Yes, there’s ranch and guacamole, but from where I come from, I believe hummus is the greatest of dips. Sure, you can even eat it all by its lonesome with a spoon. However, it’s the perfect sauce for a wide gamut of foods, from pretzels, carrots, crunchy vegetables like celery sticks, carrots, and of course, pita chips.
Although it may be simple in its design, it makes an incredible number of dishes taste better. Hummus is also extremely healthy, as it’s packed with healthy fats, protein, and calcium. Furthermore, it is proven to aid in losing weight.
Sandwich or Bread Spread
Whether using it to dip your favorite chewy and crispy bread, or as an alternative to mustard or mayo in sandwiches, hummus never disappoints. Its creamy, smooth, and flavorful texture enhance the taste of any sandwich.
Pita Chips
Perhaps the most famous side to go with this delicious spread, pita chips add the Mediterranean element to your dish, with perfect crunch and thickness.
Mashed Potatoes
While mashed potatoes are luscious on their own, it makes them quite sinful as well. Lessen the guilt by mixing hummus into the recipe instead of the more common sour cream. This allows for a decadent and creamy flavor without the added calories.
Deviled Eggs
On their own, deviled eggs are to die for. However, the fillings aren’t ideal for one’s health. If you still need that all-important decadent flavor, replace mayonnaise with hummus. Simply boil the eggs, remove them from the yolk, and mix with hummus. Scoop it back into the whites and be ready to serve immediately.
Veggies
Vegetables are another perfect snack to dip with hummus. The best part? It’s a completely healthy snack, especially considering that the vegetables themselves can be dipped without having to cook them at all to achieve delicious flavor. Make sure they’re crunchy, but feel free to add carrots, broccoli, snap peas, jicama, cucumbers, celery, cauliflower, peppers, and radishes for a lovely gamut of options.
Crunchy Snacks
Outside of vegetables, there are many crunchy snacks that work well with hummus. Consider dipping tortilla chips, bagel chips, pretzels, sun chips, and rice crackers into your flavorful mix to be addicted instantly.
Falafel
For those unaware, both hummus and falafel are composed of chickpeas. Therefore, it only makes sense that they make for a splendid pair. Combining these crispy, crusted fried balls with the fresh hummus is a match made in heaven.
Salad
Hummus has all the creamy consistencies needed for salad dressing. Why not use it like such? Instead of the usual oil dressings, caesar, or vinaigrette, replace the topping of your salad with 2 easy tablespoons of hummus for a delicious meal.
Nuts and Fruits
Aside from vegetables, fruits can take on a whole new meaning when dipped into a batter of hummus. Crunchy and sweet fruits, like pears and apples, are both great options for it. Try this and be surprised by just how tasty the combination is!
Did you know that there actually exists chocolate hummus dip? It’s available in a large number of stores, but like everything else mentioned in this list, you can create your own homemade solution. Combine the chickpeas with maple syrup, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and tahini. Consider dipping a pile of fresh strawberries in the mix to have your mind blown.
In the event that you desire a more nutty or earthy combo, try using nuts. Almonds and cashews taste phenomenal on their own, but then dipped in hummus, they’re something else. Moreover, they are loaded with minerals and vitamins to help you power through the day.
Pasta Sauce
The creamy texture of hummus makes it perfect for dressings and sauces alike. Outside of salad, it actually works well for many as a pasta sauce.
Pizza Sauce
Virtually all Italian dishes have sauce involved somewhere. For a twist on the Mediterranean side, try including the hummus on pizza dough, and top with feta cheese, pickled peppers, and olives. What this allows for is an out-of-this-world concoction that has many nutritional benefits and flavors.
Brownies
It may seem strange on paper, but the inclusion of a touch of hummus rather than solid shortening to a brownie mixture helps maintain moisture in this beloved pastry. It’s also a much healthier alternative that provides a wonderful texture for the brownies.
Avocados
Want a nutritious yet irresistibly decadent, and rich snack? These are packed with healthy nutrients and fats, but can be taken to a whole new level when paired with hummus. Cut the avocados in half, scoop the pit out, and top with black olives, hummus, tomatoes, and any other topping you may desire. This results in a tasty and happy treat.
Soup
Want that bowl of soup to have added creaminess and thickness? Include several spoonfuls of hummus to your favorite stock or both. For example, consider a sweet potato soup with hummus. Top it with some Greek yogurt to truly brighten the flavor.
Marinade
If this list has proven anything, it’s that hummus is an amazingly versatile dip. But it gets even better. Aside from existing as a spread, dip, thickener, and sauce, hummus can be used like a marinade. Use it to flavor your favorite veggies and protein to produce an unforgettable meal. It’s as simple as can be, brush the hummus onto some fish, vegetables, or chicken prior to cooking.