Trying to “shed” the winter with spring outdoor fun?

Spring has sprung, and it’s time to get outside and enjoy some fun in the sun. And it’s always good to have some energy snacks on-hand to get the most out of our adventures in the great outdoors. But while we love to bask in the warmth, our snacks don’t always fare so well in the sun and heat. And that’s where the great taste, nutrition and portability of Medjool dates come in.

Ooops! Did you leave your Medjool dates in the car for the day? No problem—they’re grown in the heat—they’ll be fine to eat! Need something that packs tons of energy in a small size for those long bike trips? Put a few Medjools in your pannier bag. Want the perfect treat that won’t weigh you down on your hike, but will match the gorgeous view from the top of the mountain you just climbed? You guessed it.

Fruit has always been a perfect snack. It’s a healthy source of vitamins and nutrients and because fruit contains natural sugar, it’s also a delicious and convenient source of energy. But when it comes to a healthy, food-safe fruit that also travels well, Medjool dates are a star.

Leading a busy, active life means finding the time to refuel your body. And that’s why so many Canadians turn to convenient—but unhealthy—snacks for a quick energy fix. Medjool dates are one of the best natural snacks because they’re low to medium on the glycemic index—rare for something that tastes so sweet. For all these reasons, Medjools are called a “power fruit.”

Medjools contain six essential nutrients and are high in antioxidants called polyphenols. They contain no sulphites, sulphur or added sugar, and they have 50 percent more potassium by weight than bananas.

So do what nomadic tribes have done for millennia: take Medjool dates with you wherever you go.

Fresh Natural Delights Medjool Dates are available year-round and they stay fresh for a long time in the refrigerator. Look for the clear plastic tubs in the produce section of your local grocery or specialty foods store.

For more information and recipes, visit naturaldelights.ca

 

Need some energy to go? Bring a bag of this trail mix along for a portable, healthy snack.  Be sure to buy extra Natural Delights to have on hand for the perfect snack. Happy eating!

Medjool Date Trail Mix

½ cup (125 mL) dried cranberries
½ cup (125 mL) dried blueberries
½ cup (125 mL) Natural Delights Medjool Dates, pitted and quartered
½ cup (125 mL) almonds, toasted*
½ cup (125 mL) pecans

Toss all ingredients together in a large bowl. Store in an airtight container.

*Tip: Toast almonds at 400F (200C) for 4-5 minutes, cool completely.

Serves 4-6

Per serving: 283 calories, 14g fat, 1 mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate, 5g fibre, 4g protein