Nutty Date and Apricot Energy Bars

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Seeds:
- - 1/3 cup (50 g) sunflower seeds
  - 1/3 cup (50 g) pumpkin seeds
  - 1/3 cup (50 g) toasted sesame seeds
Dried Fruits:
- - 1 cup (200 g) pitted dates
  - 1 cup (200 g) dried apricots (reserve a few pieces for texture)

Nuts and Flavorings:
- - 2/3 cup (80 g) walnuts, chopped
  - 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon liquid vanilla

- Toast the Seeds
  - Toast the sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds in a dry pan over medium heat until golden and aromatic.
  - Toast the sesame seeds separately until lightly browned and fragrant.

- Prepare the Dried Fruits
  - In a food processor, blend the dates and apricots into a sticky paste.
  - Reserve a few pieces of dried apricots to mix in later for added texture.

Combine the Ingredients
- - In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted seeds, date-apricot paste, and chopped walnuts.
  - Add the orange zest, liquid vanilla, and reserved apricot pieces.
  - Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
Shape and Chill
- - Transfer the mixture to a container lined with parchment paper or wrap it in cling film.
  - Press firmly with a wet spatula or your hands to create an even layer.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to firm up.
Serve
- - Once chilled, cut into bars or roll into bite-sized balls. Enjoy immediately or store for later.

Serving Suggestions

- Serve with your favorite smoothie as a post-workout snack.
- Enjoy as a healthy dessert alternative.
- Add to a lunchbox for an energy-boosting midday treat.

Cooking Tips

- If the mixture is too sticky, sprinkle in a little desiccated coconut to help bind it.
- Use a wet spatula or damp hands to press the mixture into the container easily.
- Experiment with different nuts like almonds or pecans for variety.

Nutritional Benefits

- Rich in Fiber: Dates, apricots, and nuts provide dietary fiber for digestive health.

- Packed with Healthy Fats: Walnuts and seeds offer omega-3 fatty acids and other heart-healthy fats.
- Natural Sweetness: No refined sugar, as the dried fruits provide natural sweetness.
- High in Vitamins: Apricots and orange zest are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.

Sustained Energy: A combination of carbs, fats, and protein provides a long-lasting energy boost.

Dietary Information

- Gluten-Free: Made with naturally gluten-free ingredients.
- Dairy-Free: Suitable for those avoiding dairy.
- Refined Sugar-Free: Sweetened naturally with dried fruits.

Nutritional Facts (Per Bar, Approximate)