Grab-and-Go Snack Mix

Serves 10; 1/2 cup per serving

Pumpkin seeds and pie spices make this snack mix different from the norm. It’s full of crunchy goodness from nuts and grains.

Ingredients
Cooking spray
1 teaspoon canola or corn oil
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 cup chopped pecans
1/4 cup shelled unsalted pumpkin seeds
3/4 to 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice or apple pie spice
2 cups multigrain or whole-wheat cereal squares with maple syrup and brown sugar
1/2 cup sweetened dried cranberries or sweetened dried cherries

Directions
Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly spray with cooking spray.

In a large nonstick skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat, swirling to coat the bottom. Cook the honey for 2 minutes, or until it just comes to a boil. Stir in the walnuts, pecans, pumpkin seeds, and pie spice. Cook for 3 minutes, or until the mixture begins to turn golden, stirring constantly. Remove from the heat.

Immediately stir in the cereal and dried fruit until well coated, about 30 seconds. Pour onto the baking sheet, using the back of a spoon to quickly spread in a smooth, thin layer. Sprinkle with the salt. Let cool completely, about 45 minutes. Break into 1-inch pieces. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.

This recipe is brought to you by the American Heart Association’s Face the Fats campaign. Recipe copyright © 2009 by the American Heart Association. Look for other delicious recipes in American Heart Association cookbooks, available from booksellers everywhere, and at deliciousdecisions.org.