Taking nutritious to the next level with these Raw Spirulina Hemp Balls. Not only are they loaded with nutrients, but they also taste delicious and are quite quick and easy to prepare.
I don’t know who was the first person who came up with the idea of raw treats and desserts. Whoever it was, I’ll be eternally grateful to them for opening up this window of endless possibilities! Raw energy balls, bars, and bites are some of the easiest and quickest desserts/snacks to make. Seriously, they take less than 10-15 minutes from start to finish, leaving you with delicious and nutritious treats you could enjoy guilt-free.
This time we’re making them extra nutritious by adding my favorite superfood, spirulina. You might be cringing now, if you’re new to spirulina or if you’ve tried drinking it straight up dissolved in water (been there, done that, ugh not good…). However, mixing a bit of spirulina into energy balls does not affect the taste in a negative way at all. It just adds an earthy flavor, along with a gorgeous green hue that makes them visually attractive as well! I wasn’t sure if it was just me and whether my taste buds had adjusted to the rather odd taste of spirulina. So I made these for some friends and they all seemed to enjoy them as much as hubby and I did! I also like adding spirulina to my smoothies or in popsicles for the beautiful color and amazing health benefits.
Health Benefits
Spirulina is a simple one-celled blue-green algae, available in powder or tablet form, which I consider to be my all natural multivitamin and mineral supplement! It is an excellent source of vital minerals such as iron, potassium, calcium, magnesium and vitamins B, C, D, A, E, easily assimilated by the body. It is often touted for its high B12 content. However, there is a lot of debate about whether this particular form is active and absorbable. So I wouldn’t recommend it as the single source of B12 for vegetarians and vegans.
Spirulina is also 65-71% complete protein with all essential amino acids in perfect balance, which is greater gram for gram than both red meat (only 22% protein) and lentils (only 26%)*. In addition to being rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, spirulina includes anti-inflammatory essential fatty acids such as GLA and omega-3s and is extremely high in chlorophyll.
When choosing Spirulina, make sure it comes from a clean source and is organic, as others can be contaminated or have nitrate compounds as additives. The recommended daily dose is typically 3-5 grams. But it’s best to start with a smaller dose to see how your body responds to it and work your way up gradually. Due to its cleansing and immune boosting nature; however, pregnant and lactating mothers, children and people with certain conditions (such as autoimmune diseases) should not take spirulina before contacting their healthcare provider.
Raw Spirulina Hemp Balls
Yields about 15 balls
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup raw pumpkin seeds
- 1/2 cup pistachios (Nut-Free: use sunflower seeds)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup hemp hearts
- 1/4 cup dried apricots (or 5-6 dates, pitted)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 2 teaspoons spirulina
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Directions
- Throw all ingredients in a food processor and process for about 15 seconds until well combined
- Roll into balls and coat with sesame seeds, unsweetened coconut flakes, raw cacao nibs or other coatings of your choice, if desired
- Enjoy! And store leftovers in the fridge
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