By: Jillian Randall

Hummus is a healthy snack to be enjoyed at any time! Hummus is packed with essential nutrients and contains a hearty serving of protein and fiber. The olive oil used in hummus is a great source of omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, vitamin E and healthy monounsaturated fat. Hummus is easy to make, just throw all the ingredients together into a food processor or blender and run until smooth. Tahini is sesame seed paste, which helps hummus maintain its smooth texture, but can be conveniently replaced with peanut butter or left out entirely in a pinch. The simplicity of hummus allows you to be creative and come up your own unique recipes! Here are a few recipes to make basic hummus with a little edge. I like to serve hummus with vegetables or a whole grain pita bread or chip.

Jalapeno and Garlic Hummus

 2 tbsp lemon juice

 ¼ cup water

 1 tbsp tahini

 1 tbsp olive oil

 1 15-oz can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed

 3 garlic cloves, peeled, minced

 ½ tsp salt

 ¼ tsp cumin

 dash of cayenne

 1 jalapeno pepper, chopped

Spicy Black Bean Hummus

 1 peeled clove garlic

 1 jalapeno pepper, chopped

 1 15-oz can black beans, drained and rinsed

 1 tbsp tahini

 2 tbsp lemon juice

 1 tbsp olive oil

 salt and pepper to taste

Buffalo Hummus

 1 15-oz can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed

 2 tbsp water

 1 tbsp tahini

 ¼ cup buffalo/hot sauce ( I recommend Frank’s)

 ½ tsp paprika

 1 tbsp olive oil

 2 tbsp lemon juice

 salt and pepper, to taste