GIVE IT A SWIRL

THIS LUSH, FRUITY DESSERT IS ALSO A GREAT HEALTHY SNACK OPTION WITH A CUP OF TEA

BLUEBERRY AND LEMON SWIRL BARS

Makes: 18

INGREDIENTS

290g (2 cups) cashew nuts 185ml (3/4 cup) coconut milk, plus 1 tbsp extra 125ml (1/2 cup) fresh lemon juice

60ml (1/4 cup) maple syrup 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

2 tsp finely grated lemon rind 125ml (1/2 cup) melted coconut oil

120g (3/4 cup) frozen blueberries, thawed in a bowl

BASE

80g (1/2 cup) cashew nuts, lightly toasted

80g (1/2 cup) sunflower seeds, lightly toasted 45g (1/2 cup) desiccated coconut, lightly toasted 150g fresh dates, pitted, chopped

1 tbsp coconut oil Pinch sea salt

METHOD

Place cashews in a large bowl. Cover with cold water. Soak for four hours. Rinse under cold running water and drain. Grease the base and sides of a 20cm (base measurement) square cake pan. Line with baking paper, allowing the sides to overhang. For the base, process cashews, sunflower seeds and coconut in a food processor until coarsely chopped. Add dates, oil and salt. Process until well combined. Press into base of prepared pan. Use a straightsided glass to smooth the surface. Place in the freezer for 30 minutes or until firm. Use a high-speed blender to blend soaked cashews, milk, juice, maple syrup, vanilla, rind and 100ml oil until very smooth. Transfer two-thirds (about 550g) of the cashew mixture to a bowl and stir in extra coconut milk. Add berries and any juice from the bowl, and remaining oil to the blender with remaining cashew mixture and blend, scraping down sides occasionally, until very smooth. Spoon half the mixtures, in random spoonfuls, into the prepared pan. Use a butter knife to create a swirled effect. Repeat with remaining mixtures, using the knife to create a swirled effect. Place in the freezer for six hours or until set. Stand pan at room temperature for 15 minutes to soften slightly. Cut into 18 pieces. Store in a lined airtight container in the freezer for up to one month.