Hummus is one of the smarter options for snacks and lunches, because it’s high in protein and low in calories. This riff on the classic adds more vegetables to lighten it up and makes it even healthier. Adding carrots gives it an orange tint and a little natural sweetness — and serving it in cucumber boats cuts out the carbs in the standard pita bread.
Carrot-White Bean Hummus in Cucumber Boats
Ingredients
- 1 cup (240 ml) sliced carrot
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 15 ounces (425g) canned navy beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup (120ml) tahini
- 1/4 cup (60ml), plus 1 tablespoon, fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 5 medium cucumbers
- 2 large green onions, chopped
Directions
Set up a steamer and steam the carrots and whole garlic cloves over simmering water for 5 minutes. Transfer to the bowl of a food processor. Add the navy beans and process, scraping down the sides, as needed, until completely smooth. Add the tahini, and process until smooth and well-mixed. Drizzle the lemon juice through the feed tube while the machine is running, then add the salt and paprika and mix. Scrape into a medium bowl. It will be thick; if desired, stir in a little water.
To serve, peel the cucumbers, then halve lengthwise. Using a small spoon, scrape out the seeds and pulp. Spoon 3 rounded tablespoons of hummus into the cavity of each cucumber, spreading evenly with the spoon. Place on a plate, and sprinkle with green onions. Serve immediately.
Serves: 6 | Serving Size: 1 cucumber halve + 3 tablespoons hummus
Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 234; Total Fat: 10g; Saturated Fat: 2g; Monounsaturated Fat: 0g; Cholesterol: 0g; Sodium: 290mg; Carbohydrate: 22g; Dietary Fiber: 8g; Sugar: 6g; Protein: 11g
