I liked to mail these bars in a care package to my college-aged son and daughter before test week.

Several sources of omega  – 3 fats and tryptophan,   plus blueberries support optimal brain function and mood.

1 1/2 cups walnuts

2/3 cup rolled oats (old fashioned or quick cooking)

1/2 cup almonds

1/2 cup raw pumpking seeds

1/2 cup unsweetened shreedded coconut

1 cup packed pitted dates

1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons ground chia seeds

1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons ground flaxseeds

1 teaspoon vanilla, preferable alcohol-free

pinch of salt

1 cup dried blueberries

In a food processor, process walnuts, oats, almonds, pumpkin seeds, and coconut until finely chopped, but not totally ground.

• Remove 1 1/2 cup of mixture and set aside.
• Add dates, and process until finely chopped. The mixture should hold together when pressed. if not, add 1 teaspoon water and process again.
• Add chia seeds, flax seeds, vanilla, and salt.
• Process until thoroughly mixed.

Add blueberries and reserved nut mixture and process. Press firmly into an 8″x8″ pan. Cover. Keep refrigerated.

Variation.

Substituted dried pineaple raisins or other dried fruit for part or all of the dates.