Brighten your snack time with this vibrant Lemon Garlic Beet Hummus, a delicious twist on healthy beet recipes. This dip is incredibly easy to make and perfect for adding a pop of color and nutrition to any meal. You’ll love its creamy texture and zesty flavor.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Beets: Use pre-cooked or roast your own for deeper flavor.
- Chickpeas: Canned works best for convenience; rinse well.
- Tahini: Essential for classic hummus flavor; skip if you have a nut allergy, though the texture will change.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is always superior.
- Garlic: Fresh cloves are a must for bold flavor.
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances richness.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked beets, peeled and chopped (about 2 medium beets)
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from 1-2 lemons)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Pinch of black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (if using pre-cooked beets)
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 150 calories
- Tools Needed: Food processor
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Main Ingredients
Place the chopped cooked beets, rinsed chickpeas, tahini, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, ground cumin, salt, and pepper into your food processor. Ensure all ingredients are in the bowl.
2. Process Until Smooth
Secure the lid on your food processor. Blend the ingredients until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl a few times to ensure everything is incorporated.
3. Adjust Consistency and Seasoning
If your hummus is too thick, add a tablespoon of cold water at a time while blending until you reach your desired consistency. Taste the hummus and adjust the salt, lemon juice, or cumin if needed to suit your preference.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Transfer your vibrant Lemon Garlic Beet Hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of sesame seeds, if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite dippers.
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
- Herby Freshness: Blend in a handful of fresh parsley or cilantro.
- Smoky Flavor: A tiny bit of smoked paprika adds a wonderful depth.
- Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted pine nuts or chopped pistachios.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Lemon Garlic Beet Hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. The flavors tend to meld and deepen over time. Stir well before serving again.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can you use raw beets for this recipe?
No, you must use cooked beets. Raw beets are too hard and won’t blend into a smooth hummus.
- How do you cook beets for hummus?
You can boil, steam, or roast beets until fork-tender. Roasting often brings out a sweeter, deeper flavor.
- What can you serve with beet hummus?
It’s delicious with pita bread, vegetable sticks (carrots, cucumber, bell peppers), crackers, or as a spread in sandwiches and wraps.
- Is beet hummus good for you?
Absolutely! Beets are packed with nutrients, and chickpeas provide fiber and protein, making this a very healthy snack or appetizer. It’s a fantastic addition to your healthy beet recipes collection.
- Can you freeze beet hummus?
Yes, you can freeze hummus for up to 3-4 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and stir well before serving.
- What if you don’t have a food processor?
While a food processor is ideal, you can use a high-speed blender. You might need to add a bit more liquid to help it blend.