These bars are a smart pre- or post-workout snack, with a combination of natural carbs from the dates for quick energy, protein for muscle support and a pinch of sea salt to help replenish electrolytes lost in sweat.

Yield: 6 bars

4 Medjool dates, pitted

¼ cup hot water

1 cup almonds

½ cup protein powder of choice

¼ cup no-sugar-added dark chocolate chips

¼ tsp sea salt

Place dates in a small bowl. Cover the dates with hot water and set aside.

In a food processor, pulse almonds until roughly chopped. Add protein powder and pulse a few times to mix. Add the soaked dates and the soaking water and pulse until mixture becomes sticky and holds together when pressed.

Press mixture into a small square or rectangular container of about 3-cup capacity.

Place the chocolate chips in a small microwave-safe bowl and heat in the microwave for 30 to 40 seconds, stirring midway through. Pour melted chocolate on top of the mixture.

Sprinkle with sea salt.

Freeze the container for 15 minutes until the chocolate is set. Cut the chocolate-covered mixture into six bars. Store in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for up to six months.

Recipe and image courtesy of Dawn Jackson Blatner, RDN, CSSD, author of The Superfood Swap.

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