Oh, what a nice three day weekend I had. That one extra day off from work makes me feel like I get so much more accomplished on my “must do” list, PLUS I leisurely slept in and managed to fit runs into each day! Love that!
After a run, I try to replenish my body with nutrients right away, usually with a smoothie. I’m never super hungry after working out, but I know my body needs something. My hubby on the other hand is not a smoothie kind of guy. I know, I don’t get it either. 😉
Hummus served with chopped vegetables and multi grain sliders
Yesterday he was putting in way more miles than me (18!), so I wanted to prepare something that he could snack on until he got an appetite. What has plenty of protein to feed the muscles? Hummus! There is about 3 grams of protein per tablespoon. It’s so filling and tasty! Once you learn this hummus basic recipe you can vary your ingredients and make the same flavors you see in the stores; olives, sun dried tomatoes, cilantro.
This takes some mixing power for a smooth texture, so use a food processor or a heavy duty blender. My Ninja blender worked like a pro!
I removed the skin from each bean, which added a few more minutes. Leave them on if you prefer.
Hummus, Basic and Spinach
Ingredients
- 1 (15 ounce) can of garbanzo beans, also known as chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 medium garlic clove, peeled and smashed
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup water, add additional tablespoons as needed for smooth consistency
- Salt to taste
- Drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil
- Dash of paprika
Instructions
Notes
After making the basic recipe, I halved it. Served part plain. The the remaining hummus, I added a handful of baby spinach, removing the stems, and blended until it was smooth.
Recipe adapted from here.
I’ll be packing some up for my afternoon snack.
What is Tahini? It’s made from sesame seeds, ground into a paste. You can grind your own, but more and more grocery stores are carrying it. Usually in the ethnic or health food sections. I also see it near the peanut and almond butters.
The basic hummus is good just as it is, but go ahead and experiment. Add your favorite flavor creating a signature dip. How about throwing in a mixture of olives, roasted red bell peppers, pesto or chili?
Spinach Hummus
I added spinach, punching up the nutrients a bit. Hummus is filling and a great snack between meals!
Feeling adventurous now that you have the basics down? You might also be interested in this Sun Dried Tomato, Avocado, Spinach Hummus from The Kitchen Chopper!
Creamy Spinach Hummus
Looking forward to my afternoon snack….
Sammie
Home made hummus! Wow I’ve definitely gotta try this! I looove hummus but have never looked into making my own! 🙂 bookmarked!
Sandra
Simple ingredients and super easy to make too!
Allison @ Main St. Cuisine
One of my absolute favorite things to snack on! I especially love it mixed with avocado and a little fresh cilantro. Now, I’ll try it with spinach for sure. 🙂
Sandra
Oh, you like the same flavors as me! Now I’m craving cilantro hummus!
Heather @ SugarDish(Me)
How annoying is it to remove the skins from chickpeas? Suuuuper annoying, am I right? WORTH it , though. Tahini is extra hard to find here which is why I have to spend $4.99 on little bitty containers of hummus- homemade is so much better! Yours looks AWESOME. Love the spinach. Bet your husband was a happy guy!
Sandra
I almost said, the heck with it, and kept the skin on. Then I started rolling the beans between my hands to loosen the skin, which worked well and much quicker way to peel! It probably tastes the same with or without, just smoother without.
Sandra
Thank you! 🙂
Sandra
Doctor it up with your favorite flavors!