Mediterranean Protein Balls (No-Bake, Party Favorite)

Mediterranean Protein Balls (No-Bake, Party Favorite)

Why you’ll love them

Think energy bites with a Mediterranean soul: toasted nuts, dates, a hint of citrus, and just enough sweetness to feel indulgent—but still wholesome. They’re naturally sweetened, protein-packed, and perfect for snacking, hosting, or late-night “just one more” moments.

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Ingredients (Makes ~16–18 balls)

• 1 cup rolled oats (or oat flour for smoother texture)

• ½ cup natural almond butter (or tahini for a true Mediterranean twist)

• ½ cup Medjool dates, pitted

• ¼ cup chopped pistachios or almonds

• 2 tbsp chia seeds or ground flaxseed

• 1 scoop vanilla or unflavored protein powder

• Zest of 1 orange or lemon

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ¼ tsp cinnamon

• Pinch of sea salt

Optional add-ins:

• 2 tbsp dark chocolate chips

• 1 tbsp honey or date syrup (if you like them sweeter)

• Unsweetened shredded coconut for rolling

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Instructions

1. Soften the dates
   If your dates are firm, soak them in hot water for 5 minutes, then drain.

2. Blend the base
   In a food processor, pulse oats until slightly broken down. Add dates, nut butter, protein powder, citrus zest, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Pulse until a sticky dough forms.

3. Add crunch
   Stir or pulse in chopped nuts and seeds just until combined.

4. Roll
   Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls. If sticky, lightly dampen your hands.

5. Chill
   Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to firm up—or enjoy immediately if you can’t wait (no judgment).

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Serving Ideas

• Serve with Greek coffee or mint tea

• Add to a mezze-style dessert platter with fruit and dark chocolate

• Crumble over yogurt for a sneaky protein boost

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Q & A

Q: Can I make these vegan?
A: Yes! Use plant-based protein powder and maple syrup or date syrup if extra sweetness is needed.

Q: How long do they last?
A: Up to 7 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer (they thaw fast!).

Q: Can I skip the protein powder?
A: You can—replace it with extra oats or ground almonds, but protein content will be lower.

Q: Are they kid-friendly?
A: Absolutely. Just skip seeds if needed and reduce citrus zest slightly.

Q: Can I use peanut butter instead?
A: You can, but almond butter or tahini keeps the flavor more Mediterranean and less dessert-bar vibes.