good thing about trail mix is that there is always room for some fun add-ins. Dark chocolate, popcorn, pretzels, dried yogurt pieces, white chocolate chips, and coconut flakes are some ingredients that you can add to liven up your mix.
Seasonings
While you may be used to a sweet and salty trail mix, savory is another way to go. A sprinkle of cajun seasoning, curry, cayenne pepper, and chili powder can deepen the flavor of trail mix and take it to another level. Coat your trail mix in your savory spice of choice and bake it for 10-12 minutes.
Below are some sweet and savory trail mix recipes you can try at home.
Tropical Trail Mix
1 cup cashews
½ cup almonds
½ cup unsweetened coconut chips
2 cups chopped dried mangos
½ cup banana chips
Mix all ingredients together in an airtight container.
Savory Spicy Trail Mix
½ cup almonds
½ sunflower seeds
½ cup almonds
½ cup peanuts
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp onion powder
⅛ tsp cayenne pepper
In a large bowl combine all ingredients and coat with spices. Bake on 300 for 5-10 minutes until toasted. Enjoy and store in an airtight container for up to a week.
These trail mix recipes are quick and easy but if you are short on time and need to purchase pre-made trail mix, read the ingredient lists to make sure they contain quality ingredients.