It’s National Peanut Butter Day! Peanut butter is not only a delicious, protein-packed treat, but it also contains important nutrients such as iron, folate, magnesium and zinc.

Just be careful not to overindulge, since most peanut butter contains saturated fat. The American Heart Association recommends that saturated fat make up only 5-6% of your daily calories. A single standard, store-bought serving of peanut butter contains about 3 grams of saturated fat. That’s below the Heart Association’s recommended limit.

Celebrate National Peanut Butter Day with this scrumptious, no-bake recipe from EatingWell.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup creamy natural peanut butter

• ½ cup pure maple syrup

• 2 cups rolled oats, toasted (see note)

• ½ cup dried blueberries (or substitute your favorite dried fruit)

• ½ cup chopped pistachios

• ½ teaspoon salt

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Line an 8-inch-square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving extra hanging over two sides. Lightly coat the parchment with cooking spray.

2. Mix peanut butter and maple syrup in a large bowl. Stir in oats, blueberries, pistachios and salt. Spread the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan. Refrigerate until cold, about 1 hour. Cut into 16 squares.

Store airtight at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to one week.

Note: If you have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, make sure the oats you choose for this recipe are labeled “gluten-free.” Oats are often cross-contaminated with wheat and barley.

Makes 16 servings.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Calories: 206; Fat: 11g; Carbs: 22g; Protein: 6g

Recipe Card for Peanut Butter, Blueberry & Oat Energy Squares

Source: EatingWell