Quinoa Protein Bars

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There are times when we have cravings for less-than-healthy snacks. Our Quinoa Protein Bars are a great way to satisfy a craving while maintaining a healthy diet. This delectable snack uses quinoa and dark chocolate, as well as other superfoods, to create a tasty treat that is a perfect snack before and after workouts or when that afternoon craving for something sweet hits. And for anyone on a gluten free diet, healthy quinoa foods are like hitting the jackpot!

TIP: Make this recipe into 20 Quinoa Protein Bites at about 1" each, and you've got a snack that's under 100 calories!

serving size: 1 bar | Calories: 376 | Previous Points: 8 | Points Plus: 11 | Total Fat: 13 g | Saturated Fats: 3 g | Trans Fats: 0 g | Cholesterol: 0 mg | Sodium: 3 mg | Carbohydrates: 63 g | Dietary fiber: 10 g | Sugars: 33 g | Protein: 14 g

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  • 6

Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup quinoa, pre-rinsed
  • 2/3 cup water
  • 16 whole (pitted) dates, no sugar added
  • 1/2 cup raw almonds with skin
  • 1/3 cup natural crunchy peanut butter (almond butter is an option) or try SunButter (gluten-free)
  • 1/4 cup Dark Chocolate Chips, Optional Enjoy Life Chocolate Chips
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional)

Preparation

Step 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...overnight will work.

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 mill. Add dates, almonds, peanut butter and cold quinoa to the food processor and pulse until ingredients are well combined. Return ingredients to the mixing bowl, shape into 6 - 2" x 1" bars, about 1" thickness. Place on a dish, refrigerate until chocolate is set.

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.

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

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