If you are looking for a new festive dip to serve at your next holiday gathering, look no further. With its pretty red hue, and fresh green and red garnishes, this is the perfect holiday dip. It’s also simple to make, and delivers a bold flavor that is sure to impress.
If you have never made hummus at home before, tahini (or sesame paste), is a traditional ingredient, and it gives hummus its customary flavor. You can make the dip without it, but I really do recommend it. You can find it in most markets in the Indian or International foods section, and, it lasts just about forever when stored in the fridge. (I used up my last bottle recently after having it for 2 years. Once you have it on hand, high priced hummus can become a thing of the past!).
MAKES 7 SERVINGS
1 (15-ounce) can garbanzo beans
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons tahini
1/2 teaspoon cumin
¼ teaspoon salt
Pinch of cayenne pepper
1/3 cup roasted red peppers
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon minced garlic (~ 1 clove)
Sprig of fresh basil and 2 teaspoons chopped roasted red pepper (optional for garnish)
1. Reserve 2 tablespoons of garbanzo bean liquid and set aside. Drain and rinse the garbanzo beans. Shake off excess water and place the garbanzo beans, lemon juice, tahini, salt, and cayenne pepper in a food processor and process until coarsely smooth. Add the reserved bean liquid and the red pepper and process for 1 to 1 ½ minutes or until almost smooth.
2. Combine the olive oil and minced garlic in a small microwave-safe-cup or ramekin and cover with plastic wrap. Cook on high for 15 seconds. Remove, stir, and microwave another 15 seconds. Stream the garlic and oil into the food processor and continue to blend for an additional minute, or until very smooth (may add a teaspoon or two of water if needed).
3. Place the hummus in a bowl. Garnish with chopped red pepper and sprig of basil if desired., cover, and chill until served.
Nutrition Information Per Serving (3 tablespoons)
Calories 100 | Carbohydrate 11 g (Sugars 1 g) | Fat 5 gms (Sat 1 gm) | Protein 3 g | Fiber 3g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 120 mg
Food Exchanges: 1/2 Starch, 1 Fat | Carbohydrate Choices: 1/2
Weight Watcher Point Plus Comparison: 2 Smart Point: 1
