Photographs shot by the talented Sukaina Rajabali
If I could find the best way to describe these addictive quinoa superfood treats, it would be to imagine the Rice Krispie cakes you had as a kid.
Now … cover them with rich dark chocolate … throw in a load of naturally sweet dates and goji berries … up the crunch level by at least 10 and convert something unhealthy and sugary into nutritious and completely guilt-free!
And don’t forget, utterly addictive.
Last month I was asked to feature in Spinneys Food magazine for their ‘Learn to Cook’ feature and to create something that people could learn from as well as having a healthy twist. I came up with these absolutely delicious popped Quinoa bars that are full of healthy superfoods and nutritious combinations! Popped quinoa gives a whole new level on regular quinoa with it’s taste and texture. It’s crunchy, somewhat earthy, and paired with naturally chewy and sweet ingredients like medjool dates and goji berries – it’s a dream!
I couldn’t really keep my hands of them one they were made and lucky for me, as we were doing a step-by-step feature, I had to have the whole before and after shots ready which = double portions = winning!
They’re honestly great for everything! On-the-go-snacks, after-dinner treats or simply an any-point-of-the-day guilt-free indulgence! They keep well in the fridge for 4-5 days so make up a big batch and get munching!
You can buy already popped quinoa which saves steps 1-6 in the instructions below and will make these really quick to put together. If you have kids running around at home or want to be able to whip together a quick tasty treat then I’d recommend going that option, it then becomes as simple as mixing all the ingredients together and letting them cool.
It’s always lovely to make things from scratch though, plus you get to learn a new cooking skill … so if you have the time then follow the recipe step by step!
Please do share your creations by tagging @LeanLivingGirl on your social platforms, I would love to see the end results and you have a chance to feature :)
Here are the pictures to make these delicious popped quinoa squares! (Full recipe below).
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Rinse and bake the quinoa
Caramelise the pecans
Wild guess anyone!?
Blending our moreish medjool dates…
Mix errrrr’thing together until fully combined
Press it down real good into the baking tray
Because what’s a treat without Lindt 85% dark chocolate
Pour it over (slightly better than I did here)
And sprinkle with toasted almonds!
Voila!
Crispy, chewy, totally indulgent (yet healthy) nut and berry quinoa bars! Thank you @AmysCooking for the being the most awesome food stylist!
Hello and welcome! I'm Carly, originally from London but currently enjoying a little adventure in Dubai. A travel and wellness blogger exploring the world one step at a time. Think fabulous food at undiscovered gems, unique destinations, skin care obsessions and so much more. This is my life, I hope you enjoy the ride!