Tuesday, February 17, 2009

My Favorite Snacks


Some days I just don't feel like eating a full fledged meal. I'm more content to just consume small snacks throughout the day. Today is one of those days. I try to keep some staples on hand for days just like today. These snack ideas are also perfect for children as they don't contain the newsworthy red or yellow dyes or processed sugars.


Today I am craving Hummus-yes a wonderfully easy and healthy snack option for your household. For those not familiar with this Middle Eastern staple, chickpeas or garbanzo beans are the backbone of hummus. It has few ingredients and would be a great food for a child to participate in making. Hummus can be basic or you can infuse other wonderful flavors into it. It can be made with Tahini or without-let your taste buds decide which you prefer. Tahini is a sesame paste that can either be prepared at home or purchased at the grocery.


One of our favorites is Roasted Garlic Hummus. The following recipe has just six basic ingredients. Feel free to adjust the amounts for taste and consistency.


Roasted Garlic Hummus

Ingredients:

2- 15 oz. cans of chickpeas or garbonzo beans-rinsed and drained

1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

2 tablespoons roasted garlic

1/3 cup Tahini

2 tablespoons olive oil

salt to taste


Blend first four ingredients in food processor until fairly smooth. Slowly add olive oil. May use or more less depending on desired consistency. Add salt to taste.

Garnish with smoked paprika or fresh minced parsley. Serve with pita bread, pita chips or fresh vegetables.





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