"Eat More" Quinoa Energy Bars

Hungry for more? This recipes was featured in a podcast episode!

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These bars have the protein benefit of quinoa, the sweetness of dates and a hit of dark chocolate - the perfect combination when a snack craving hits.

Prep Time: 10 min

Cook time: n/a

Yield: approx. 6 bars

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup quinoa pre-rinsed

• 2/3 cup water

• 16 whole dates pitted, no sugar added

• 1/2 cup almonds raw, with skin

• 1/3 cup peanut butter natural, crunchy (almond butter is an option)

• 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)

• 1 tablespoon honey

Directions

1. Add quinoa and water to a small sauce, cover and bring to a boil, reduce heat to a simmer and cook approximately 15 minutes or until all water has been absorbed. Cool to room temperature and refrigerate at least 2 hours or overnight.

2. Using a food processor, or high-powered blender, add dates and pulse until they form a ball. Remove dates and place in a medium mixing bowl. Add almonds to the food processor and pulse until finely minced. Be careful not to turn the almonds into flour.

3. Add dates, almonds, peanut butter, and chilled quinoa to the food processor and pulse until ingredients are well combined. Return ingredients to the mixing bowl, shape into six 2-inch x 1-inch bars, about 1-inch thick.

4. In a small saucepan, add chocolate chips and honey, melt over low heat or in a double-boiler. Evenly spread a thin layer of chocolate over the top of each protein bar, return to the refrigerator and allow chocolate to harden. Bars can be stored in an airtight container for several days.

5. Optional, omit the honey and add chocolate chips to the food processor when adding the quinoa.

This amazing recipe was found on skinnyms.com