Snacks keep me going during the day, especially on busy days at work.
I received samples of Wonderful Pistachios mentioned in this post. I am entering a recipe contest sponsored by Wonderful Pistachios and am eligible to win prizes associated with the contest. I was not compensated for my time.
My go-to snack is a handful of nuts. I love all types, especially when they’re roasted. Pistachios in particular are high in both protein and fiber, and lower in fat than most nuts, so they fill you up and keep you full. While this recipe hides that gorgeous green color in chocolate, it’s good to know that all that color is in an indication of an antioxidant-packed nut.
Though I already loved Wonderful Pistachios for a heart-healthy snack on the go, I was so excited to use them for the base of these chocolatey pistachio protein bites. I am completely obsessed by these bites. I’ve been making a batch on Sunday afternoon and then packing two for work every day. I like to eat one for a late morning snack and one for a later afternoon snack.
I’ve had a few people ask how they might work for breakfast, and I think a couple would make a great breakfast too, especially if you prefer something smaller. I also love the idea of the chocolately pistachio protein bites for a pre- or post- workout snack, or maybe to top a bowl of oatmeal or even a smoothie. They are not just something to get some healthy protein and calories to get you through, but seriously delicious.
More snack ideas: Creamy pepita dip/spread, roasted baby artichokes, vegan whole wheat raspberry muffins.
- 6 oz. bag Wonderful lightly salted pistachios
- ½ c raw cashews (or pieces)
- ¼ c raw sunflower seeds
- 2 T ground flax seed
- 1 T chia seeds
- 1 T hemp hearts
- ¼ c coconut butter
- 2 T coconut oil
- ¼ c cacao powder*
- 1 T maca powder
- 3 T plant-based vanilla or chocolate protein powder ( I like TerraSoul brand)
- ¼ cacao nibs
- Add all ingredients, including the optional add-ins, to a large food processor (do not add the cocoa nibs, if using). Blend until the ingredients break down and form a thick-dough like ball, about 5-6 minutes.
- If adding the cocoa nibs, remove the dough ball and add it to a large bowl. Mix in the cocoa nibs with a wooden spoon or your hands until well incorporated.
- Form the dough into 16 bite-sized balls and place on a cookie sheet. Place in the freezer to harden for 1 or more hours. Store in the fridge for up to 10 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months. The bites tend to get soft after a few hours at room temperature, they are best enjoyed cold.
I order my coconut butter from Thrive market. I buy flax, hemp hearts, chia seeds, cacao powder, maca powder, and cacao nibs from Trader Joe's.
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So health boosting ! Thank you so much !
Yes, thanks! Nice and filling too, which is really a must for snacks.
These look great! My family loves protein balls!
Thank you! They’re such an easy and filling snack.