Trail mix makes a quick and healthy snack, but many packaged varieties are loaded with excess sugar and sodium. This version uses unsalted nuts, unsweetened dried fruit, whole grain cereal, and a few dark chocolate chips for a satisfying snack that is easy to pack for busy afternoons or weekend hikes.

Yield: 14 servings

Preparation time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

• 3 cups puffed whole grain cereal (such as puffed kamut)
• ¼ cup raw cashew pieces
• ¼ cup unsweetened coconut flakes
• ¼ cup dark chocolate chips
• ¼ cup halved and sliced dried figs (about 6 figs)
• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon

Directions

1. Add the cereal, cashews, coconut, chocolate chips, and figs to a medium bowl. Stir to mix all ingredients.
2. Sprinkle the cinnamon over the trail mix and toss to coat all ingredients. Store in an airtight container for up to three days.

Lori Rice, M.S., is a nutritional scientist and author with a passion for healthy cooking, exercise physiology, and food photography.