Are you looking for a quick and healthy appetizer or snack that's bursting with flavor and vibrant color? Look no further! This Flower Child Avocado Hummus is the perfect recipe for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a delightful twist on classic hummus, incorporating the creamy goodness of avocado for an extra layer of richness and a beautiful green hue. This recipe is packed with healthy fats, fiber, and protein, making it a guilt-free indulgence for your taste buds. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- ¼ cup tahini
- ¼ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Water, as needed for desired consistency
- Optional toppings: chopped fresh cilantro, red pepper flakes, everything bagel seasoning
Instructions:
- Combine ingredients: Add the avocado, chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to a food processor.
- Blend until smooth: Process the mixture until it reaches a completely smooth and creamy consistency. Scrape down the sides of the food processor as needed.
- Adjust consistency: If the hummus is too thick, add water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Start with a tablespoon and add more as needed.
- Taste and adjust seasonings: Taste the hummus and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add more lemon juice for tanginess, garlic for a bolder flavor, or salt and pepper to balance the flavors.
- Serve and enjoy: Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as chopped fresh cilantro, red pepper flakes, or everything bagel seasoning. Serve with pita bread, vegetables, crackers, or tortilla chips.
Tips for the Best Flower Child Avocado Hummus:
- Use ripe avocados: Ripe avocados will give you the creamiest hummus. Avoid avocados that are hard or bruised.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a brighter, more vibrant flavor than bottled juice.
- Don't over-process: Over-processing can make the hummus bitter. Process until smooth, but don't let it run for too long.
- Adjust to your taste: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. This recipe is a great starting point, but you can customize it to your preferences.
Variations:
- Spicy Hummus: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Roast a red bell pepper until charred, then peel and add it to the food processor for a smoky, sweet flavor.
- Herby Hummus: Add a handful of fresh herbs, such as parsley, dill, or mint, for an extra layer of freshness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250 (depending on serving size and toppings)
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This Flower Child Avocado Hummus is a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-make recipe that is perfect for any occasion. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas, healthy meals, and easy recipes for homemade cooking. Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful dip!