1. Place dates and water in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until water evaporates. Remove from heat.
3. Puree dates with a fork.
4. Add chocolate and stir until melted (some small pieces may remain).
5. Add the orange zest, juice, coconut and oats, and mix well.
6. Shape 12 to 15 small balls with your hands.

Coating

1. Optional: Grill coconut in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes or until golden brown.
2. Place coconut in a medium-sized bowl.
3. Roll date balls in coconut, pressing lightly to coat well.

Chef’s secret

Prefer a different shape to your bites? Simply spread the mixture firmly on a baking sheet, sprinkle with coconut and cut into squares!

DIETITIAN’S TIP: For extra energy, just add seeds, nuts, peanuts, or almond, nut or seed butters!