If you love delicious, healthy snacks, you’re in for a treat! Today, I’ll show you how to make High-Protein Edamame Hummus and Pita Delight. This tasty recipe packs a protein punch and is perfect for dipping or spreading. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to whip up this nutritious dish. Let’s dive in and explore the steps, ingredients, and tips to make your hummus shine!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Edamame Hummus
To make this tasty hummus, gather these key items:
– 1 cup shelled edamame (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water (or more for desired consistency)
These ingredients create a creamy, protein-rich hummus. Edamame is packed with nutrients and gives this dip its bright green color. Tahini adds a nutty flavor, while lemon juice gives it a fresh zing.
Ingredients for Pita Serving
For the pita, you will need:
– 4 whole wheat pita breads, cut into triangles
These pita breads are perfect for dipping. Their whole grain nature also makes them a healthier choice.
Optional Ingredients for Flavor Boost
To spice things up, consider adding:
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
– Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
The parsley adds color and freshness. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top of your hummus. This adds an exciting twist to your dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Edamame
First, if you have frozen edamame, steam it. Follow the package steps. This takes about 3 to 5 minutes. If you use fresh edamame, remove the pods and rinse them well. The edamame should be tender and bright green. This gives the hummus a fresh taste.
Blending the Ingredients
Next, grab a food processor. Add the steamed edamame, tahini, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Blend these together. As you blend, slowly add water. Keep blending until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You can add more water if you want a thinner texture. After blending, taste the hummus. Adjust the salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed for your taste.
Serving the Hummus with Pita
Now it’s time to serve! Transfer the hummus to a bowl. Drizzle some olive oil on top for extra flavor. If you like a little spice, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the hummus. For the pita, you can serve it cold or warm. To warm it, pop the pita in a toaster or oven until it’s lightly crisp. Cut the pita into triangles and arrange them around the bowl of hummus. Finish by garnishing with fresh parsley. Enjoy this tasty, high-protein snack!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Hummus Consistency
To make smooth hummus, start with cooked edamame. I love using fresh or frozen. If frozen, steam it first. You want it soft but not mushy. In the food processor, mix edamame with tahini, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Blend while adding water. Use a little at a time. Keep blending until you reach the smoothness you want. If it’s too thick, add more water. If it’s too runny, you can add more edamame.
Best Practices for Pita Serving
Pita bread is best served warm. You can toast it for a crispier bite. Cut the pita into triangles for easy dipping. Arrange the triangles around your hummus. This way, guests can grab them easily. If you want, serve it with a side of fresh veggies for more crunch.
Flavor Enhancements to Consider
To make your hummus pop, think about adding spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes gives heat. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can add freshness. You could also try roasted garlic for a sweeter taste. For a nutty twist, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top. These simple tweaks can elevate your dish!
Nutritional Information
Protein Content and Health Benefits
High-protein edamame hummus packs a punch. Each serving provides about 7-8 grams of protein. Edamame comes from young soybeans, which are rich in protein. This makes the hummus a great snack for anyone wanting to add more protein to their diet. Protein helps build muscles and keeps you feeling full. It also plays a key role in your body’s repair process. Adding this hummus to your meals can help with weight management and muscle growth.
Macronutrient Breakdown
In addition to protein, edamame hummus is balanced in fats and carbs. Each serving has around 10 grams of healthy fats, mainly from olive oil and tahini. These fats support heart health and provide energy. The carbs in this hummus mainly come from edamame and whole wheat pita. They offer a good source of energy while being high in fiber. This fiber helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
Vitamins and Minerals in Edamame Hummus
Edamame hummus is not only tasty but also nutrient-rich. It contains several important vitamins and minerals:
– Vitamin K: Supports bone health.
– Folate: Important for cell growth and metabolism.
– Iron: Essential for transporting oxygen in the blood.
– Magnesium: Helps with muscle and nerve function.
These nutrients make this hummus a smart choice for anyone looking to eat healthy. Enjoy it as a snack or part of a meal for a boost of goodness.
Variations
Spicy Edamame Hummus Options
Want a kick? Add red pepper flakes to your hummus. This spice brings heat and flavor. Start with 1/4 teaspoon and taste. You can always add more! For a bolder spice, blend in a dash of hot sauce. This gives a nice zing.
Edamame Hummus with Different Herbs
Herbs can change the taste of your hummus. Try fresh basil for a sweet, fresh flavor. Cilantro adds a bright twist. You can also use dill for a unique taste. Simply add one handful of your chosen herb to the blender. It makes a big difference!
Alternative Serving Suggestions
Pita is great, but you have options! Serve with veggie sticks for a crunchy bite. Carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers work well. You can also try whole grain crackers for a different crunch. For a fun twist, spread hummus on sandwiches. This adds protein and flavor to your meal.
FAQs
Can I use frozen edamame for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen edamame. Just steam it for about 3 to 5 minutes. This makes it tender and easy to blend. I often use frozen edamame for its convenience. It saves time and still tastes great.
How long can I store edamame hummus?
You can store edamame hummus in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to three months. Just thaw it before serving and give it a quick stir.
What are the best dishes to serve with edamame hummus?
The best dishes to serve with edamame hummus include whole wheat pita bread, fresh veggies, or crackers. You can also pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a hearty meal. This hummus goes well with almost anything!
Edamame hummus is simple to make and packed with nutrients. We covered the main and optional ingredients that create rich flavors. I shared helpful steps to prepare, blend, and serve your hummus with pita. Tips on achieving perfect consistency and enhancing flavor were included. Plus, we explored different variations and answered common questions. This dish is a healthy snack option that everyone will enjoy. Try it out and have fun experimenting with your own flavors!
