TAHINI OAT BANANA BITES

MAKES ABOUT 15–20 BITES

AGELESS ANTIOXIDANTS

LONGEVITY LOVER

PROTEIN DREAM

STRONG BONES

These bites are great to have on hand when you want something quick, light, and nutritious to fuel your morning workout. I like to grab a couple to energize my early morning walks. They’re also ideal when you want a bite of something sweet and nutritious after dinner during the week. Tahini is a rich source of calcium and phosphorous, which help strengthen bones and teeth.

1 cup rolled oats

1 ripe large banana, or 1½ medium bananas, mashed

½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut

¼ cup raisins (optional)

1 tablespoon tahini

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

¼ teaspoon cinnamon

Preheat oven to 350ºF.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. In a medium bowl, combine oats and banana until a sticky mixture is formed. Add remaining ingredients and combine. Pack mixture into a tablespoon measure and drop onto the lined baking sheet. You may need to use a knife to help scoop out the mixture. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until oats turn golden brown. Serve warm or at room temperature. Store in an airtight container inside or outside of the fridge for up to 1 week.

TIPS These bites are not intended to be very sweet, but you can add ½ teaspoon of maple syrup, if desired.

1 tablespoon of almond, cashew, or other nut butter can be substituted for the tahini.