Immune Boosting Almond Bars

by Alexandria Smith, Nurture

We've been making these bars at our house for a couple of years now... basically ever since I realized how easy they were, how much better for us they were than store bought snack bars, and finally what made me love these bars even more, was when I learned their ingredients encourage a healthy immune system. As a mom to three young kids, "immune boosting" is a magic phrase to me. Omega 3's are known as an adaptogen, (a food that allows our bodies to function at their optimal state), and these bars are full of plant based omega 3's in the form of chia seed. Because of the presence of almonds, they also contain zinc, another immune boosting mineral.  Dates are antioxidant rich, which also contributes to keeping our bodies healthy by protecting it from free radicals. And the best part is, my kids can't get enough of them, which gives me such peace of mind when cold and flu season rolls around soon.

Place all of the following in a food processor...

1 cup raw almonds

1/2 cup almond butter

1/2 cup gluten free oats

1/2 cup pitted dates

2 tbs chia seeds

1 1/2 tbs raw honey

1/2 cup unfiltered coconut oil

1 tsp pink himalayan salt

2/3 cup of allergen free (vegan) semi sweet chocolate chips

Pulse until everything is combined and begins to ball together. Then empty the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and pat it down with your hands until you have a 1/2 inch thick square. Place in freezer for a few hours until hard.  Then take out, cut into bars and keep in a glass mason jar in the freezer.