This simple trail mix recipe is a great way to curb your hunger until the real food comes.

Are you always hungry before meal time? Are you always trying to sneak a roll, biscuit or a little snack before dinner? Are your kids tugging at your shirt sleeves after you get home from school or work?

If so, I have a snack pack for you! This simple little treat in a jar or bag can keep everyone smiling. Trail mix is an ideal snack food on the trail, before meal time or for afternoon or evening snacks. It is lightweight and easy to store, very energy rich, providing quick energy from the carbohydrates in the dried fruit and/or granola, as well as sustained energy from the mostly mono- and polyunsaturated fats in nuts.

Every now and again it is time to let loose and give yourself a break. This quick and easy recipe is great to have around and is very versatile. I have used it at dinner parties before chicken winds and bruschetta or for kids birthday parties or even sitting down watching the Jays game on TV. The combination of sweet and salty just makes you want more.

Ingredients

• Small Pretzels (1 Cup)
• “O”-Shaped Toasted Oat Cereal (1/2 Cup)
• Roasted Almonds (1/2 Cup)
• Candy Coated Chocolates (2 Tbsp)
• Raisins (2 Tbsp)
• Cashews (1/4 Cup)

Method

Put all 6 ingredients in a bowl. Using mixing spoons to toss until combined. Makes about 2 1/2 cups. Store any unused portion in an sir tight container or ziploc bag for later. Obviously without being to sharp in math if you want to make a large batch for a bigger crowd you can just multiply each ingredietn accordingly.

I really hope you enjoy it and if you have any other ideas for what you like to add to your trail mix - I would love to here from you.

Need a quick snack? Nibble on a nut! A handful a day can help keep you healthy!

Though nuts are a higher-fat food, it is mostly heart-healthy unsaturated fat. The fat, protein and fiber in nuts help you feel full longer, so you may eat less during the day. By helping induce a feeling of satiety, nuts may help people feel less deprived and not like they’re “dieting.” Just limit your portion.

How many nuts are in a handful? Check the chart below.

It’s easy to nibble on nuts. Store shelled or unshelled nuts in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 6 months or for a year in your freezer for best quality.

1. It’s in the Bag!

You don’t have to fire up the stove or get out your cookbook to enjoy nuts. Your handful of nuts may be enjoyed — simply — out of hand.

Divide a container of nuts into small snack bags for easy snacking at home, office or on the road. Keep in the refrigerator until you’re ready to enjoy! A snack of nuts may help you resist that gooey sweet roll in the breakroom at work.

2. Throw those nuts just about anywhere!

• Salads
• Yogurt
• Cereal
• Pasta
• Cooked vegetables
• Muffins and pancakes (toss a handful or two into your batter)