Sometimes I get tired of eating my fruits and vegetables plain. I love dried fruits, especially mixed with some nuts to create my own trail mix. I’ve decided to get more inventive with my apples this time around, though.

These dried apple slices are a welcomed switch from the regular gala apple I usually have as part of my lunch. Another bonus is that these are made in the microwave, which makes them much less time-consuming, and there are no dirty dishes to wash. Besides that, they create a whole new taste with with sprinkled cinnamon on top.

You can make these in as big or small of a batch as you wish. I only sliced one apple, but if you wanted to do more, you can. It will just take more time and more batches in the microwave to complete your snack. I sprinkled only cinnamon and sugar on my apple slices, but if you wish to add nutmeg, apple pie spice, or any of your other favorite spices, I think that would be a welcomed test.

If you’re in need of a snack that will last a few days and can be made in a pinch, go for these dried apple slices. You can add them to other dried fruit, pretzels, yogurt covered raisins, mixed nuts, whatever you think would make the best snack mix for you, or you can do what I have done and eat them plain, with just the cinnamon flavor and sweet crunch to satisfy your hunger. Whichever suits your fancy, this is a great way to get your fruits in a new, unique and quick way, while also helping sustain a healthier lifestyle for 2017.

Ingredients:

1 gala apple

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 teaspoon sugar

Directions:

Cut apples into very thin slices using a mandolin slicer (or knife, if you’re talented).

Place slices in a single layer on a piece of parchment paper. You will likely have to work in batches, even with just one apple.

Place parchment paper in the microwave and heat for 3-4 minutes until edges start to curl. Flip each apple chip and heat again for 30-60 seconds.

Remove from oven and sprinkle evenly with cinnamon and sugar. Let cool at room temperature until crispy, at least 30 minutes (depending upon your microwave).