Oil-Free Classic Hummus

I don't really like hummus...said no one ever!!!

I literally eat hummus every single day. Whether it be with veggies or crackers, spread on toast, in a salad, or with a veggie burger, I eat it. My obsession with hummus goes way back, but I would say it has definitely grown since adopting a plant-based lifestyle. One thing that people ask me constantly is where I get my protein from. I actually think that one of the biggest misconceptions people have, is that you can only get protein from animal sources. Which is totally false!

Some examples of plant-based protein sources are lentils, quinoa, oats, tofu, black beans, hemp seeds, nutritional yeast, almond butter, sunflower seeds, and of course chickpeas, just to name a few. Not only are these wonderful sources of protein, but they are also filled with tons of essential vitamins and minerals. 

So getting back to the hummus! The thing I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to make. Just five ingredients, plus a little water, and you are good to go. I also love the fact that there is absolutely no oil in it.

Although there are a few super healthy hummus brands out there, the majority of them have tons of added ingredients, like processed oils, that really aren't that good for us, nor are they needed. I think that point is definitely proven in this recipe because the hummus is just so darn tasty, without any oils added!

Like I mentioned, chickpeas have tons of protein making this hummus protein packed! Chickpeas are also a wonderful source of fiber, iron, calcium, folate, and magnesium. Also found in chickpeas is selenium. A mineral that is not present in most fruits and vegetables. It contains antioxidants that help prevent cells from damage, and detoxifies cancer-causing compounds in the body. Chickpeas also contain the phytochemical saponins, which prevent cancer cells from multiplying and spreading throughout the body.

So eat your chickpeas, folks!

Oil-Free Classic Hummus

Ingredients:
1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1/3 cup tahini
1/4 cup water, filtered
1/2 tsp salt
2 cloves garlic
juice of half a lemon

*I would say this hummus is neutropenic, however, you may want to consult your doctor about the lemon juice and garlic if you are currently following a strict neutropenic diet. You could always use garlic powder and maybe a tablespoon or two of apple cider vinegar instead. 

Instructions:

1. Rinse and drain chickpeas and place in a food processor. 

2. Add in the rest of the ingredients and blend until smooth. 

3. Store covered in the fridge for up to a week. Enjoy with veggies and crackers, on a sandwich, or a burger, in a salad, or with whole grain pita. This hummus is delicious every which way! 

I think the key to any diet (I prefer to call it a lifestyle) is balance and eating as many real, unprocessed, whole-foods as possible. I hope you all enjoy this hummus and enjoy it as part of your daily "lifestyle". 

xo Natalie