Whether you’re into walking, hiking, kayaking, or other summertime activities, getting outdoors is proven to enhance both physical and mental health. But before you grab your gear and head out the door, it’s wise to be prepared. (Yep, the Boy Scouts were on to something.)

This month’s edition of “PacificSource in the Kitchen” is all about enjoying quality time outside. PacificSource Well-being Program Manager Sabrina Black shares five simple tips for staying safe and healthy during your outdoor adventures, plus a yummy and easy snack recipe you can bring along to stay energized.

About the recipe: Sabrina’s oatmeal peanut butter bars contain a good balance or protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. These macronutrients support your body and energy in different ways, and the combination can help keep your blood sugar a little more stable for sustained energy.

Below the video, you’ll find the full recipe and a recap of the tips.

Oatmeal Peanut Butter Bars

Ingredients

  • 1 cup chopped nuts
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1/3 cup raisins
  • 1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 2 Tbsp chia seeds
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • Pinch ground nutmeg
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ cup peanut butter
  • ½ cup honey
  • 1 Tbsp canola oil
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  2. Spray 8×8 baking pan with nonstick cook spray and set aside.
  3. In a bowl, mix chopped nuts, oats, raisins, chocolate chips, chia seeds, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt, and set aside.
  4. In a separate bowl, combine wet ingredients: peanut butter, honey, oil, and vanilla, and melt in the microwave for 30 seconds.
  5. Add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until blended.
  6. Scrape mixture into the baking dish and press it into an even layer.
  7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until it is browned around the edges.
  8. Once it’s cooled, slice into nine bars.

For a plant-based version: use dairy-free dark chocolate chips and substitute maple syrup for the honey.

5 tips for outdoor fun

  1. Pack a snack. Focus on well-rounded snacks, meaning snacks that have protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.
  2. Stay hydrated. Pack water (not soda or other beverages), and bring extra for longer trips.
  3. Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen that’s 30 SPF or higher. Also, wear protective clothing like hats, long-sleeved shirts, and sunglasses with UV protection.
  4. Tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to return.
  5. Take safety precautions. These will vary depending on your activity and terrain. At a minimum, know the weather possibilities and pack accordingly.

 Thank you. We hope you enjoy the recipe and tips!

Please share this recipe with a friend or family member. We’d also love your feedback. If you try this recipe, please use the comments section below to let us know what you thought and share any tips you have.