Did you know that hummus is made of chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans? Studies show that people who eat chickpeas/hummus had higher intake of some key nutrients like vitamins and dietary fiber. Studies also show that chickpea/hummus consumption may be associated with better weight management and lower risk of cardiovascular disease.

Let’s make some homemade hummus today - it’s super easy!

INGREDIENTS:
• 1 can chickpeas (drain and keep the liquid)
• 1 juiced lemon
• 3 tbsp tahini
• 2 garlic cloves
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• ½ tsp ground cumin

DIRECTIONS:
1. Place chickpeas (you can save some to decorate on the top), lemon juice, tahini, garlic, olive oil, salt, and ground cumin in a food processor and process until smooth.
2. If the hummus is too thick, add the chickpea liquid, one tbsp at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
3. Taste, adding more salt and lemon juice as needed.
4. Place in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil.

Hummus can be a healthy alternative for a lot of things - replace mayonnaise in your sandwich, cheese on your cracker, or creamy dip for your veggie sticks. Our favorite dish is spreading the hummus on cucumber slices and topping it with half a sun-dried tomato, sunflower seeds and paprika!

REFERENCES:
1. Wallace TC, Murray R, and Zelman KM. The Nutritional Value and Health Benefits of Chickpeas and Hummus. Nutrients. 2016 Nov 29;8(12). pii: E766. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5188421/
2. O’Neil CE, Nicklas TA, and Fulgoni III VL. Chickpeas and Hummus are associated with Better Nutrient Intake, Diet Quality, and Levels of Some Cardiovascular Risk Factors: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2003-2010. J Nutr Food Sci 2014, 4:1. https://www.omicsonline.org/chickpeas-and-hummus-are-associated-with-better-nutrient-intake-diet-quality-and-levels-of-some-cardiovascular-risk-factors-national-health-and-nutrition-examination-survey-2155-9600.1000254.pdf