Ingredients
Scale
For the Hummus:
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons tahini (sesame paste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1–2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 garlic clove, minced (or ½ teaspoon garlic powder)
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2–3 tablespoons water (adjust to desired consistency)
- A pinch of smoked paprika (optional, for garnish)
- A drizzle of olive oil (optional, for garnish)
For the Baby Carrots:
- 2 cups baby carrots (pre-washed and peeled)
- Optional garnish: Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor and decoration
Ingredient Highlights
- Chickpeas: Chickpeas, the main base for hummus, are packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. They help keep you full and satisfied while supporting heart health.
- Tahini: This sesame paste adds richness and creaminess to the hummus, along with a subtle, nutty flavor.
- Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice adds brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the tahini and chickpeas.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil contributes a silky smooth texture to the hummus and provides heart-healthy fats.
- Garlic: Garlic adds a savory depth of flavor that complements the nuttiness of the tahini and earthiness of the chickpeas.
- Baby Carrots: Baby carrots are naturally sweet and full of vitamins like Vitamin A and potassium, making them a healthy, low-calorie snack.
Instructions
Prepare the Hummus:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by draining and rinsing the chickpeas to remove excess sodium. Peel and mince the garlic if you’re using fresh garlic.
- Blend the Hummus: In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine the chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth.
- Adjust the Consistency: If the hummus is too thick, gradually add water one tablespoon at a time and continue blending until you reach your desired consistency. The hummus should be creamy and slightly thick, but spreadable.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the hummus and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, lemon juice, or garlic to your liking. If you prefer a bit of spice, you can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
- Garnish (Optional): For a beautiful touch, drizzle a little extra olive oil on top of the hummus and sprinkle with smoked paprika or a few sesame seeds. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can also be added for extra flavor.
Prepare the Baby Carrots:
- Wash and Serve: If you’re using pre-washed baby carrots, simply arrange them on a serving platter or individual bowls. If they need to be cleaned, give them a quick rinse under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Serve: Arrange the baby carrots around the hummus for easy dipping. If you like, you can also garnish the carrots with some fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve Immediately: Once everything is ready, serve the baby carrots and fresh hummus on a platter. This snack is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (for blending)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-6
- Calories: 150-200
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 6g