Salted Dark Chocolate Pistachio Quinoa Crunch Bars

Delight in the perfect combination of sweet and salty with these Salted Dark Chocolate Pistachio Quinoa Crunch Bars. They are a fantastic no-bake snack option, perfect for busy days or a healthy treat after a workout. Packed with nutritious ingredients such as quinoa, flaxseed meal, and pistachios, these bars are not only delicious but also provide a great source of protein and energy, making them suitable for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious Ingredients: These bars feature wholesome components like quinoa and flaxseed meal that offer essential nutrients.
• No-Bake Convenience: Quick to prepare without the need for baking, making them perfect for last-minute snacks.
• Sweet & Salty Flavor: The blend of honey and dark chocolate creates a delightful contrast that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
• Versatile Snack: Great for on-the-go munching, post-workout recovery, or even as a sweet treat after dinner.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, you’ll need a few essential tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan
• Parchment paper
• Medium mixing bowl
• Medium pan
• Microwave-safe bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: Provides the perfect shape for your crunch bars, ensuring even cutting and an appealing presentation.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes it easy to remove the bars from the pan once set.

Ingredients

Delicious salted dark chocolate pistachio quinoa crunch bars filled with nutritious ingredients like quinoa, flaxseed meal, pistachios and cashews. These sweet & salty, protein-packed quinoa crunch bars are naturally sweetened with honey and a little chocolate for a wonderful no bake snack or healthy treat!

For the Base:

• ½ cup natural drippy almond butter (or sub peanut butter or sunflower seed butter)
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup gluten free rolled oats
• ⅓ cup uncooked quinoa
• ⅓ cup flaxseed meal
• 1/3 cup shelled pistachios
• ¼ cup roasted cashews or almonds

For the Dark Chocolate Topping:

• 1 (2.5 ounce) dark chocolate bar, dairy free if desired (or sub ⅓ cup dark chocolate chips)
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios, for sprinkling on top
• Maldon sea salt, for sprinkling on top

How to Make Salted Dark Chocolate Pistachio Quinoa Crunch Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Line an 8 ½ x 4 ½ inch loaf pan with parchment paper. Set aside.

Step 2: Toast the Quinoa and Oats

Add quinoa and oats to a medium pan over medium low heat.
* Toast quinoa and oats for 3-6 minutes until they turn golden brown.
* Alternatively, toast in an oven at 325 degrees F for 8-10 minutes.
Once done toasting, set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Base Ingredients

In a medium bowl:
1. Combine almond butter, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Add the toasted oats and quinoa mixture along with flaxseed meal, pistachios, and cashews.
3. Stir until well combined.

Step 4: Form the Bars

Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan.
* Spread evenly across the pan.
* Press firmly down to compact the mixture.

Step 5: Melt the Chocolate Topping

Break up the dark chocolate bar into chunks.
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate pieces and coconut oil.
2. Microwave in 30-second intervals until melted.
3. Pour over the pressed mixture in the loaf pan while tilting to coat evenly.

Step 6: Final Touches

Sprinkle chopped pistachios on top of the melted chocolate.
Place in the fridge for about 4 hours until completely hardened.
Once set:
1. Remove from pan using parchment paper.
2. Sprinkle with Maldon sea salt before cutting into squares or bars.
3. Store covered in fridge for optimal freshness.

Enjoy your homemade Salted Dark Chocolate Pistachio Quinoa Crunch Bars!

How to Serve Salted Dark Chocolate Pistachio Quinoa Crunch Bars

These delicious bars are perfect for a quick snack or dessert. Their sweet and salty combination makes them versatile, allowing you to enjoy them in various ways.

As a Snack On-the-Go

• Packed with protein and healthy fats, these bars make an excellent option for busy days, providing sustained energy without weighing you down.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside fresh fruits like berries or banana slices for a refreshing contrast that enhances the flavor profile of the bars.

Crumbled Over Yogurt

• For a delightful breakfast or dessert, crumble the bars over dairy-free yogurt. The crunch adds texture and flavor that complements the creaminess of the yogurt.

As a Pre-Workout Boost

• Enjoy these bars before your workout to fuel your body with essential nutrients and energy. Their combination of carbs and protein makes them ideal for athletes.

How to Perfect Salted Dark Chocolate Pistachio Quinoa Crunch Bars

Perfecting your salted dark chocolate pistachio quinoa crunch bars ensures they turn out delicious every time. Here are some helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients – Ensure that your nuts and seeds are fresh for optimal flavor and nutritional value.
• Toast quinoa and oats – Toasting brings out the natural flavors in quinoa and oats, enhancing the overall taste of your bars.
• Pack tightly – When pressing the mixture into the pan, make sure to pack it down firmly. This helps the bars hold together better once set.
• Let them chill – Allow sufficient time in the fridge to ensure that the chocolate hardens properly and the bars firm up for easy cutting.

Best Side Dishes for Salted Dark Chocolate Pistachio Quinoa Crunch Bars

Pairing these bars with complementary side dishes can elevate your snacking experience. Here are some great options.

1. Fruit Salad – A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the richness of the bars.
2. Nut Mix – A handful of mixed nuts can provide additional crunch and protein, making for a satisfying snack.
3. Vegetable Sticks with Hummus – Crisp veggies paired with creamy hummus offer a great contrast to the sweet bars while keeping things healthy.
4. Chia Seed Pudding – Creamy chia pudding is a nutritious side that pairs well with these crunchy treats for breakfast or dessert.
5. Smoothie Bowl – Create a refreshing smoothie bowl topped with granola and fresh fruit for an energizing meal.
6. Coconut Yogurt Parfait – Layer coconut yogurt with granola and fruit to create a delicious parfait that complements the flavors of your bars.
7. Oatmeal – A warm bowl of oatmeal can be a hearty addition, especially when topped with sliced bananas or additional nuts.
8. Rice Cakes – Light rice cakes spread with nut butter add crunch without overpowering the flavors of your quinoa crunch bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Salted Dark Chocolate Pistachio Quinoa Crunch Bars can be simple, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are a few tips to ensure your bars turn out great every time.

• Skipping the Toasting Step – Failing to toast the quinoa and oats can result in a bland flavor. Toast them lightly to enhance their nuttiness.
• Not Pressing Firmly Enough – If you don’t press the mixture firmly into the pan, the bars may crumble when cut. Use a spatula or your hands to ensure they are compact.
• Using Cold Ingredients – Cold almond butter can be hard to mix smoothly with honey and vanilla. Warm it slightly to achieve a creamy consistency.
• Neglecting to Chill Properly – Cutting the bars before they have fully set in the fridge will lead to messy squares. Allow at least four hours for proper chilling.
• Overheating Chocolate – Melting chocolate too quickly can cause it to seize. Use short intervals in the microwave and stir frequently for a smooth topping.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Salted Dark Chocolate Pistachio Quinoa Crunch Bars in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Freezing Salted Dark Chocolate Pistachio Quinoa Crunch Bars

• Seal bars in a freezer-safe container or wrap them individually with plastic wrap.
• They can be frozen for up to three months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Salted Dark Chocolate Pistachio Quinoa Crunch Bars

• Oven – Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Heat bars for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat individual bars on medium power for 15-20 seconds until soft.
• Stovetop – Place bar in a skillet over low heat, covering it briefly until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common inquiries regarding Salted Dark Chocolate Pistachio Quinoa Crunch Bars.

Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?

Yes! Feel free to substitute cashews, almonds, or any nut of your choice based on your preference.

How do I make these bars vegan?

To make Salted Dark Chocolate Pistachio Quinoa Crunch Bars vegan, simply replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar as a sweetener.

Can I add protein powder to my bars?

Absolutely! You can mix in protein powder when combining the dry ingredients; this will boost their nutritional value without altering the taste much.

How do I know when my bars are ready?

The bars should be firm and set after chilling for about four hours. If they hold their shape when removed from the pan, they’re ready!

Final Thoughts

Salted Dark Chocolate Pistachio Quinoa Crunch Bars are a delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors packed with nutrition. Perfect as a snack or healthy treat, these bars are versatile and customizable. Feel free to experiment with different nuts or sweeteners based on what you have at home!