Since starting my healthy eating journey, I’ve been on a quest to find the perfect quick snack.  My requirements: healthy ingredients, low fat and low calorie, nutritious, good source of protein, with a hint of sweetness.  I would prefer gluten, soy and dairy free, but it’s not a deal breaker.  I have tried every granola/snack bar on the market and, while my go to afternoon snack are the Usana protein bars, I sometimes want another option.  Enter Jessica’s Energy Bites.

I created these from my need for a quick snack that would provide me with needed energy and protein without a lot of fat or calories.  I don’t eat much meat so finding other sources of protein is a must for me.  I also wanted to avoid the high fat content that can be found in many vegan/raw snacks and bars.  These fill my needs while also being super easy to make and grab on the run!

The protein comes from the oats, nut butter and protein powder.  You’ll get a health boost from the lignans, fiber and Omega 3’s found in the sesame seeds and flax seeds.  Grinding the flax seeds releases more of the fiber and nutrients for our body to absorb.  I enjoy the crunch and texture of whole flax seeds, so I ground half, but feel free to grind them all if you prefer.  The coconut oil, cinnamon, agave and touch of sea salt bring it all together!   The nutritional statistics are listed below, and with 5 grams of protein and under 130 calories these are perfect for before a workout, as an afternoon pick me up or to satisfy a peanut butter/chocolate craving any time of day!

Jessica’s Energy Bites

3 tablespoons whole flax seeds (grind half of these)

2 tablespoons sesame seeds

3 scoops Usana chocolate nutrimeal protein powder

1/2 cup natural peanut butter (or any nut butter – would be great with almond butter!)

1 1/2 teaspoon coconut oil (if you don’t have this on hand, use olive oil)

2 tablespoons agave syrup (or maple syrup)

2 tablespoons water

Mix all ingredients well (hands dipped in water work best!).  Roll into equal size balls and place in a single layer on a plate or cookie sheet.  Place in fridge to cool for one hour.  This batch made 14 energy bites for me.

Nutritional statistics per energy bite:

123 calories

7.3 fat grams

5 protein grams

9.5 carbohydrate grams