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2016 has been all about eating better. As I said earlier this year, I have a few goals that I have been trying to work into my daily routine. It’s okay to reward yourself sometimes and my perfect go-to treat is of course DOVE® Chocolate Fruit & Nut.

These delicious delights put a fun spin on my snacking habits and give a better indulgence option for a happier new year. DOVE® Chocolate Fruit & Nut combines the wellness benefits of dark chocolate with fruits and nuts. They help satisfy my craving for something sweet and keeps me in line with my goals.

Today I’m sharing how easy it is to assemble a protein packed trail mix. By using a few key ingredients, you can create the perfect snack for any occasion. Thanks to all of  flavors, it is easy to mix and match depending on your favorites.

There are honestly so many beneficial reasons as to why you should be snacking on trail mix and adding it to your daily routine. I’m just going to share a few:

1. HEART-HEALTHY UNSATURATED FATS //
Fat is essential for vitamin absorption + energy to help maintain cell membranes. These “good fats” help lower cholesterol levels.

2. EASY VITAMIN E //
Vitamin E can help prevent the development of built up plaque in the arteries and this helps make it easier for blood to flow through. Built up plaque can lead to heart disease and chest pains.

3. FILLING FIBER //
Trail mix contains fiber, which helps you feel full. It also  helps control blood sugar levels and keeps your cholesterol in check.

4. POWERFUL PROTEIN //
Nuts are a huge source of an amino acid called I-arginine which is a building block that makes up protein. This amino acid helps keep your arteries flexible and reduces the risk of blood clots.

5. PERFECT FOR TRAVEL //
Trail mixes are the perfect travel snack. There is no need to refrigerate, they are easy to store, and are the perfect balance of fiber, healthy fats, and protein.

So as you can see, there are so many benefits to a trail mix. It is super easy to make and the perfect snack for any day of the week. Looking to snag some DOVE® Chocolate Fruit & Nut of your own? Check out your local Walmart for all the flavors and a special in store display this month. Also here is a coupon for $1.00 OFF your purchase.

Now onto the tutorial…

STEP 1 // CHOOSE YOUR FAVORITE DOVE® CHOCOLATE FRUIT & NUTS
This is a great starting point. For my trail mix today, I went with DOVE® Dark Chocolate Raspberry & Honey Roasted Almond and DOVE® Dark Chocolate Strawberry & Cocoa Almond. Both flavors have the perfect balance of chocolate, nut, and dried fruit.

Some other favorites include: DOVE® Dark Chocolate Blueberry & Vanilla Cashew, DOVE® Dark Chocolate Cranberries, DOVE® Dark Chocolate Blueberries, DOVE® Dark Chocolate Cherries, DOVE® Roasted Almonds covered in Milk Chocolate, and DOVE® Roasted Almonds covered in Dark Chocolate.

STEP 2 // ADD A GRAIN
Adding some complex carbohydrates to your trail mix will help boost your overall energy and will keep you full thanks to the fiber. I went with granola for this one, but some other favorites include: shredded wheat cereal, pretzels, whole grain cereals, puffed rice cereal, whole wheat crackers, popcorn, or even toasted oats.

STEP 3 // ADD A NUTS
Nuts are loaded with healthy unsaturated fats, protein, fiber, antioxidants, vitamin E, and other essential vitamins and minerals. I chose to add cashews because I felt it paired well with the almonds. Other workable nuts include: peanuts, pistachios, walnuts, hazelnuts, pecans, and macadamia nuts.

STEP 4 // ADD SOME DRIED FRUIT
For this one, I chose to go with cranberries to balance out the dried raspberries and strawberries. Some other favorites include: dried apples, cherries, apricots, raisins, banana chips, figs, pineapple chunks, mangos, and dates.

*GCG TIP // OPTIONAL ADD-ONS
I’m pretty straight forward and simple when it comes to my trail mix, but it is always fun to broaden your horizon with a few add-ons. Here are some optional ideas:
SEEDS: pumpkin, sunflower, sesame, flax, or hemp seeds
SPICES: sea salt, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne pepper
SAVORY EXTRAS: wasabi peas, coconut flakes, sesame sticks, or coffee beans

STEP 5 // MIX IT ALL UP
Dump everything into a bowl and mix it together. You can serve it at a party, eat for a fun mid-day snack, have it for dessert, or portion it out into plastic bags for an easy on-the-go snack. This trail mix is super easy to make and husband approved 😉 !