Tired of the same old boring snacks? Craving a healthy and delicious dip that's both easy to make and incredibly flavorful? Then look no further! This Lemon Dill Hummus recipe is about to become your new favorite healthy meal addition. It's a vibrant twist on a classic, bringing together the creamy richness of hummus with the bright zing of lemon and the fragrant freshness of dill. Perfect for a quick appetizer, a healthy lunch, or even a delicious addition to your dinner table, this recipe is a testament to the magic of homemade cooking. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup water (more if needed)
- 1/4 cup packed fresh dill, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Paprika, for garnish
Instructions:
- Combine ingredients: In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, water, dill, and cumin.
- Blend until smooth: Process until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the food processor as needed. If the mixture is too thick, add more water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Season to taste: Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat if you like.
- Serve and enjoy: Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and sprinkle with paprika for a beautiful garnish. Serve with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers.
Cooking Tips for the Best Hummus:
- Use good quality tahini: The flavor of your hummus will be significantly impacted by the quality of your tahini. Choose a tahini that is smooth and has a rich flavor.
- Don't over-process: Over-processing can make your hummus gummy. Process until smooth, but don't blend it for too long.
- Adjust the seasoning to your liking: Taste the hummus as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly. Some people prefer more lemon juice, while others prefer more garlic.
- Chill for best flavor: For the best flavor, chill the hummus in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Delicious Variations:
- Roasted red pepper hummus: Add 1/2 cup of roasted red peppers to the food processor along with the other ingredients.
- Spicy jalapeno hummus: Add 1-2 finely chopped jalapenos for a spicy kick.
- Classic hummus: Omit the dill and lemon for a more traditional hummus flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
This Lemon Dill Hummus recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas that are both delicious and healthy. It's a great way to showcase the versatility of simple ingredients and elevate your homemade cooking game. Enjoy this burst of sunshine on your plate!