As summer comes to an end I am attempting to desperately cling to my favorite parts of this warm 
season. When it comes to food, I love the bounty that summer brings but what I look forward to most are fresh, ripe berries picked straight from the vine and consumed immediately. Though this recipe doesn’t use fresh berries, the presence of the dried berries are enough to bring summer back instantly with each and every bite. (Bonus part about using dried berries- this recipe can be made all year round whenever you’re craving a taste of summer!)
WHY you should give it a try:
Almonds
- Almonds are a great source of vitamins that have been known to increase brain health. They are connected to increased brain activity and therefore are a great food for growing children.
- They are great for raising good cholesterol levels (HDL) and lowering bad cholesterol levels (LDL).
- Almonds are full of good fat- vitamin E which is a rich antioxidant that protects the bodies cells from oxidative damage. Studies show that increased amounts of vitamin E in the diet are linked to lower rates of heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.
- This nut is high in an essential vitamin that many of us are lacking, magnesium. Magnesium is involved in more than 300 bodily processes and almonds happen to contain high amount of it. The consumption of just 2 ounces of almonds can provide your body with nearly half the recommended daily value of magnesium that can help with controlling blood sugar, and lowering blood pressure.
Strawberries
- Vitamin C protects cells from cancer-causing chemicals. It is also anti-inflammatory which is helpful in curing osteoarthritis, asthma and rheumatoid arthritis to name a few. Not to mention vitamin C is also vital for the proper function of a healthy immune system.
- Strawberries are also very well known for the promotion of eye health. The antioxidant properties of this berry are beneficial in the prevention of cataracts, while the vitamin C is great for strengthening the eye’s cornea and retina.
- The flavonoids and antioxidants in strawberries, primarily those from the phytonutrients present, have been proven to help combat many cancers and help to lower cholesterol.
Blueberries
- Blueberries are extremely high in antioxidants which is beneficial for many reasons including anti-aging and the prevention of certain cancers.
- The presence of carotenoids, flavonoids, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin A and few others are all very beneficial and essential for ocular health.
- Blueberries are also great for the heart and have been linked to reduced levels of oxidized LDL which is helpful in preventing heart disease.
WHERE to get the goods:
- All of the nuts are readily available at almost all grocery stores. Nuts are an item that I recommend buying raw (not roasted) and in bulk in order to save a little money.
- Freeze dried berries can be found year round at the market. The reason why I used the dried version of these berries was to make it easy to repeat this recipe anytime you need to channel those summer vibes.
HOW to enjoy it:
- Kids love them and they are packed full of beneficial vitamins and minerals for their growing bodies.
- These granola bars also make a great snack on the go!
Grainless Summer Fruit Granola Bars
2016-08-31 14:54:46
Yields 8
Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
25 min
Total Time
35 min
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup almonds
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 1/2 cup freeze dried blueberries
- 1/2 cup freeze dried strawberries
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 2 tbsp chia seeds
- 1/4 tsp cardamom
- sprinkle of salt
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 2 tbsp coconut oil, melted
- 1 heaping tbsp peanut butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350.
- In a food processor or high speed blender, roughly chop almonds and walnuts, about 10-12 pulses in a food processor.
- Add in the blueberries and strawberries and pulses 2-3 more times, being sure not to turn into in a powder; the goal is to breakup the bigger strawberry pieces.
- Add to a medium bowl with the sunflower seeds, cranberries, almond flour, chia seeds, cardamom and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine honey/maple syrup, coconut oil, peanut butter and mix well.
- Pour wet mixture into dry ingredients and mix until combined.
- Line 8x8 pan with parchment paper and press mixture into pan. Use a rolling pin or glass to pack it tightly so the bars will stay together after baking.
- Bake at 350 degrees until the edges are golden (25-30 minutes). Remove from the oven and let cool completely before cutting with a sharp knife.
- Store in refrigerator for up to one week.
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