These Key Lime Pie Energy Bars are definitely going in the "I'm going to be making these on a regular basis" file. They were super easy to make and a great recipe for little kitchen helpers (the kids). And you know what is even better... no added sugar, no gluten, and no dairy. So as long as you don't eat all 12 servings you should be able to digest them well and receive the maximum nutritional benefits.
Did you know...
Dates are quite amazing and weren't a part of my diet until recently. I'll never forget my midwife telling me to consume them regularly - and I didn't because they tasted yucky and most "healthy food" at the time was also yucky. Dates have high amount of vitamins and minerals, including potassium and phosphorus, B1, B3, B6, beta-carotene, and Vit A. They can help relieve constipation and anemia (yay for iron!). Dates contain Folate which is important for fetal development. Dates can also help ease your birth process, postpartum recovery, and give you a nutritious and delicious milk supply. Just remember that you don't need to be a pregnant lady to enjoy dates! They are great for everyone.
You're going to need the following:
INGREDIENTS
* about 8-10 Medjool Pitted dates
* 3/4 cup of whole almonds
* 3/4 cup raw cashews
* 1/4 cup of unsweetened shredded coconut
* zest of 2 key limes
* juice of 3-4 key limes (depending on how juicy they are)
INSTRUCTIONS
1) Put all of the ingredients in a food processor.
2) Process until it starts to hold together. You might need to add a little water or an extra date if it seems a bit crumbly.
3) Press the mixture onto a parchment paper lined pan or baking sheet to form a 9x9 inch square.
4) Let it chill in the fridge to harden.
5) Cut into 12 sections. You can wrap them in parchment paper and store them in the fridge for about 1 week.
This recipe was adapted from The Real Food Dietitians. See their original recipe here: Key Lime Pie Energy Bars
*Don't have limes on hand? Try lemons! They are just as delicious!
*You can also roll these into balls rather than cutting the bars.
