Featuring just a handful of ingredients, they are sweetened with only nutrient-rich dates and can be prepared in just about 20 minutes! I’ve been on a mission to eat more dates lately, because they’re thought to improve labor when eaten during the last month of pregnancy. Since dates are naturally sweet and delicious, I’m happy to increase my consumption, regardless. Even if you’re not pregnant, dates are a beneficial addition to the diet, since they’re rich in fiber, which can promote digestive health and relieve constipation. They are also rich in magnesium, which is known for its anti-inflammatory benefits, reducing the risk of high blood pressure and stroke. Paired with the antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids found in walnuts, these bars are a grain-free, nutritious treat! — Raw Date Squares (Vegan, Paleo) makes one 8″x8″ pan Adapted from this recipe Ingredients: For the crust/crumble: 3 cups raw walnuts 8 soft Medjool dates, pitted and chopped 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted 1/2 teaspoon salt For the filling: 2 cups soft Medjool dates, pitted and tightly packed 1/2 cup water 1/2 teaspoon vanilla 1/4 teaspoon salt Directions: Line an 8″x8″ baking dish with parchment paper or plastic wrap. In a food processor fitted with an “S” blade, pulse the walnuts until they are finely ground into a meal. Add in the chopped dates, coconut oil and salt, and process again until sticky dough is formed. Set aside 1 cup of this dough to save for the crumble topping, then transfer the rest of the dough to the lined baking dish, using your hands to press it evenly into the bottom of the pan. To prepare the date filling, combine all of the ingredients in a blender or food processor, and process until a uniform filling is created. Spread the filling over the crust evenly, then crumble the reserved cup of dough over the top. Use your fingers to gently press the crumble topping into the date filling, then place in the fridge for at least 2 hours to set. Serve chilled for best texture, and store any leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week. Enjoy! — Reader Feedback: What’s your favorite way to eat dates?
