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- These no-bake snacks are easy grab-and-go options rich in protein.
- These truffle-like bites are packed with fiber, antioxidants and healthy fats.
- You can use a different nut butter if you prefer, or opt for nut-free with sunflower seeds.
Power through the day with our Chocolate-Pistachio Energy Balls. Deeply chocolaty, these energy balls are packed with fiber from pistachios, chia seeds, dates, almond butter and black beans, which give each bite a truffle-like consistency. The Medjool dates provide sweetness without added sugar, and the cocoa powder adds richness and inflammation-fighting polyphenols. Make a batch of these when you need a wholesome energy boost packed with protein and fiber. Keep reading for our expert tips on preparation, ingredient substitutions and more.
Tips from the EatingWell Test Kitchen
These are the key tips we learned while developing and testing this recipe in our Test Kitchen to make sure it works, tastes great and is good for you too!
- To ensure smooth blending, make sure the black beans are fully dried after rinsing; excess moisture can make the mixture too soft.
- If the mixture feels sticky when shaping, lightly moisten your hands or chill the dough for 10 minutes before rolling it.
- Replace the almond butter with peanut butter or cashew butter—or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
- For extra flavor, consider stirring in a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of espresso powder along with the cocoa.
Nutrition Notes
- Pistachios aren’t only green, but are also yellow and can have violet skins—all of which signal antioxidants. They are also considered a source of complete protein, meaning they contain all nine essential amino acids.
- Black beans are a fiber-packed pulse that is excellent for supporting digestive and heart health. They are rich in anthocyanins—antioxidants that can fight inflammation associated with chronic conditions such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
- Chia seeds are an additional source of protein and fiber in this recipe. Chia seeds are also a source of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids called alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which can help reduce the risk of heart disease and support overall health.
- Medjool dates are dried dates high in natural sugars, making them an excellent addition to recipes that need sweetness. They are also rich in fiber and contain potassium, two nutrients that support heart health.