Munchies!

I struggle with snacks. When I read ingredient lists for packaged snacks, even ones claiming health benefits, I never hesitate to put them back on the grocery store shelf (although I would so love to take over the entire aisle and put an enormous "WARNING - what you are about to indulge in contains harmful substances" banner across it). It saddens me to think about the overwhelming amount of kids growing up on nutrition-void and chemical-pumped foods, and also the parents who don't seem to catch on to the connection between food and behaviour, health and defenseless immune systems.
And while my kids won't yet touch some foods, like goats cheese, I am setting a good example by choosing it over fake cheese spread (you know which one I'm talking about). Creamy brie or sharp cheddar is their first choice, thank goodness.




My sister-in-law, Lauren, and I enjoy long chats about our society's food and therefore health issues, together we dig deeper and try to come up with better solutions for our families. There are plenty out there, let me tell you, and most are much simpler than you'd think. I laughed (and cheered!) as she told me about offering her boys a quick dinner of fast food one busy, busy day (it takes much busyness to get to that point), resulting only in big tears from boys who'd much rather eat their mom's home cooked dinners than a meal in a box. Who says kids need processed chicken to be kids? Allow them to learn about the good stuff, get them involved in cooking, and be surprised with the results. It's simply amazing, and yet makes so much sense.
So try these sweet and salty, nutrition packed nuts... with goats cheese on apple slices at home or pack a yogurt and sprinkle these on if you're on the go, or simply enjoy right out of the jar. I know you, and your offspring, are going to love them.




Maple Glazed Almonds with Sunflower Seeds and Pepitas

1 1/2 cups raw, whole almonds
1/2 cup raw, unsalted sunflower seeds
1/2 cups raw, unsalted pepitas
1/3 cup real maple syrup
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
pinch kosher salt

Place a 12 inch cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the almonds and seeds, pour over the maple syrup, stirring constantly to coat thoroughly. Continue until nuts being to caramelize and become glossy, about 4 - 6 minutes. Quickly add in cinnamon and kosher salt, then remove from heat, and spread on a sheet of parchment paper. Cool and store in an air-tight container.