Name: Easy Trail Mix Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ⅓ cup dried mango; ⅓ cup dried cherries; ⅓ cup dried blueberries; ½ cup almonds; ½ cup pistachios; ½ cup raisins

This easy trail mix recipe is perfect for a quick snack or an on-the-go energy boost. It's packed with a variety of dried fruits and nuts that deliver a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors.

Photos of Easy Trail Mix Recipe

While most of the ingredients in this trail mix are commonly found, dried mango, cherries, and blueberries might be less familiar to some. These can typically be found in the dried fruit aisle or the health food section of your local supermarket.

Ingredients for Easy Trail Mix Recipe

dried mango: A naturally sweet dried fruit that adds a tropical twist to the mix.

dried cherries: These provide a tart and chewy contrast that enhances the flavor profile.

dried blueberries: Tiny, sweet, and slightly tangy, these berries add a burst of flavor and color.

almonds: A crunchy and nutritious nut that adds texture and protein.

pistachios: These green gems are rich in flavor and add a unique taste.

raisins: Classic dried fruit that brings sweetness and chewiness to the mix.

One reader, Cilka Sorensen says:

This easy trail mix recipe is fantastic! The mix of dried fruits and nuts is perfect for a quick, healthy snack. I love the balance of sweet and crunchy. It's now my go-to for hiking trips and busy days.

Cilka Sorensen

How To Make Easy Trail Mix

This trail mix recipe is loaded with healthy dried fruits and nuts for a more tasteful snack! Try cooking up a crunchy serving in just 10 minutes.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

⅓cupdried mango,or apples, or any dried fruit, diced
⅓cupdried cherries,or cranberries
⅓cupdried blueberries
½cupalmonds,unsalted
½cuppistachios,unsalted
½cupraisins,chocolate covered

Instructions

Combine the mango, cherries, blueberries, almonds, pistachios, raisings in an airtight container.
Serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 3390.14kcal
Fat: 164.70g
Saturated Fat: 16.03g
Trans Fat: 0.03g
Monounsaturated Fat: 94.08g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 45.33g
Carbohydrates: 458.86g
Fiber: 60.42g
Sugar: 325.15g
Protein: 80.66g
Sodium: 45.97mg
Calcium: 824.02mg
Potassium: 5261.40mg
Iron: 18.39mg
Vitamin A: 303.87µg
Vitamin C: 120.30mg

Expert Advice for Achieving the Ideal Trail Mix Texture

To enhance the flavor and texture of your trail mix, lightly toast the almonds and pistachios in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until they are golden brown and fragrant. Let them cool completely before mixing with the other ingredients.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Trail Mix

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all dried mango, dried cherries, dried blueberries, almonds, pistachios, and raisins in advance to save time.

Use pre-packaged nuts: Buy pre-packaged almonds and pistachios to avoid the hassle of measuring and shelling.

Mix in bulk: Prepare a large batch of trail mix and store it in multiple airtight containers for quick access.

Store smartly: Keep your trail mix in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness and extend shelf life.

Customize later: Add any additional ingredients like chocolate chips or seeds when you’re ready to serve, to keep the mix versatile.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Trail Mix Recipe

dried mango - Substitute with dried pineapple: Both have a sweet and tangy flavor, making them interchangeable in trail mix.
dried mango - Substitute with dried apricots: They offer a similar chewy texture and sweetness.
dried cherries - Substitute with dried cranberries: Both provide a tart flavor and chewy texture.
dried cherries - Substitute with dried strawberries: They have a similar sweetness and can add a different berry flavor.
dried blueberries - Substitute with dried blackberries: Both have a similar texture and a slightly tart flavor.
dried blueberries - Substitute with dried currants: They are small and chewy, offering a similar texture and flavor profile.
almonds - Substitute with cashews: Both nuts are crunchy and have a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
almonds - Substitute with walnuts: They provide a similar crunch and are rich in healthy fats.
pistachios - Substitute with pumpkin seeds: Both are crunchy and provide a nutty flavor, with pumpkin seeds being a good nut-free option.
pistachios - Substitute with sunflower seeds: They offer a similar crunch and are also a nut-free alternative.
raisins - Substitute with sultanas: Both are dried grapes and have a similar sweet and chewy texture.
raisins - Substitute with dried dates: They are sweet and chewy, making them a good alternative to raisins.

Creative Ways to Serve Trail Mix

Use elegant glass jars: Present the trail mix in small, clear glass jars with airtight lids. This not only keeps the mix fresh but also showcases the vibrant colors of the dried mango, dried cherries, and dried blueberries.
Layer the ingredients: Instead of mixing everything together, layer the dried fruits and nuts in the jar. Start with a layer of almonds, followed by raisins, then pistachios, and so on. This creates a visually appealing pattern.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme on top of the jar for a touch of elegance and a hint of aroma that complements the nuts and dried fruits.
Serve with a tasting spoon: Provide a small, elegant tasting spoon with each jar. This adds a touch of sophistication and allows guests to enjoy the trail mix in a refined manner.
Accompany with a beverage pairing: Suggest a pairing with a light, refreshing drink such as sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a glass of white wine. This elevates the snack to a gourmet experience.
Use a wooden serving board: Place the jars on a rustic wooden serving board. The natural texture of the wood complements the earthy tones of the nuts and dried fruits, creating a harmonious presentation.
Add a handwritten label: Attach a small, handwritten label to each jar with the name of the trail mix and a list of ingredients. This personal touch adds charm and sophistication to the presentation.

Essential Equipment for Making Homemade Trail Mix

Airtight container: Use this to store the trail mix and keep it fresh.
Measuring cups: These will help you measure out the correct amounts of each ingredient.
Mixing bowl: Combine all the ingredients in this before transferring to the airtight container.
Mixing spoon: Use this to mix the ingredients evenly in the bowl.

Proper Storage and Freezing Methods for Trail Mix

Store the trail mix in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag to maintain freshness and prevent moisture from seeping in.
Keep the container in a cool, dry place, such as your pantry or cupboard, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
If stored properly, homemade trail mix can last for up to 2-3 weeks at room temperature.
For longer storage, you can refrigerate the trail mix in an airtight container for up to 1-2 months.
To freeze trail mix:
- Place the mix in a freezer-safe, airtight container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container with the date and contents for easy reference.
- Trail mix can be frozen for up to 3-4 months without significant loss of quality.
- To thaw, simply remove the desired amount from the freezer and let it come to room temperature before consuming.
Note that the texture of some ingredients, such as dried fruit or softer nuts, may change slightly after freezing and thawing, but the overall taste should remain delicious.

Interesting Trivia About the Origins of Trail Mix

A fun fact about this trail mix recipe is that pistachios are one of the oldest flowering nut trees, with evidence suggesting they were consumed as early as 7,000 B.C.

Budget-Friendly: Making Trail Mix at Home

This trail mix recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients like dried mango, dried cherries, dried blueberries, almonds, pistachios, and raisins are nutrient-dense and provide a good balance of fruits and nuts. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, depending on the quality and brand of the ingredients. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is Trail Mix a Healthy Snack Option?

This trail mix recipe is a healthy snack option, packed with nutrient-dense ingredients. The dried fruits provide a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while the nuts offer healthy fats, protein, and additional fiber. The combination of these ingredients creates a well-balanced snack that can help curb hunger and provide sustained energy throughout the day.

However, it's important to note that dried fruits and nuts are calorie-dense, so portion control is key to maintaining a healthy diet. Additionally, some dried fruits may contain added sugars, which can increase the calorie content and potentially negate some of the health benefits.

To further enhance the nutritional value of this trail mix, consider the following suggestions:

Include a variety of nuts, such as walnuts or cashews, to provide a wider range of nutrients and healthy fats
Add seeds, like pumpkin or sunflower seeds, for an extra boost of protein, fiber, and minerals
Incorporate unsweetened coconut flakes for a unique flavor and texture, as well as additional healthy fats
Opt for unsweetened or minimally processed dried fruits to reduce added sugar intake
Consider adding a small amount of dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa or higher) for a touch of sweetness and potential antioxidant benefits

By making these adjustments and being mindful of portion sizes, this trail mix recipe can be a nutritious and satisfying snack that supports overall health and well-being.

Editor's Opinion: Why This Trail Mix Recipe Stands Out

This trail mix recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and nutty flavors, perfect for a quick and nutritious snack. The combination of dried mango, cherries, and blueberries provides a burst of natural sweetness and antioxidants, while the almonds and pistachios add a satisfying crunch and healthy fats. The raisins tie everything together with their chewy texture. It's simple to prepare and store, making it an excellent option for on-the-go snacking. Overall, it's a well-balanced mix that caters to both taste and health.

Enhance Your Easy Trail Mix Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Imagine the smoky aroma of bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes perfectly charred and seasoned. These colorful skewers will add a burst of flavor and a delightful crunch to your trail mix experience.

Spicy Chicken Wings: Spicy Chicken Wings: Juicy chicken wings marinated in a fiery blend of spices, then grilled to perfection. The heat and zest of these wings will complement the sweet and nutty notes of your trail mix.

Fresh Fruit Salad: Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant medley of watermelon, pineapple, and kiwi, drizzled with a hint of lime juice. This refreshing side dish will balance the dried fruits in your trail mix with a burst of juicy freshness.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: A warm, velvety tomato soup infused with fragrant basil. The rich and comforting flavors of this soup will provide a savory contrast to the sweet and crunchy elements of your trail mix.

Mini Cheesecake Bites: Mini Cheesecake Bites: Decadent cheesecake squares with a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with a dollop of whipped cream. These bite-sized desserts will add a touch of indulgence to your snack time.

Delicious Variations on the Classic Trail Mix

Nutty Granola Bars: Nutty Granola Bars are the perfect blend of oats, honey, and a variety of nuts. These bars are chewy, crunchy, and packed with energy, making them an ideal snack for any time of the day. Add a touch of dark chocolate or dried cranberries for an extra burst of flavor.

Fruit and Nut Energy Balls: Fruit and Nut Energy Balls combine the natural sweetness of dates and figs with the crunch of walnuts and pecans. These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick pick-me-up. Roll them in coconut flakes or chia seeds for added texture and nutrition.

Savory Spiced Nuts: Savory Spiced Nuts are a delightful mix of cashews, pecans, and almonds roasted with a blend of spices like cumin, paprika, and rosemary. These nuts are perfect for a savory snack or as a topping for salads and soups.

Tropical Fruit Salad: Tropical Fruit Salad is a refreshing mix of pineapple, mango, kiwi, and papaya. Tossed with a hint of lime juice and mint, this salad is a burst of tropical flavors that can be enjoyed as a dessert or a light breakfast.

Why trust this Easy Trail Mix Recipe:

This easy trail mix recipe is a perfect blend of dried fruits and nuts, offering a balance of sweetness and crunch. The combination of dried mango, cherries, and blueberries provides a burst of flavor and natural energy. Almonds and pistachios add a satisfying crunch and are packed with protein and healthy fats. This mix is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a great snack for any time of the day.

Share your thoughts on this easy trail mix recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any favorite variations or tips to make it even better!

FAQ:

How long will this trail mix stay fresh?

If you store it in an airtight container, it should stay fresh for about 1-2 weeks. Just make sure to keep it in a cool, dry place.

Can I substitute any of the nuts or dried fruits?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out any of the ingredients for your favorites. For example, you can use cashews instead of almonds or dried cranberries instead of cherries.

Is this trail mix recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check the packaging to ensure there’s no cross-contamination if you have a severe gluten allergy.

Can I add chocolate or other sweets to this mix?

Sure thing! Adding some dark chocolate chips or M&Ms can make it even more delicious. Just keep in mind that it might not be as healthy.

How many servings does this recipe make?

This recipe makes about 2 cups of trail mix, which is roughly 4-6 servings, depending on how much you like to snack!