Peanutbutter Quinoa Bars

Modified from: https://skinnyms.com/quinoa-protein-bars/

1/3 cup quinoa, pre-rinsed
2/3 cup water
16 whole (pitted) dates, no sugar added
2/3 cup natural crunchy peanut butter
1/4 cup dark or semisweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon agave nectar (optional)

Add quinoa and water to a small sauce, cover and bring to a boil, reduce heat to a simmer and cook approximately 15 minutes or until all water has been absorbed. Cool to room temperature and refrigerate at least 2 hours, overnight will work as well.

Using a food processor or high powered blender, add dates and pulse until they form a ball. Remove dates and place in a medium mixing bowl.

Add peanut butter to the food processor and pulse until no longer crunchy. Add dates and cold quinoa to the food processor and pulse until ingredients are well combined.

Return ingredients to the mixing bowl, shape into 6 - 2" x 1" bars, about 1" thickness. Place on a dish, refrigerate until chocolate is set.

In a small saucepan, add chocolate chips and agave. Melt over low heat or in a double-boiler. Evenly spread a thin layer of chocolate over the top of each protein bar, return to the refrigerator and allow chocolate to harden.

Bars can be stored in an airtight container for several days.

Optional, omit the agave and add chocolate chips to the food processor when adding the quinoa.