MATCHa Protein BAlls

Matcha has skyrocketed in popularity because it contains a concentrated amount of antioxidants, which may reduce cell damage and prevent chronic disease. What is it though? 
 
It’s like green tea, but is grown differently and has a unique nutrient profile. Farmers grow matcha by covering their tea plants 20–30 days before harvest to avoid direct sunlight. This increases chlorophyll production, boosts the amino acid content, and gives the plant a darker green hue.
 
You can probably find matcha powder at your local grocery store but of course there are many choices on Amazon. Make a batch of these protein-filled balls for St. Patrick’s Day and you’ve got the perfect green snack.

Ingredients

• ½ cup (56g) almond flour
• ½ cup (40g) quick oats
• 2 scoops (54g) Legion French Vanilla Whey+ Protein Powder*
• 1 tablespoon matcha green tea powder
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt
• ½ cup (125g) almond butter
• ¼ cup (85g) honey**
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

 
Directions

1. Mix the first five ingredients (almond flour, oats, protein powder, matcha powder, and salt) together in a medium mixing bowl. 
2. Add the wet ingredients (almond butter, honey, and vanilla) and stir well with a fork or spatula. The dough will be thick! 
3. Use a spoon to scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture and roll between your palms to form a ball. Use a scale to measure each ball at 32 grams and you should get 11 total. 
4. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours before enjoying. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or the freezer for up to 3 months.

 
*You can use any protein powder, but I highly recommend using a vanilla flavor. 
**You can substitute maple syrup or agave nectar for the honey.
Macros will slightly change with substitutions.

Makes 11 balls.
1 ball = 137 calories
​7 Protein 
11.5 Carbohydrates
7 Fat

One little reminder: These might be considered a “healthy” snack, but that doesn’t mean they’re low calorie. Still a much better option than most packaged cookies/desserts.