Protein Bars

These protein bars are multi- purpose in our house.  A post workout protein power boost, an after dinner dessert or a mid-day snack for the children.  They are super healthy, with added protein, omega 3s, and they taste AMAZINGLY GOOD!!  Cut the batch into 12 bars and each little serving packs about 9 grams of protein and about 175 calories.

2/3 c red lentils

1/4 c honey

1/2 c almond butter(or peanut or reconstituted PB2 - a favorite in our house that makes it even healthier)

1 1/2 c rolled oats

1/2 c whey protein (vanilla or chocolate your choice!)

1/3 c toasted wheat germ

2 Tbs chia seeds

1/3 c dried fruit (cherries are my favorite, also prunes, dates, apricots, all would work)

1/4 c pumpkin seeds

1/4 c chopped almonds

1 tsp cinnamon

Simmer lentil in water until softened, approximately 10 minutes, drain.  Heat nut butter and honey in small saucepan until combined and creamy texture, then stir into cooked lentils and cool.  In medium sized bowl add remaining ingredients.  Add lentil mixture and stir to combine.  Line a 9x9 square pan lined with parchment paper, spread mixture evenly onto paper and place in the freezer until hardened.  Cut into squares and store in freezer or refrigerator.