Are you craving a delicious and satisfying snack that's easy to make and endlessly customizable? Look no further! This salty snack mix recipe is the perfect solution for satisfying those crunchy cravings. Whether you're looking for a quick snack for yourself, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a fun activity for the whole family, this recipe is incredibly versatile and always a hit. It's the ultimate easy recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pretzels (any kind you like!)
- 1 cup cheese crackers (Cheddar or similar)
- 1/2 cup mixed nuts (salted peanuts, cashews, almonds – get creative!)
- 1/4 cup sesame sticks
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick!)
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This is a crucial step for even cooking and prevents sticking.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the pretzels, cheese crackers, nuts, sesame sticks, and sunflower seeds. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
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Season with Flavor: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt.
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Coat the Mix: Pour the seasoned oil mixture over the snack mix and toss gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated. Make sure everything is well combined – you want that flavour in every bite!
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Bake to Perfection: Spread the snack mix in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until lightly golden and crispy. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
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Cool & Enjoy: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the snack mix cool completely on the baking sheet. This allows the mixture to crisp up further. Once cool, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Tips for the Best Salty Snack Mix:
- Customize your crunch: Feel free to add or substitute any of your favorite salty snacks, such as popcorn, potato chips, or even roasted chickpeas for a healthier twist.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or add other spices like chili powder or cumin to tailor the heat level to your liking.
- Nut allergies? Easily omit the nuts and replace them with extra pretzels, seeds, or other crunchy alternatives. Always check labels carefully!
- Make it ahead: This snack mix is perfect for making ahead of time. It's a great make-ahead snack or party appetizer.
Variations:
- Sweet & Salty: Add a sprinkle of brown sugar or a drizzle of honey after baking for a delicious sweet and salty combination.
- Spicy Fiesta: Add a pinch of cumin, chili powder, and a dash of lime juice for a Mexican-inspired twist.
- Ranch Remix: Toss the baked snack mix with a packet of ranch seasoning for an extra flavorful kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving – approximate, varies based on ingredients):
This will vary greatly depending on the specific ingredients you use. For a general idea, a serving size of roughly 1/4 cup might contain:
- Calories: 150-200
- Fat: 8-12g
- Protein: 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This salty snack mix recipe is a simple yet delicious and customizable treat that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!