Have you ever found yourself craving a snack that’s not only tasty but also nourishing and easy to prepare? I know I have. That’s when I usually reach for my favorite recipe: Veggie Sticks with Dairy-Free Hummus. It’s like hitting a culinary jackpot – easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and packed with nutrients.
Now, you might be thinking, “Isn’t hummus usually made with dairy?”. Well, not this one. This hummus recipe is a game-changer, like a secret weapon in your healthy eating arsenal. It’s creamy, flavorful, and completely dairy-free. Intrigued? Let’s dive in.
The Importance of Healthy Snacking
It’s no secret that what we eat has a significant impact on our health and wellbeing. Not only does a balanced diet provide the essential nutrients our bodies need, but it also helps maintain our energy levels. In between meals, a healthy snack can help satiate hunger and provide a quick energy boost.
That’s where veggie sticks come in. They’re a great source of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Combine them with nutrient-rich hummus, and you’ve got a snack that’s not only satisfying but also packed with health benefits.
The Magic of Dairy-Free Hummus
Traditional hummus is made with chickpeas, tahini, oil, and, occasionally, dairy products. However, this recipe swaps out the dairy for ingredients like tahini and olive oil. The result? A creamy, rich, and flavorful hummus that’s perfect for dipping.
Believe it or not, dairy-free hummus isn’t just for those who have a lactose intolerance or choose to follow a dairy-free diet. It’s a delicious alternative that’s lower in saturated fats and cholesterol, making it a healthier choice for everyone.
Choosing the Perfect Veggies
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to choosing vegetables for your veggie sticks. You can use whatever veggies you have to hand or those you prefer. I often opt for carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, and celery for their crispy texture and refreshing taste.
While fresh veggies are ideal for this snack, don’t shy away from using leftover veggies from your fridge. They can be just as tasty and help reduce food waste, too. Just remember, the fresher the vegetables, the better the taste.
Ingredients
- 1 cup canned chickpeas
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt to taste
- Assorted fresh vegetables (carrots, cucumber, bell peppers, celery, etc.)
Instructions
- Rinse and drain the canned chickpeas.
- In a food processor, blend together the chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and salt until smooth and creamy.
- Wash and cut your vegetables into sticks.
- Serve the hummus with the veggie sticks and enjoy!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Tips for Veggie Sticks With Dairy-Free Hummus
To take your hummus to the next level, add a pinch of paprika or cumin before blending. You can also garnish it with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving. Remember, when cutting your veggies, try to keep them roughly the same size for even dipping and eating.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This recipe is a delicious and unique spin on a classic snack. The dairy-free hummus is creamy and full of flavor, perfectly complemented by the crisp, fresh veggies. It’s a quick and easy snack that’s both nutritious and satisfying, perfect for any time of the day.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 130mg
- Carbohydrate: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 7g