Pistachio Protein Energy Bars

Don't pay for those expensive protein bars! These are so easy to make and much cheaper per bar! Plus, you can control what, and how much goes in it. No preservatives here! This is what you'll need to make 8 bars:

Photo byKelly Jones

Ingredients:

• 1 cup packed medjool dates, pitted
• 1 3/4 cup shelled, lightly salted, pistachios
• 1/2 cup dried cherries
• 1/3 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup almonds or pumpkin seeds
• Zest of 1 mandarin
• 1 Tbsp mandarin juice approximately 3 segments
• Chocolate drizzle or mini chocolate chips, optional

Blend the dates and cherries in a food processor for about 10-15 seconds until they are finely chopped. Scrape down the sides of the processor, then add the remaining ingredients.

Pulse the mixture for another 10 seconds, scrape down the sides again, and pulse for an additional 5-10 seconds until it becomes sticky but still has visible pieces of pistachios, oats, and almonds (or pumpkin seeds). Stir in mini chocolate chips at this point if using.

Then, line a loaf pan with wax paper, ensuring the paper extends over the sides for easy lifting. Transfer the mixture into the pan and press it down firmly using your hands or a flat spatula until it's smooth and compact.

Place the pan in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes to allow the mixture to set.

Once chilled, lift the mixture out of the pan using the wax paper and place it on a cutting board. Cut into 8 bars and drizzle with chocolate if desired. Serve immediately, or store in the fridge for up to a week. Enjoy!