Keeping that metabolic furnace running at top speed can sometimes be challenging. With a hectic work schedule, kids, and well… just life, making time to eat frequent snacks can either slip our minds or we may be inclined to grab something we may regret later.
One of my favorite things to snack on is homemade trail mix. Not only is it super easy to prepare, there are so many variations you can come up with. This easy snack is sure to satisfy both your taste buds and metabolism, keeping you a fat-burning machine!
Check out why I consider this is such a perfect (or close to it) snack!
What are the benefits of trail mix?
• Easy to make
• Doesn’t need be refrigerated
• Travels well
• Fits easily in my purse or even glove compartment of the car
• Lasts a long time and won’t go bad
• Contains healthy fats
• Satisfies appetite and cravings
• Long-lasting energy
• Keeps blood sugar steady
• Full of vitamins, minerals, and proteins
• Kid friendly. Kids love to create their own mixes and are more likely to eat something they created themselves!
• Plus, the variations are almost endless.
Before you get too excited I do have to warn you— here are some things to keep in mind about trail mix:
• High in fat— although it’s a healthy fat, too much can be counter-productive.
• Many store-bought brands contain high amounts of sugar and some even contain high fructose corn syrup!
• Try to stay away from the candy that is often tossed into some trail mixes.
To remedy these potential drawbacks, I choose to make my own trail mix, making sure I only use the best variety of healthy nuts and seeds. I also pre-pack about a one-forth cup serving into Zip lock bags or Tupperware to be sure I don’t overdo it, which is easy to do!
Get creative and make your own!
Gina’s Favorite Mix and Match Trail Mix Options:
• Peanuts
• Almonds, raw and/or roasted
• Walnuts
• Cashews
• Pecans
• Pistachios
• Brazil nuts
• Sunflower seeds
• Pumpkin seeds
• Popcorn
• Puffed rice cereal
• Toasted oats
Want to an even sweeter mix? Try…
• Goji berries
• Banana chips
• Dried or dehydrated cranberries
• Dried or dehydrated apples
• Dried or dehydrated apricots
• Unsweetened coconut flakes
• Carob chips
Here are some more ideas I love:
• For more variation to your raw nuts, I love to coat them in coconut or olive oil and season them with different herbs.
• Cinnamon and stevia makes for a sweeter nut.
• Basil, rosemary or dill makes for a delicious flavor.
• For added heat, chipotle or chili seasoning is tasty! Chipotle lime is my current favorite!
Get creative, have fun and you are sure to never regret having this satisfying delicious snack on hand!
