Salted Caramel Apple Dip

Salted Caramel Apple Dip
makes 1 cup dip

So this isn't "real" caramel because there is no sugar or butter, but the combination of robust, smoky dates with a touch of nut butter makes this creamy dip worthy of all your fall apples.  Dates are rich in fiber and also contain magnesium, a nutrient essential for absorbing calcium, and also crucial to help with muscle cramping.  Lemon juice and sea salt make this dip mature and balanced.

1 cup Medjool dates
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup almond or sunflower butter
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
generous pinch of salt + flaked sea salt to garnish

1. In a small bowl, cover dates with hot water and let soak for 5 minutes.  Strain.

2. Combine dates, vanilla, almond/sunflower butter, lemon juice and sea salt in a food processor and blend until smooth.  You made need to add a teaspoon or two of water depending on your food processor.  

3. Garnish with flaked sea salt and serve with apple slices.