No-bake chocolate black bean protein bar

Objective: Get high quality protein post workout.

Solution: No Bake Chocolate Black Bean Protein Bar

• Line a loaf pan with wax paper.
• Process the oats in a food processor until it is a fine powder; transfer to a bowl.
• Add the beans, dates, vanilla, cocoa powder and coconut milk to the food processor until very smooth. Add the ground oats. Pulse until mixture is well-blended and comes together to form a dough.
• Transfer mixture to prepared pan and press to flatten.
• Refrigerate for 1 hour then remove and cut into bars.
• Sprinkle with cocoa powder.
• Individually wrap bars and store in refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Beans and legumes are packed with protein and fiber, provide the good kind of fat, and are loaded with complex carbohydrates, the nutrients that provide energy to the body. You can buy these in bulk, another savings tip, because dried beans and legumes will keep their quality for 6-12 months in an airtight glass container stored in a cool, dry place. When you want to use them, soak overnight (regularly rinsing and adding fresh water) and pressure cook them when possible (this minimizes the lectin levels – suspect of causing immune responses).