A quick and healthy alternative to other high fat snacks that your guests will love is homemade hummus. Hummus is a bean spread that originated in the Middle East and is made with garbanzo beans (chickpeas), a sesame paste called tahini and other spices and seasonings. You could buy different varieties of this in your local grocery store, but it is much more cost effective and fun to make at home. Hummus is famous for being a health food, but two tablespoons contains 50 calories and 3 grams of fat. It provides important nutrients such as fiber, protein and unsaturated fat and whether you make it at home or purchase it from the store, the nutrition it contains is usually about the same. If you do purchase it from the store, check to see that it is not full of unnecessary calories, sodium or preservatives. Use it as a dip for fresh vegetables or an appetizer for parties or picnics by spreading it on squares of rye bread.
A food processor works best for making this delicious snack and it is pretty simple. You can also substitute the chickpeas for different beans such as white or edamame beans. Try different flavors to spice it up with garlic, parsley, basil, scallion, dill and lemon juice to create a healthier version. Simply place all ingredients in the food processor and pulse until smooth. Dipping options are endless, but some popular choices are carrot sticks, sliced cucumbers or whole-wheat pita bread.
Store bought hummus can also be seasoned up and taken to a party if you have little time to prepare a dish by using fresh herbs, pine nuts, sun dried tomatoes or olives. Fresh hummus should be used within 7 to 10 days of making it and store bought can last up to 3 months unopened. It can also be used to spread on sandwiches, added to salad dressings or pasta dishes for an added variety to everyday dishes. So, try helping your friends enjoy something new and different and take this delicious snack to your next celebration.
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