Spice Things Up with Creative Hummus Spreads
Hummus is one of those foods that most people enjoy and has a ton of great health benefits. Rich in protein, it can help you feel fuller longer. Chickpeas are the main ingredient in most hummus recipes, but sometimes you need to switch things up a bit — even if that means cutting the chickpeas and starting anew. These recipes have taken hummus to the next level, calling on everything from black beans to edamame, so you never get bored of the Mediterranean treat.
Matt Armendariz, 2013, Television Food Network, G.P. All Rights Reserved
Roasted Red Bell Pepper Hummus: It's definitely one of the most-loved flavors to pair with hummus, and this recipe makes it the star of the show. Guy Fieri calls for the roasted red peppers to be pureed in with the chickpeas and even adds in some chipotle pepper in adobo to kick the flavor up a few notches. It makes a great spread for sandwiches too.
White Bean and Roasted Eggplant Hummus: It's pretty easy to swap in a different bean in place of the garbanzos in hummus. This one relies on cannellini beans for its base and includes roasted eggplant for some extra texture and a big dose of flavor. The rest of the ingredients are very simple — olive oil, garlic, lemon juice and parsley — so it's a great dip for entertaining guests or yourself on a lazy Sunday afternoon.
Black Bean Hummus: This one is really great in place of (or in addition to) salsa on Mexican night. The recipe is about as simple as it gets, so you can add in your own favorite flavors to customize it. You could also serve this one hot and make it into a quick bean dip. Either way, it pairs nicely with a few margaritas.
Edamame Hummus: Who doesn't love edamame? The deliciously healthy treat is a favorite on appetizer menus across the globe. The green soybeans make the perfect base for a livened-up hummus and — with the addition of some great spices — can be a really unique dip. You'll want to really taste the flavors of this one, so make sure to serve it with something light like celery sticks or cucumbers.
Raymond Hom
Buffalo Wing Hummus: You know those times when you come across something that is so delicious, it's almost hard to believe it's not bad for you? Well, this buffalo-wing-inspired hummus will leave you feeling just that way. With a dash of barbecue sauce and a few splashes of hot sauce, it's the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Serve it with celery and carrots to enhance the buffalo-wing feel.