Vegan Superfood Energy Bars

I came up with this amazing recipe when I was preparing for a school-trip to Bali a while ago, I was worried that I wouldn't be able to find vegan snack options in some places so it would be nice to have something small, easily transportable, and full of nutritious ingredients to carry with me!

It's VERY EASY to make! Seriously! All you need to do is chuck everything in, blend, and form into bars! And of course, they taste amazing. I ended up making more when I came back to top my nicecream/smoothie bowls! Tasty topping for sure!

Chop em' up to make an awesome topping!

As you noticed the title says, Superfood, so let's do an ingredient breakdown to see the health benefits of these plant-based ingredients!

• Medjool Dates: One of the main ingredients, adds a very nice sweetness and holds the bar together! They are high in fibre, minerals (potassium, copper, manganese), also lot's of Vitamin B-6! And of course, dates will give you lot's of energy!

• Rolled Oats: A staple food around the world, and for good reason! A really good source of plant-based protein, fibre, and complex carbs that keeps you full longer!

• Spirulina: If you have followed me for sometime, chances are you know that Spirulina is probably my favourite superfood powder of all time! Complete plant protein & amino acid (it's even more absorbable than beef protein! Helps me make those Vegan Gainzzz!), lot's of vitamins = nutrient powerhouse! And of course, that amazing blue-green colour it gives (no the colour is not edited, it's called a blue-green algae for a reason).

• Chia Seeds: I think this one doesn't need a lot of explanation, because this plant-based omega-3 rich seed is very popular these days! So stop taking those fish oil supplements and start taking chia instead to get your omega-3 in! It's very good for healthy brain function!

• Pistachios: This nut is said to have the highest amount of protein and the lowest amount of fat compared to other nuts! The little amount of fat helps with keeping you full longer! It also helps iron absorption, which is important, especially if you have low iron levels! Not to mention pistachios taste amaziiiiing!!!

Recipe

• 1 1/2 c (about 15) pitted medjool dates (soak them in warm water first if your dates are not soft/gooey)
• 1 c rolled oats
• 1/2 c pistachios
• 1/4 c chia seeds
• 1 tsp Spirulina
• 2 drops peppermint essential oil (optional, but I like the flavour)
• a bit of water, if needed

Method

1. Put the pitted dates in the bowl of your food processor. Process until it turns into a smooth paste.
2. Put in all the other ingredients, process until everything comes together and sticky enough to form a dough (add in a bit of water only if needed/too dry).
3. Press the dough into a container/mould that is lined with parchment paper/plastic wrap (just something to keep it from sticking to the mould).
4. Chill in the fridge overnight. Cut into bars, enjoy!!!