Beet Hummus for Spring

Spring is here. The longer, warmer days are inviting me to work in my garden. The hardy plants I planted in the cool, early season are nearly ready to harvest. Beets and tender greens are among my favorite early crops to enjoy. Beets come in a variety of vibrant colors that will brighten any table this time of year. In the plant world, color is associated with powerful phytonutrients that benefit our health. Beets in particular have fiber and nutrients that can help improve blood pressure, prevent cancer and fight inflammation.

Enjoy them alone, or with a drizzle of your favorite balsamic vinegar, or try them as a stunning addition in the hummus recipe below.

Beet Hummus

Hummus is an amazing nutritious and versatile dish. Chickpeas are a great source of protein and fiber while the tahini (sesame seed paste) provides calcium and other minerals. In this variation on the classic hummus, the beets add a sweet hint and pack a powerful anti-oxidant punch. I love to serve this dip with a platter of colorful vegetables.

Author: Erica Leazenby, MD

Time: 15 minutes

4-6 small roasted beets (about 1 can rinsed and well drained)

1 can cooked chickpeas, drained and rinsed*

1 lemon, zest and juice

1/4 cup Tahini plus more to taste

1 large garlic clove

1/2 tsp sea salt plus more to taste

pepper to taste

olive oil to desired consistency (I use approximately 1 Tablespoon)

1. Roughly chop the beets and place them in the food processor.

2. Add all remaining ingredients to the machine with the exception of the olive oil. Allow the machine to run until the mixture is a smooth consistency. This may take several minutes. Stop the mixing occasionally to reincorporate any hummus that is clinging to the edge of the bowl. After the mixture is starting to become smooth, drizzle the olive oil into the food processor while it is running until the desired consistency is reached.

3. Enjoy with veggies, whole wheat pita or gluten-free crackers.

*If you have plenty of time, peeling each chickpea will result in a smoother hummus.