Spiced Date-Walnut Snacks

Okay, I lied and I'm using dates again. But bring these along to Thanksgiving if you don't want to go to the whole hassle of making a vegan pie (I didn't have time this year!) They're quick and easy and delicious out on a dessert buffet.

In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons orange juice with 1/2 tsp. cinnamon and 1/2 tsp. ginger, stirring with a whisk. Add 3/4 cup walnuts and toss to combine. Arrange the walnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees for 8 minutes.

In another bowl, combine 2 cups chopped, pitted dates with a teaspoon of grated orange rind.

Line a 9x5 loaf pan with plastic wrap, letting about 2 inches of wrap extend over the edge of the pan. Press one-third of the date mixture into the bottom of the pan (the dates will smoosh together to form a complete, thin layer). Top with 1/2 of the walnuts. Repeat with another third of the dates, the rest of the walnuts, and then the final third of the dates, pressing each layer into each other. Cover with the rest of the plastic wrap, and place a weight on top (such as a can of soup or can of beans). Let stand overnight.

On Thanksgiving morning, invert the loaf onto a serving plate. Cut into 20 little pieces. Each piece is 90 calories.

Cost:
dates $5.39
orange $1.43