Easy Assorted Nuts Dried Fruit

I stumbled onto this mix one frantic afternoon before friends arrived unexpectedly. I tore through my pantry, grabbed every nut and dried fruit I had, and dumped them into a bowl. What started as desperation turned into the easiest crowd-pleaser I've ever made.

The first time I made this, I watched people hover around the bowl all evening, returning for handful after handful. One friend confessed she skipped dinner because she couldn't stop snacking. That's when I knew this simple pile had serious power.

Ingredients

• Roasted almonds: I always reach for roasted because they bring that deep, toasty flavor raw ones just can't match. Look for unsalted if you want to control the seasoning yourself.
• Roasted cashews: These add a buttery richness that balances the tartness of the fruit. Make sure they're fresh, stale cashews ruin the whole vibe.
• Shelled pistachios: They bring a gorgeous green pop and a slightly sweet, earthy taste. Don't skip them, they make the mix feel special.
• Pecan halves: My favorite for their tender crunch and hint of natural sweetness. If they taste a little bitter, they're old, toss them and grab a fresh bag.
• Dried cranberries: Tart and chewy, they wake up your taste buds between handfuls of nuts. I love the ones that aren't overly sugared.
• Dried apricots, chopped: Sweet and tangy with a soft bite. Chopping them makes them easier to grab and ensures every scoop gets a little piece.
• Dried cherries: These are like little bursts of sunshine, sweet with a touch of tartness. They're the first to disappear in my house.
• Golden raisins: Milder and sweeter than regular raisins, they add a gentle chew without overpowering the mix.

Instructions

Gather Everything:

Pull out all your nuts and dried fruit. Lay them on the counter so you can see what you're working with. The colors alone, deep browns, bright reds, golden yellows, will make you smile before you even start mixing.

Combine and Toss:

Dump everything into a large mixing bowl. Use your hands or a big spoon to toss it all together gently. You want every scoop to have a good variety, not all nuts at the bottom and all fruit on top. It takes maybe thirty seconds of stirring, and you'll see the mix come together into something that looks way more impressive than the effort required.

Serve or Store:

Transfer the mix to a pretty serving bowl if you're hosting, or pour it into an airtight container if you're making it ahead. It'll keep for a week at room temperature, though I've never had a batch last that long. The smell of toasted nuts and sweet fruit is impossible to resist.

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This mix became my go-to the night I hosted a last-minute gathering after a long week. I didn't have the energy for elaborate snacks, but this simple bowl made everyone feel welcomed and cared for. It reminded me that the best hosting isn't about perfection, it's about sharing what you have with warmth.

Making It Your Own

Once you've made the basic version, start swapping things out. Add walnuts for a deeper, earthier flavor, or toss in some macadamias if you're feeling fancy. Dried mango or pineapple bring a tropical twist, and dark chocolate chips turn this into a dessert-worthy treat. I've even stirred in a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne when I wanted a little kick. The beauty of this mix is that it bends to whatever you have on hand or whatever mood you're in.

Keeping It Fresh

Store your mix in an airtight container at room temperature, and it'll stay crunchy and delicious for about a week. If you live somewhere humid, the nuts might soften a bit, so consider keeping it in the fridge. I've also learned to portion it into small jars for grab-and-go snacks during busy weeks. Just don't leave it out in an open bowl overnight, or you'll wake up to stale, sad remnants.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

I love setting this out in a low, wide bowl so people can reach in easily. Scatter a few small bowls around the room if you're hosting a crowd, it keeps the flow moving and prevents bottlenecks. I've also packed it into little bags tied with ribbon for party favors, and guests always light up. One friend told me she keeps a jar on her desk at work and swears it's the reason she survives afternoon meetings.

• Toss in a handful of coconut flakes for a tropical vibe that pairs beautifully with the dried fruit.
• If you're serving kids, leave out anything too spicy and add a few mini marshmallows for fun.
• For a fancier presentation, layer the mix in a clear glass jar so the colors show through, it's like edible art.

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This mix proves that the simplest things often bring the most joy. Keep it on hand, and you'll always be ready for whatever comes your way.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute different nuts in this mix?

Yes, you can swap in walnuts, macadamias, or other favorite nuts based on availability or preference.

→ How should I store the nut and fruit blend?

Store in an airtight container to keep freshness, ideally consumed within one week.

→ Can I add flavors to enhance this mix?

Absolutely. A pinch of cinnamon or cayenne adds warm spice, while dark chocolate chips or coconut flakes offer extra richness.

→ Is this suitable for special diets?

Yes, it suits vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets, but always check for allergen concerns like tree nuts.

→ What occasions is this mix great for?

It's perfect for snacking, parties, casual gatherings, or as a light energizing treat anytime.