For those of us who are trying to eat less sugar and reduce the amount of salt in our diet, finding the right snack food can be a bit daunting. I mean really, who doesn’t get a bit of a craving for Cheetos, Fritos, Cheez-its, etc. periodically. Or yearn for a couple of homemade cookies while reading a great book late at night. We are after all, only human. And humans crave sugar and salt.

So, I decided to come up with a snack that was not only satisfying and delicious, but also contained no added sugar (besides what’s already built into the cereals), and less salt than in my favorite snacks. (Cheetos, etc.)

Of course, along with the wonderful savory flavor in this party mix and ease of preparation comes the temptation to nibble on it every chance you get. So, you need to know that it’s quite easy to justify eating just another tiny little bowl while you go about your business. So, do not be fooled. Less sugar and salt for sure. With its fabulous savory flavor plus delicious crunch, this snack might very easily turn into an addiction. Because, basically, there is a high quotient of self-indulgence that is inherent with this party mix. It is just that good.

I used my Not Your Mama’s Chex Party Mix recipe for the base of this recipe. I didn’t change that much, but enough to lighten the mix up a bit. But both recipes are wonderful.

So, if you too want a snack that is better for you than some that are on the market, may I suggest you give this recipe a try.

And as always, peace and love to all.

4 c. Corn Chex® cereal

4 c. Rice Chex® cereal

4 c. Wheat Chex® cereal

10 T. (1¼ sticks) unsalted butter

3 T. Worcestershire sauce

½ tsp. hot sauce (recommend Frank’s RedHot)

1½ tsp. granulated garlic

½ tsp. granulated onion  

1½ tsp. seasoned salt

1½ c. mixed nuts

1½ c. peanuts

In a very large bowl, combine the Chex (any combination of corn, rice, and wheat* is perfect). Melt the butter in a saucepan; stir in the Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, granulated garlic, granulated onion, and seasoned salt

Gently stir the buttery mixture into the cereal mix until the dry mix is evenly coated. Stir in the nuts.

Spread on large baking sheets and bake for 1 hour in a pre-heated 250-degree oven, turning every 15 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

*To make gluten free party mix, don’t use the Wheat Chex. Substitute with additional Rice Chex, Corn Chex, or nuts.