Savory Evergreen Snack Mix

Discovering this Savory Evergreen Mix was like stumbling upon a hidden treasure of flavors during a chilly autumn afternoon. The blend of roasted nuts, seeds, and crispy greens awakened my kitchen with fresh herb aromas and a satisfying crunch that instantly became a staple for snacks and gatherings.

I remember the first time unexpected guests arrived and I tossed together this mix on a whim. Watching them reach for handful after handful made me realize this wasn’t just a snack, it was a memory in the making.

Ingredients

• Raw cashews and almonds: I always reach for raw nuts to control the roast level and avoid any bitterness that pre-roasted nuts might bring.
• Pumpkin and sunflower seeds: These add a lovely texture contrast and a subtle earthy flavor to balance the herbs.
• Kale leaves: Removing stems and tearing into bite-sized pieces ensures even crispiness without any tough bits.
• Fresh parsley, dill, rosemary: Using fresh herbs brightens the whole mix, so I never skip these for that burst of garden freshness.
• Olive oil and spices: The olive oil helps everything roast perfectly while the sea salt, paprika, and garlic powder round out the taste with bold but balanced flavor.

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This sets the stage for a perfect roast without sticking or burning.

Mix It Up:

In a big bowl, combine the cashews, almonds, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds. Feel the weight of the nuts in your hands and anticipate the flavors melding.

Coat the Greens:

Add torn kale leaves along with olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Toss gently so every leaf and nut is evenly coated—you want that aroma filling your kitchen.

Spread the Love:

Lay the mixture evenly on your tray, giving everything space to crisp up nicely without overcrowding.

Roast to Perfection:

Pop it in the oven for 15 to 18 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even roasting. Listen for the faint crackle and watch for golden nuts and crisp kale—pure magic unfolding.

Cool and Refresh:

Once roasted, remove from oven and let the mix cool for 5 minutes; it’s tempting to dive in, but the final step is key.

Herbaceous Finish:

Toss the cooled mixture with freshly chopped parsley, dill, and rosemary, releasing a fresh herb perfume that ties it all together before serving or storing.

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This blend isn’t just a snack; it became a symbol of cozy get-togethers and effortless entertaining—a crunchy hug in a bowl that brings people together.

Keeping It Fresh

Storing this mix properly in an airtight container keeps the crispness alive for up to a week. I recommend making it in small batches to enjoy the freshest flavor and crunch.

When You're Missing Something

If fresh herbs aren’t on hand, a pinch of dried rosemary or dill can fill in, though it won’t have quite the same brightness. Swapping kale for baby spinach offers a softer alternative for those who prefer mild greens.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

This mix goes beyond snacking—sprinkle it over salads for crunch, pair with creamy cheeses, or add on top of soups for texture and flavor.

• Don’t forget to keep a little extra on hand for last minute garnishes your guests will adore
• If you’re gifting any, tuck it into a pretty jar with a handwritten note
• And always, always taste before salt to avoid over-seasoning

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Thanks for spending a moment in the kitchen with me—here’s to many crunchy, herbaceous happy snacking adventures ahead!