If you’re looking to add a nutritious and easy-to-prepare snack to your culinary repertoire, Veggie Sticks and Hummus are the perfect choice. This classic combination offers a delightful crunch paired with the creamy richness of hummus, making it ideal for parties, lunch boxes, or a midday energy boost. Let me guide you through crafting this wholesome snack in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Hummus:
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
- ¼ cup tahini (sesame seed paste)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt, to taste
- Water, as needed for consistency
Optional garnishes:
- Paprika
- Olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped
For the Veggie Sticks:
- 2 carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
- 2 celery stalks, trimmed and cut into sticks
- 1 cucumber, sliced into sticks or rounds
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced into strips
- 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced into strips
- Cherry tomatoes
- Sugar snap peas
- Broccoli florets
- Cauliflower florets
Instructions
1. Prepare the Hummus
- Blend Ingredients: In a food processor or blender, combine the drained chickpeas, tahini, minced garlic, lemon juice, ground cumin, and a pinch of salt.
- Process Mixture: Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. While blending, slowly drizzle in the olive oil.
- Adjust Consistency: If the hummus is too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Taste and Season: Adjust seasoning by adding more salt or lemon juice if necessary.
- Plate and Garnish: Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle with paprika and chopped parsley if desired.
2. Prepare the Veggie Sticks
- Wash and Dry Vegetables: Thoroughly wash all the vegetables under running water. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Cut Vegetables:
- Carrots and Celery: Cut into sticks approximately 3-4 inches long.
- Cucumber: Slice into sticks or rounds, as preferred.
- Bell Peppers: Remove seeds and membranes, then slice into thin strips.
- Broccoli and Cauliflower: Cut into bite-sized florets.
- Arrange Vegetables: Place the prepared veggies on a large serving platter around the bowl of hummus.
3. Serve
- Optional Presentation: For individual servings, place hummus into small cups or bowls and provide a selection of veggie sticks with each.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, crisp vegetables with the creamy hummus.
Tips for Success
- Homemade vs. Store-Bought: While homemade hummus offers fresh flavor and control over ingredients, high-quality store-bought hummus is a convenient alternative.
- Hummus Variations:
- Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Add roasted red bell pepper to the blender for a sweet, smoky twist.
- Spicy Hummus: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Herbed Hummus: Blend in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for an aromatic flavor.
- Vegetable Alternatives: Feel free to include other vegetables like radishes, zucchini sticks, jicama, or asparagus spears.
- Preparing Ahead: Cut vegetables can be stored in the refrigerator in airtight containers for up to two days. Keep them fresh and crisp by storing in cold water.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair the veggie sticks and hummus with whole-grain pita bread, crackers, or pretzel sticks for added variety.
- Nutritional Boost: Sprinkle seeds like sesame, sunflower, or pumpkin seeds over the hummus for extra texture and nutrients.
Conclusion
By mastering Veggie Sticks and Hummus, you’re embracing a snack that’s both delicious and nourishing. This simple yet satisfying combination is perfect for boosting your daily intake of vegetables and plant-based protein. Share this healthy treat with family and friends, and enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures it brings to your table. Enjoy your wholesome creation!