| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 215 | 15g | 2g | 15g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 7g | 4g | 8g | 0.82g |
When I first stumbled upon the idea of creating the Crunchy Dulse Snack Mix, I was immediately excited by the concept. As someone who draws culinary inspiration from both Southern comfort food and the robust, vibrant flavors of West Africa, this recipe felt like the perfect fusion of my culinary heritage. The mix of dried dulse, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits provides a balance of saltiness, sweetness, and a hint of spiciness from the cayenne pepper, making it a snack that’s both flavorful and nourishing.
A Delightful Crunch
The texture of this snack mix is one of its most compelling features. Dried dulse, a type of seaweed, gives it that crunchy, savory edge that sets it apart from other snack mixes. Combined with the satisfying crunch of almonds, cashews, and pumpkin seeds, every bite offers a medley of textures that makes you want to reach for more. The addition of a touch of olive oil and maple syrup helps to bring everything together, ensuring that each element is evenly coated and delicious.
Nutritional Benefits
But this isn’t just about taste; the Crunchy Dulse Snack Mix is also packed with nutritional benefits. Dulse is rich in essential minerals like iodine, potassium, and iron. These nutrients support thyroid function, help balance electrolytes, and improve your overall energy levels. Nuts like almonds and cashews provide healthy fats, protein, and a range of vitamins, making them excellent for heart health and brain function. Pumpkin seeds add zinc and magnesium to the mix, which are crucial for immune support and muscle function.
Not to forget, the dried cranberries and apricots introduce a delightful tartness that complements the other ingredients perfectly while packing a punch of antioxidants and fiber. This combination makes the snack mix not just a tasty choice but a health-conscious one too.
For more information on the benefits of iodine in your diet, check out these iodine benefits. And if you’re curious about the advantages of incorporating more nuts into your diet, this article on nut health benefits is a great resource.
Versatility in Pairing
This snack mix can stand on its own as a satisfying snack, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Sprinkle it over a fresh salad for an extra crunch or serve it alongside a cheese platter for a sophisticated appetizer. It’s similar to other trail mixes but stands out due to the inclusion of dulse and its unique combination of flavors.
Incorporate the Crunchy Dulse Snack Mix into your daily routine for a snack that’s not just a treat for your taste buds, but also a boost for your health. Enjoy every bite knowing it’s rooted in tradition and crafted with care.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups dried dulse
- 1/2 cup almonds
- 1/2 cup cashews
- 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1/4 cup dried pineapple, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step Two
In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried dulse, almonds, cashews, and pumpkin seeds.
Step Three
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, sea salt, and cayenne pepper.
Step Four
Pour the olive oil mixture over the dry ingredients in the large bowl. Toss well to evenly coat all the ingredients.
Step Five
Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway through, until everything is lightly toasted and aromatic.
Step Six
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the mix cool completely. Once cooled, add the dried cranberries, chopped dried apricots, and diced dried pineapple. Stir to combine.
Step Seven
Transfer the Crunchy Dulse Snack Mix to an airtight container for storage. Enjoy as a nutritious and tasty snack!
