I am definetely one that loves salty snacks. If you love your salty foods, chances are you often find yourself a little bored with the same basic options. It’s actually very easy to add a little variety to your snack routine by making some simple yet tasty swaps with a few special ingredients. Take yourself on a culinary journey around the globe with these easy snack time recipes!
Sweet and Spicy Asian Snack Mix
Use Japanese Peanuts, wasabi peas and sesame sticks to put an Asian spin on your favorite snack mix. Stir them in with traditional ingredients, like crispy wheat or rice square cereal and pretzels. Replace the Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce and add a quarter teaspoon of ground ginger and you’ve got a super flavorful twist on a classic that’s salty, sweet and spicy all at once. Bake in the oven or cook in the microwave for an easy shortcut.
Mexican Pigs in a Blanket
These little appetizers can be popular at parties but are also a great idea for a protein-rich snack at home. To make them a little more interesting, swap the puff pastry out for soft flour tortillas. Spread a layer of refried beans, green chilies and cheese over tortilla triangles before rolling them up over a beef sausage. Use a little cooking spray or melted butter to help the tortillas brown in the oven. This version only needs to bake until the cheese is melted, the tortillas are crisp and the sausages are warmed through. Serve with guacamole and salsa for dipping.
Italian Salsa
Chips and salsa can be both an addictive and satisfying snack. This Italian version is perfect for pairing with healthier dipping options, like grilled sliced veggies or toasted whole wheat bread. It’s still delicious with tortilla chips if you want to keep things a little more classic. Mix diced canned tomatoes and jarred roasted red peppers with black olives. (Be sure to drain these ingredients first.) Stir in diced onion, freshly chopped basil and a little olive oil along with salt and pepper to taste. Replace cumin and chili powder with a pinch of dried oregano and swap the lime juice for a dash of balsamic vinegar. Serve with a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese over the top.
You don’t have to be an accomplished chef to incorporate exotic flavors into your everyday food choices. The next time you’re shopping for salty snacks, choose these international ingredient swaps for an interesting spin on your go-to favorites.
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