quinoa + spiri balls

These could totally be a halloween treat! Green goblin balls? Well, for anytime that isn't halloween, they'll still be a protein packed energy ball, made with spirulina, quinoa, and peanut butter. But since halloween really is in two weeks, and I haven't done anything pumpkin yet, these will be my festive creation!

quinoa + spiri balls

• 1 cup soaked medjool dates (10-12 dates)
• 1/4 cup natural peanut butter
• 1-2 Tbsp spirulina (depends on the brand, I use a hawaiian spirulina that is sweet and mild, some have a stronger taste, so use less)
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• pinch of salt 

Process all of the above ingredients in a food processor until a thick green paste is formed.

Transfer to a mixing bowl and add: 

• 3 cups cooked quinoa (I find it easiest to add one cup at a time and combine completely)
• 2-4 Tbsp oat flour (any sort of flour could be used here; buckwheat flour, coconut flour, almond meal... it's just basically to make it less sticky!)
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut

After all is well combined, the mixture will still be sticky, which means green hands and a big mess, but whatever, it's halloween! Form into balls and roll in shredded coconut, refrigerate to set. Happy Halloween!

Spirulina is considered a superfood, it is a blue green algae that is good for your whole body.  Spirulina assists the body's immune system and reduces inflammation. It's loaded with beta-carotene which is good for your eyes, and packed with protein and B vitamins, just what vegans need :)

Reference:

Nutrex Hawaii http://www.nutrex-hawaii.com/benefits-of-spirulina