Delicious Paleo-Friendly Snack Mixes You Can Make at Home
Are you on the paleo diet and constantly searching for snack options that fit the bill? The paleo diet focuses on eating foods that our hunter-gatherer ancestors would have eaten: think meats, nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables — basically, foods that can be hunted or gathered. What it cuts out are grains, legumes, dairy, and processed foods. This can make snacking a bit of a challenge, especially when you’re craving something crunchy and satisfying.
But here’s the good news: with a little creativity, you can whip up some delicious paleo-friendly snack mixes that won’t make you feel like you’re missing out on anything. Here, we’ll dive into how to make some lip-smacking mixes that are not only easy to prepare but will keep you energized and satisfied between meals.
1. The Classic Nut and Seed Mix
The simplest place to start is with a basic nut and seed mix. This is as easy as throwing together a variety of nuts and seeds, then seasoning them to taste. Here’s how you can do it:
- Ingredients: Almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds (pepitas), and sunflower seeds. Feel free to add or substitute with your favorites.
- Seasoning: A pinch of sea salt, a sprinkle of garlic powder, and a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat. If you prefer something sweet, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup with a sprinkle of cinnamon works great.
- Method: Mix your nuts and seeds in a bowl, add in your chosen seasonings, and give it a good toss to coat everything evenly. Spread the mix out on a baking sheet and bake at 325°F for about 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even toasting.
2. Coconutty Fruit Mix
For those who lean towards the sweeter side, a coconutty fruit mix could be your go-to. It combines the natural sweetness of dried fruits with the rich, satisfying crunch of coconut chips.
- Ingredients: Unsweetened coconut chips, dried unsweetened mango, dried unsweetened pineapple, and perhaps a handful of unsweetened dried cherries or berries.
- Method: This one doesn’t require any baking. Simply mix all your ingredients in a bowl, and you’re good to go. Just be sure to check that your dried fruits are unsweetened and do not contain any added sulfites or preservatives, to keep it truly paleo.
3. Spicy Savory Veggie Chips Mix
Vegetable chips can be an excellent base for a paleo-friendly snack mix. You can use kale, sweet potatoes, beets, or zucchini. Add some nuts and seasonings, and you’ve got a crunchy, savory snack mix. Here’s a quick guide:
- Ingredients: Your choice of thinly sliced vegetables, almonds, and pecans.
- Seasoning: Olive oil, sea salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Method: Toss your thinly sliced vegetables and nuts with olive oil and your seasonings. Spread them out on a baking sheet and bake at a low temperature (around 250°F) for 1-2 hours, or until they’re crispy. The low and slow baking helps remove moisture without burning them.
4. Chocolatey Delight Mix
Who said paleo can’t include a bit of indulgence? A chocolatey snack mix can be a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth in a healthier way.
- Ingredients: Cocoa nibs, unsalted almonds, unsweetened coconut flakes, and a sprinkle of sea salt. For an added burst of sweetness, throw in a small amount of dried blueberries or cherries.
- Method: Simply mix all these ingredients together. There’s no need to bake this mix — the cocoa nibs provide a satisfying crunch without any extra work.
Tips for Making Paleo Snack Mixes
- Quality Matters: Since the paleo diet emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods, opt for the highest quality, freshest ingredients you can find.
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to try different seasoning combinations. You can make several batches with varying flavors to keep your snack time exciting.
- Storage: Store your snack mixes in airtight containers. They should last for a few weeks, making them perfect for grab-and-go situations.
With these ideas, snacking on the paleo diet doesn’t have to be a boring endeavor. By mixing and matching ingredients and flavors, you can enjoy a variety of tasty treats that fit within your dietary needs. Happy snacking!
