HEART HEALTHY OPTIONS

HEART HEALTHY OPTIONS

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Banana Pecan Cherry Oatmeal

1 cup old-fashioned oats

2 cups water

1/2 cup pecan milk

1 banana, sliced

1/4 cup pecan halves

1/4 cup dried tart cherries

1/4 cup honey

In large, microwave-safe bowl, combine oats and water. Microwave on high 3-4 minutes, or until oats are cooked through. Watch carefully to avoid boiling over.

Remove from microwave, stir and divide between two bowls. Pour 1/4 cup pecan milk over each bowl.

Divide sliced banana, pecan halves and dried tart cherries between each bowl and drizzle with 2 tablespoons honey. Serve immediately.

Cherry Pecan Energy Bites

Makes: 10-12 energy bites

1 cup toasted pecan halves or pieces

1 cup dried cherries

4 medjool dates, pitted

1/4 cup old-fashioned oats

1 tablespoon cacao powder, plus additional, for coating (optional)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

In bowl of food processor, combine toasted pecans, dried cherries, dates, oats, cacao powder and vanilla extract.

Pulse until ingredients begin to bind and form loose, dough-like ball.

Roll into 1-inch balls. Roll balls in additional cacao powder, if desired, and transfer to airtight container. Refrigerate until ready to serve, up to seven days.

Note: To make gluten-free, substitute 1/4 cup of certified gluten-free old-fashioned oats.