While you enjoy this cool, crunchy nutrition blast, check out this new study that found people who ate almonds boosted levels of HDL – the “good” cholesterol.

Ingredients: 

1 c pitted Medjool dates (about 7.5 oz)
11/2 c rolled oats
1 c roasted unsalted almonds, coarse chopped (about 4 oz nuts)
1/4 c honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar
1/4 c creamy salted almond or peanut butter
Parchment paper

Directions:

Using a food processor, process dates into small pieces. Place dates, oats, and almonds in a large bowl. Warm the sweetener and nut butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until combined, then pour over the oat mixture and mix to break up dates, and combine well. Place mixture in an 8×8 inch baking dish lined with parchment paper. Press down firmly until flattened uniformly. Cover with parchment paper or plastic wrap and let it firm-up in refrigerator or freezer for 15-20 minutes. Remove bars from pan and chop into squares and store in an airtight container for a few days before enjoying.