Similar to "Larabars," I started with a base of nuts and dates, then from there I added in energy boosting ginger and a bit of lemon for some zest! Many different nuts can be used, but I decide to include several types just to pack in more nutrients. Almonds provide a deep nutty flavor, while cashews provide a sweet accent. Walnuts also provide a somewhat bitter flavor which contrasts nicyly with the decadent dates. Once you taste a date (and I mean the really nice and fancy kind) store bought, processed candy will never be the same. In another words, dates are natures candy at its finest!
Nuts, as most know, are packed with their own unique vitamins and nutrients. Walnuts give these power bars heart healthy fatty acids, while almonds add vitamin E protection against cancer. Cashews also bring some power boosting nutrients including antioxidants and even more heart healthy fats.
Despite all their vitamins and nutrients, these sweet treats are perfectly delicious for kids, they will not even know they are eating something healthy!
Lemony Ginger Power Bars
1/2 cup raw almonds
1/2 cup raw cashews
1/2 cup raw walnuts
12 medjool dates, pitted and coarsely chopped
juice of about two small meyer lemons (regular lemons are fine also)
1 tbs chia seeds, or whole flax seeds
1 tsp ginger (or more to taste)
1 tsp cinnamon
sea salt (if desired)
almond meal (for rolling)
Instructions:
Place all nuts in a food processor and process into fine crumbs (but not like flour, you can also make them extra chunky like I did according to preference.) Add in the chopped dates along with the spices. Continue to chop the ingredients until they form a paste.
Next add in the lemon juice, just do not let the mixture get too liquidy. Finally add in the chia seeds, which will soak up some of the lemon juice, add more chia seeds if needed.
Once the mixture has formed a really thick paste, take it out and place on a sheet of wax paper. Place another sheet of wax paper on top and pound the date mixture out to form bars. You can also cut out shapes or form it into balls to give away as gifts. Once you have formed your bars, lightly coat them in almond meal which helps prevent stickiness. Enjoy!