Peanut Butter Date Bites

Ingredients:

• A few dates (Medjool variety works great!)

• Peanut butter (look for the ingredients list and try to get one that only contains peanuts and salt)

• Almonds or a different nut of choice

• Shredded coconut (unsweetened)

• Fresh raspberries (or any berry)

• Optional dark chocolate drizzle or crushed bits

Directions:

1. Remove the pit from the date (grow it into a lovely houseplant or or throw it away)

2. Gently open the date and make a"pocket"

3. Place a spoon of peanut butter inside the date

4. Add toppings: almonds, shredded coconut, or a chocolate drizzle

5. Place a raspberry inside

6. Eat right away or keep in the fridge for later!

Health facts:

• Dates lower inflammation in the brain and prevent the formation of plaques that contribute to Alzheimer's disease.

• Bone health (contain minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium)

• Blood sugar control (low glycemic index)

• Contain disease-fighting antioxidants (flavonoids) that reduce inflammation

• Fiber (regulate normal bowel movements)

Cultural connection:

Dates are grown in hot climates and are a key food used to break one's fast

during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. The stone fruit is recorded as far

back as 4000 BCE in Arabia (modern day Saudi Arabia). Their health benefits

were known even in ancient times, as pregnant women often ate them to induce

labor. Read more about their long history here!