Crunchy Vegetable Sticks and Creamy Hummus Snack: A Healthy Delight for All Ages

Looking for a nutritious and satisfying snack that both toddlers and adults can enjoy? Look no further! This recipe for crunchy vegetable sticks with creamy hummus is a flavorful and wholesome option that will please taste buds of all ages.

Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, this snack is not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this delightful and nourishing treat.

Ingredients:

For the Vegetable Sticks:

• 2 large carrots, cut into sticks
• 2 medium cucumbers, cut into sticks
• 2 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced into sticks
• 1 celery stalk, cut into sticks

For the Hummus:

• 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Paprika or fresh herbs for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the vegetable sticks by cutting the carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, and celery into stick shapes. Set aside.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine the drained and rinsed chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic clove, extra virgin olive oil, ground cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy. If the hummus is too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of water to achieve the desired consistency.
4. Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or fresh herbs if desired.
5. Arrange the vegetable sticks around the hummus bowl or place them in a separate container for easy snacking.
6. Serve the crunchy vegetable sticks alongside the creamy hummus and enjoy!

Recipe Tips:

• For added variety, feel free to include other vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, radishes, or snap peas as part of your vegetable stick assortment.
• If you prefer a smoother hummus texture, you can peel the chickpeas before blending. This step is optional but can result in a creamier consistency.
• Experiment with different flavors by adding a pinch of smoked paprika, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds to the hummus.

Substitutions:

• If you don’t have tahini on hand, you can substitute it with an equal amount of natural peanut butter or almond butter for a different flavor profile.
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use bottled lemon juice if needed.

FAQs:

Q: Can I make the vegetable sticks and hummus ahead of time? A: Yes, both the vegetable sticks and hummus can be prepared in advance. Store the vegetable sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and keep the hummus refrigerated in a sealed container. They should stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

Q: Are there any alternatives to using chickpeas in the hummus? A: You can try using other legumes such as white beans or black beans as a base for the hummus. The flavor and texture may vary slightly, but it can still be delicious and nutritious.

Q: Can I adjust the seasonings in the hummus to my taste? A: Absolutely! Feel free to play around with the seasonings in the hummus recipe. Add more garlic for extra zest, or increase the amount of cumin for a bolder flavor.

Crunchy vegetable sticks paired with creamy hummus make for a delightful and nutritious snack that can be enjoyed by both toddlers and adults. With an array of colorful vegetables and a flavorful homemade hummus, this snack is not only visually appealing but also packed with essential nutrients. Whether it’s for a midday pick-me-up or a party appetizer, this combination will surely satisfy your cravings while keeping you on track with your health goals. So, gather your ingredients, chop those veggies, blend that hummus, and enjoy this wholesome snack that is sure to be a hit with everyone!