Move over raisins -there is a new healthy fruit in town! Dates come from date palm trees, which grow in tropical climates. While dates can be eaten fresh off the tree, they’re easier to find in their dehydrated (dried) form. So….what are a few of the benefits dates can offer? They include;

• Dates are filled with nutrients that can support your adrenal health, weight loss and overall wellness.
• Dates are rich in soluble fibre, which support gut health, reduces bloating and keeps your digestion on track.
• Dates are packed with essential nutrients such as potassium, magnesium and iron. The minerals reduce inflammation, support a healthy heart and promote better stress management.
• Dates help to curb sweet cravings. Instead of grabbing a processed sugar snack, use dates to satisfy your sweet tooth naturally.
• Dates contain phystorestrogens and other computes that may help regulate hormones, reduce cortisol levels and improve sleep – all necessary for maintaining a healthy weight.

When purchasing dates, make sure to purchase pitted dates. Keep your bag of dates sealed when not using to avoid dryness.

Here are my top two favourite date recipes!

Peanut butter stuffed dates

Ingredients:

• Medjool dates (pitted)
• 1/2 cup of natural peanut butter (or your favourite nut butter option)

Optional toppings

• Melted dark chocolate
• Crushed nuts or seeds (almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds)
• Coconut flakes
• Sea salt

Instructions:

• Slice each date length wise to create an opening but don’t cut all the way thru.
• Use a small spoon or piping bag to fill each date with peanut butter.
• Add toppings (optional). Sprinkle with crushed nuts, coconut flakes or sea salt for added texture.
• For a more decadent treat, you can drizzle dark melted chocolate on top if desired.
• Place the stuffed dates on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper and freeze for 15-20 minutes until peanut butter firms up and serve.

Please note: You can keep these dates in the freezer and grab when needed a little natural sweetness with a natural fat hit (the peanut butter).

Cocoa energy balls

• 1 cup (approximately 14) pitted Medjool dates
• 1/2 cup of natural peanut butter or almond butter
• 2 heaping tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3/4 cup of walnuts
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• small dash of salt
• 1 tbs of water

METHOD

1.Place the dates, peanut butter, cocoa powder, walnuts, vanilla, and salt into a food processor (or blender) and pulse until all of the ingredients are blended together and forms a thick dough. If the dough doesn’t come together add 1 tablespoon of water.
Roll the dough into small balls and then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
2. Pour coconut in small bowl and roll balls in mixture.
3. Let the bites set for about 3 hours or overnight in the refrigerator. You can also place in the freezer.
Note: The balls can last up to 7 days in the fridge or can be kept in freezer.

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