Being nut free, this sesame seed slice is perfect for school lunches.  It is also packed full of protein, good fats, fibre and antioxidants – so is a great snack to keep you satisfied.

What are the health benefits of sesame seeds?

• Helps lower cholesterol levels – due to presence of phytosterols and oleic acid (which helps to lower LDL or “bad” cholesterol).
• Helps to promote healthy skin – due to zinc content
• Help reduce stress levels and balance blood sugars – due to Magnesium content
• Good source of protein
• Good source of fibre
• Good source of antioxidants
• Rich in many essential minerals – including Calcium, Iron, Manganese, Zinc, Magnesium and Selenium. Many of these minerals play an important role in bone mineralisation.

Recipe: Sesame Seed Slice

(GLUTEN FREE, DAIRY FREE, PALEO, VEGAN)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sesame seeds
• ½ cup sunflower seeds
• ½ cup pepitas / pumpkin seeds
• ½ cup shredded coconut
• ½ cup tahini
• ¼ cup coconut oil (melted)
• ½ cup pure maple syrup (or raw honey)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method:

• Preheat oven to 175C fan forced.
• Combine all dry ingredients in a mixing bowl. (sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, pepitas and shredded coconut).
• Melt coconut oil on saucepan
• Turn off heat, then add tahini, maple syrup (or honey) and vanilla extract. Mix to combine.
• Add the wet ingredients to the mixing bowl, and stir well to combine.
• Place ingredients into a medium rectangular tin (you don’t want the slice to be too thick or when you cook it, it won’t be crunchy).
• Cook for approximately 15 minutes (or until becomes golden on top).
• Take out and let cool on bench, then place in fridge for about 1 hour to cool down completely.
• Once completely cool, it should be quite crunchy/firm and you can cut into small square.
• Best to store in the fridge.