Tired of the same old hummus? Craving a vibrant, flavorful dip that's both healthy and incredibly easy to make? Then look no further! This sun-dried tomato hummus recipe is your answer. It's a delicious twist on a classic, perfect for dipping pita bread, veggies, or even spreading on sandwiches. Get ready to elevate your appetizer game – or your quick dinner ideas – with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, drained
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup water (more as needed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: Add the chickpeas, sun-dried tomatoes, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, water, olive oil, cumin, and smoked paprika to a food processor.
- Blend: Process until completely smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. If the mixture is too thick, add more water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Season: Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. The flavors should be well balanced – bright from the lemon, earthy from the cumin, and a hint of smokiness from the paprika.
- Serve: Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired. Serve immediately or chill for later. This hummus is even better the next day, allowing the flavors to meld.
Cooking Tips for the Best Hummus:
- Using Canned Chickpeas: Rinsing the chickpeas thoroughly is crucial for removing excess starch, which can make the hummus less creamy.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Selection: Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes offer the best flavor and texture. Avoid sun-dried tomatoes packed in salt.
- Tahini Quality Matters: The quality of your tahini significantly impacts the overall taste. Choose a good quality tahini for the best results.
- Adjusting Consistency: The amount of water needed will vary depending on the type of chickpeas and your desired consistency. Add water gradually to achieve the perfect creamy texture.
Delicious Variations:
- Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Replace the sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a slightly sweeter and less tangy version.
- Spicy Hummus: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Roasted Garlic Hummus: Use roasted garlic instead of raw garlic for a mellower, sweeter garlic flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields approximately 2 cups of hummus. The nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the ingredients used. One serving (about 1/4 cup) contains approximately:
- Calories: 100-120
- Protein: 4-5g
- Fat: 7-9g
- Carbohydrates: 8-10g
- Fiber: 3-4g
This sun-dried tomato hummus is a fantastic example of healthy meals that are quick and easy to prepare. It's perfect for a simple appetizer, a healthy snack, or a delicious addition to your lunch or dinner. Enjoy this flavorful and easy recipe, a great addition to your best recipes collection! It's a simple yet impressive dish that will impress your friends and family. Embrace homemade cooking and discover the joy of creating delicious dishes from scratch!