Hummus is a delightful, versatile dish that has found its way into many a kitchen and onto many a menu worldwide. A traditional Middle Eastern staple made primarily from chickpeas and tahini, hummus is not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber. While the classic version is a tried-and-true favorite, hummus also serves as a canvas for a multitude of flavor variations. One such twist is Cilantro Lime Hummus, a variant that marries the creamy texture of hummus with the fresh, zesty flavors of cilantro and lime.
Cilantro Lime Hummus: A Fresh Take
Cilantro Lime Hummus takes the classic hummus recipe and infuses it with the bright, herbaceous notes of cilantro and the tangy zest of lime. The result is a vibrant and refreshing dip, spread, or snack that brings a burst of flavor to your palate.
Recipe: Cilantro Lime Hummus
Here's a simple recipe to help you make your own Cilantro Lime Hummus at home:
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 ounces) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup well-stirred tahini
- 1 large garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt to taste
- 2 to 3 tablespoons water
- 1 cup cilantro leaves and stems, loosely packed
Instructions:
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Blend the tahini and lime juice: In a food processor, combine the tahini and lime juice and process for 1 minute. This extra time helps 'whip' or 'cream' the tahini, making the hummus smooth and creamy.
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Add additional ingredients: Add the olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, and a 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the whipped tahini and lime juice. Process for 30 seconds, scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl then process another 30 seconds.
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Blend in the chickpeas: Add half of the chickpeas to the food processor and process for 1 minute. Then, add the remaining chickpeas and process for 1 to 2 minutes, or until thick and quite smooth.
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Add water: Most likely the hummus will be too thick or still have tiny bits of chickpea. To fix this, with the food processor turned on, slowly add 2 to 3 tablespoons of water until you reach the perfect consistency.
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Blend in the cilantro: Add the cilantro to the hummus and process until it's fully incorporated and the hummus is smooth.
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Serve: Transfer the hummus to a bowl, drizzle with additional olive oil, and garnish with a few cilantro leaves. Serve with your favorite chips or veggie sticks, or use as a spread on sandwiches or wraps.
This Cilantro Lime Hummus is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Its vibrant flavor and creamy texture make it a versatile and delicious addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether used as a spread, a dip, or a standalone dish, this Cilantro Lime Hummus is sure to bring a refreshing zing to your table.
