As spring approaches and we continue our celebration of National Nutrition Month, we thought these chocolate peanut butter energy balls. These rich and chewy balls of fun are not only healthy, but the perfect way to ease your way into a healthy lifestyle in a delicious way. Packed full of protein, fiber and nutrients, these energy balls work before or after a workout.

 Chocolate Peanut Butter Energy Balls

Serves: 12
Serving size: 1 ball
Calories: 60

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana – mashed
• 1 tbs cocoa powder
• 2 tbs natural peanut butter
• 2 tbs flax seed meal
• 2 tbs vanilla protein powder
• pinch sea salt
• ¾ c old fashioned oats

Instructions:

1. Mash the banana in a medium bowl and add in cocoa powder, peanut butter, flax, protein powder and a pinch of sea salt
2. Continue to mash with fork until all ingredients are fully combined (May seem dry at first but keep mashing)
3. Stir in oats using a rubber spatula to combine edges of the bowl
4. Using a small ice cream scooper or two teaspoons, form into 12 balls and place on a plate lined with wax paper
5. Refrigerate for 30 minutes or up to 3 days covered with plastic wrap
6. Enjoy!

Look out for new recipes on Organic Odes every Friday!