Nut-Free Ranch Snack Mix

Ingredients:

• 6 tablespoons dry buttermilk (see note)
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1/8 - 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 4 cups rice cereal
• 2 cups fried salted green peas (see note)
• 1.5 cups bagel croutons, broken into pieces
• 1.5 cups mini pretzels
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Zest of 3 lemons
• 2 tbsp. l. dried chives
• 2 tbsp. l. dried parsley
• 2 tablespoons distilled vinegar

Preparation:

1. Combine the buttermilk powder, garlic powder, onion powder, 2 teaspoons salt, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl. Combine the rice cereal, peas, croutons, and pretzels in a large microwave-safe bowl.
2. Microwave the butter, lemon zest, chives, and parsley in a small bowl on high power for 30 seconds; stir, then continue heating until the butter is melted, another 15 seconds. Add the vinegar.
3. Pour the butter mixture into the bowl with the snacks and stir well to coat. Sprinkle with the dry buttermilk mixture and stir well to coat.
4. Microwave the snack mixture on high power for 2 minutes; stir, then microwave for another 3 minutes, stirring well every 45 seconds.
5. Place everything on a large rimmed baking sheet and let cool and dry for 10 minutes before packing into airtight containers. Snacks can be stored for 2 days at room temperature..
   
   Note
   
   Powdered buttermilk can be found in baking aisles and online.
   
   Fried green peas can be found in nut sections, Japanese grocery stores, and online retailers.