Springing into Summer: Cilantro-Lime Hummus

With the arrival of spring comes an insatiable itch for summertime. Cabin fever is running high and it’s time for a change. Out with the old and in with the new - and that includes food choices too. What better way to meet this summertime craving than with a healthy and zesty cilantro-lime hummus dip?

Hummus is made from ground-up chickpeas (also known as garbanzo beans). Beans are a unique food - considered by MyPlate guidelines as both a vegetable and protein due to their rich vitamin and mineral content. Chickpeas specifically are an excellent source of folate and fiber, making hummus an outstanding choice for snacking. It's a great replacement for fatty condiments, dips, or dressings - and a much tastier one at that! 

Hummus first became a staple in my diet as a teenager when Costco brought the giant tubs to their inventory; clearly indicating my mom would have to try out the new item. My family fell in love and it's been in our fridge ever since.

When I went away to college, however, I realized hummus was fairly pricy for the amounts I was consuming on a daily basis. I sadly went without for a period of time before realizing that making my own hummus was quick, easy, and much more affordable! Now I am back to my hummus groove, adding it to just about everything I eat: vegetables, pretzels, sandwiches, pizza, pasta, etc.

I hope you’ll enjoy this recipe as much as I do!

For a 30 second demonstration on how to make this zesty cilantro-lime hummus, watch the video below. The written recipe is posted beneath :)

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Cilantro-Lime Hummus

1 16 oz can chickpeas (garbanzo beans)

2 TBSP + 2 tsp tahini paste

*Tahini is often found in the peanut butter section of the grocery store. It's made up of ground up sesame seeds. The jar may seem expensive, but will last for multiple batches of hummus, bringing the cost of each batch much lower than the pre-made packaged hummus at the store.

2 TBSP + 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil

2 cloves of garlic

1/2 tsp salt

1/8 tsp cumin

Juice of 1 lime

3/4 cup cilantro

1/4 cup water (as needed)

Pulse together in a food processor/blender until smooth. Enjoy!