You and this recipe are a matcha made in heaven! If you’re the type of person who wants the convenience of a energy bar, but also wants to consume more whole-foods, matcha pistachio energy balls are the perfect mid-afternoon snack for you! You can make these green creations at home with minimal kitchen utensils for a quick meal prep session. Their bright color can also make them a fun snack for kids.

When you think about meal prepping, one’s mind tends to go to prepping lunches and/or dinners. Unfortunately, snacking can end up being a last minute thought! We recommend always going in with a plan for snacks if one of your goals is weight loss. Matcha pistachio energy balls are packed with fiber, protein and flavor for a nourishing bite.

What is matcha? Matcha is a high-quality green tea leave that is finely ground into a powder. Matcha’s claim to fame is its antioxidant content. Specifically, a catechin called EGCG.  EGCG is an antioxidant also found in regular green tea, but analysis from ConsumerLab.com show that matcha green tea contains significantly more EGCG compared to regular brewed green tea. Several large, population based studies also suggest that drinking match green tea may help lower LDL cholesterol levels and improve blood pressure.

This recipe also features coconut oil and shredded coconut to add to it’s unique flavors. If you are a fan of coconut, try out Chocolate Coconut Energy Bites too!

Matcha Pistachio Energy Balls

Course: Appetizers and Snacks
Cuisine: American, Gluten Free, Vegetarian
Keyword: Budget-friendly, Easy, Fiber, Kid-friendly, Make ahead, Meal prep, No cooking, Vegan
Condition: Dairy Free, Diabetes, Gluten Free, Low Sodium, Vegetarian
Servings: 14 energy balls

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup pistachios shelled
  • 3/4 cup cashews
  • 12 dates pitted
  • 1/4 cup coconut shredded, unsweetened
  • 2 tsp matcha powder
  • 1 Tbsp coconut oil

Instructions

  • Take ¼ cup pistachios and process in food processor until finely ground. Remove to separate bowl and set aside.
  • Add cashews, remaining ¼ cup pistachios, dates, coconut, matcha powder and coconut oil. Blend well until finely chopped and mixture is sticky.
  • Scoop mixture out into balls, and roll with hands.
  • Roll balls in ground pistachios and chill for 15 minutes! Enjoy!

Nutrition

Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 6g | Sodium: 1mg | Potassium: 135mg | Fiber: 1g

Please note:

Nutrition info is approximate and may contain errors. 

Klara Knezevic is a registered dietitian nutritionist based in Maryland. She has over a decade of experience in the nutrition field and currently serves as the CEO and co-owner of Rebecca Bitzer and Associates, one of the largest nutrition private practices in the country. Klara is passionate about sharing practical nutrition tips to help you feel confident in the choices that you make. Coauthor ofCooking with Food Sensitivities Survival GuideandNourished: 10 Ingredients to Happy, Healthy Eating.