Super Easy Cilantro-Lime Hummus

Hummus and crackers is one of my all time favorite snacks. So, I am always trying to create new hummus flavors. My new favorite is this super easy & quick cilantro-lime hummus. This tastes great simply paired with crackers or try it as a spread inside your sandwich or wrap. Enjoy!

Ingredients:

• 1 15 oz. can of chickpeas, drained 
• juice of 1 lime
• 1 Tbsp of tahini
• 1 big handful of fresh cilantro leaves
• 1 Tbsp of olive oil
• 1 tsp of minced garlic
• desired amount of salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Place all of the ingredients into a food processor or blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Transfer the hummus into a sealable container and refrigerate until you are ready to serve.

Benefits of this recipe:

-Chickpeas help control blood sugar levels, improves digestion because of high fiber content, helps protect against heart disease, is a good source of protein, and contains many beneficial vitamins and minerals such as zinc, folate, phosphorus, and B vitamins.

-Cilantro detoxes the body of heavy metals, lowers blood sugar levels, prevents urinary tract infections, settle digestive upset, and supports healthy menstrual function.

The information on the benefits of the ingredients was researched from http://www.draxe.com

 

Beetroot Hummus

Why wouldn’t you want to eat pink hummus?! This amazing beetroot hummus is not only a gorgeous & vibrant pink color, but is also one of the tastiest and most nutritious snacks! This recipe is sweetened with a subtle hint of maple syrup and lemon and graced with the flavors of fresh rosemary and cumin. I recommend using this as a spread on fresh crackers or to dip your favorite vegetables in. Enjoy!

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup of steamed beets, chopped
• 1 15 oz can of chickpeas, drained
• 1/4 cup of olive oil
• 1 Tbsp of tahini
• 1/4 tsp of minced garlic
• juice of 1/2 a lemon
• salt and pepper
• 1 spring of rosemary, destemmed
• 1 tsp of cumin
• 2 tsp of maple syrup
• optional: top with sliced almonds as garnish

Instructions:

1. Put all of the ingredients in a food processor or high speed blender and pulse until smooth.
2. Store the hummus in an air-sealed container in the refrigerator.
3. When you are ready to serve, scoop the hummus into a bowl. Top with sliced almonds and fresh rosemary as garnish.

Benefits of this recipe:

-Chickpeas help control blood sugar levels, improves digestion because of high fiber content, helps protect against heart disease, is a good source of protein, and contains many beneficial vitamins and minerals such as zinc, folate, phosphorus, and B vitamins.

-Beets are high in antioxidants, contain anti-inflammatory properties, supports brain health, supports digestion, can improve athletic performance, and keeps blood pressure in check.

The benefits of these ingredients were researched from http://www.draxe.com

 

6 Delicious Vegan Side Dishes for Thanksgiving

Can you believe it? Thanksgiving is just a few days away! I am looking forward to making a delicious turkey-less feast for my family. Our annual vegan thanksgiving meal consists of seasonal vegetables, pumpkin flavored goodies, and traditional dishes with a plant-based twist. I have put together a list of my favorite recipes that would make great side dishes for your family’s thanksgiving meal. Enjoy!

Carmelized Beet & Sweet Potato Farro with Roasted Chickpeas

 

 

Classic Vegan Mashed Potatoes

 

 

Pumpkin Hummus

 

 

Honeycrisp Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts & Dates

 

 

Lemony Walnut-Pesto Brussel Sprouts

 

 

Wild Rice Stuffed Butternut Squash

Pumpkin Hummus

Are you having trouble finding the perfect appetizer to bring to your thanksgiving potluck? This pumpkin hummus is festive, wholesome, and delicious. Enjoy this tasty dip with some chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables.

Preparation + Cook time=  10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 can of chickpeas, drained
• 1 Tbsp of tahini
• 1 Tbsp of olive oil
• 1/2 cup of pureed pumpkin (from a can is fine!)
• 1 Tbsp of honey or maple syrup
• 1 Tbsp of fresh chopped sage
• 1 tsp of dried thyme
• 1/4 tsp of paprika
• 1/4 tsp of minced garlic
• juice of 1/2 a lemon
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: pumpkin seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Put all of the ingredients except for the pumpkin seeds in a food processor or high speed blender and pulse until smooth.
2. Store the hummus in an air-sealed container in the refrigerator.
3. When you are ready to serve, scoop the hummus into a bowl. Top with pumpkin seeds and a dash of paprika. Enjoy!

Benefits of this recipe:

-Pumpkin helps maintain healthy eyes, improves immunity, and is good for your complexion.

-Chickpeas help control blood sugar levels, improves digestion because of high fiber content, helps protect against heart disease, is a good source of protein, and contains many beneficial vitamins and minerals such as zinc, folate, phosphorus, and B vitamins.

The benefits of these ingredients were researched from http://www.draxe.com

 

Chocolate Dessert “Hummus”

Chocolate hummus is a great option for a healthy dessert. You can dip or spread anything you want with it! I would recommend dipping fresh fruit in it such as apples or strawberries, or snacks like pretzels and crackers. This would also be a delicious treat to put on a platter to bring to a party. Enjoy!

Preparation + Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 Can (15 oz) of Chickpeas, drained
• 3 Tbsp Coconut Oil, melted
• 2 Tbsp Almond Milk
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
• 5 Tbsp Honey or Maple Syrup
• 4 Tbsp Cacao Powder
• 1/2 tsp Cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp Himalayan Salt

Instructions:

1. In a food processor or high speed blender, simply blend all of the ingredients together. The consistency should be smooth like hummus.
2. Scoop the chocolate hummus into a small bowl. Optional: top with shredded coconut or cacao nibs for garnish.
3. If you are making this for guests, prepare a platter with chopped fruit, crackers, pretzels, etc. for dipping.

Health benefits of this recipe:

-Chickpeas help control blood sugar levels, improves digestion because of high fiber content, helps protect against heart disease, is a good source of protein, and contains many beneficial vitamins and minerals such as zinc, folate, phosphorus, and B vitamins.

-Cacao can improve stress levels, cholesterol, and heart health.

The information on the benefits of the ingredients was researched from http://www.draxe.com