Hummus becomes kitchen hit

In the world of dining hall cuisine, healthy food options are broadened every year to accommodate those who seek more nutritious and appetizing selections. Whether attempting to avoid gaining the "freshman 15," or simply to fit the needs of a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle, hummus is a healthy and flavorful dish that can be found on campus, or easily made in your dorm or apartment. This inexpensive dish makes a wonderful appetizer or snack when combined traditionally with pita bread, chips or fresh vegetables and also is excellent prepared in a wrap.

"Many versions of hummus have existed for thousands and thousands of years," according to the popular organic food company Mediterranean Delights. Hummus is an Arabic and Greek food commonly found in the Middle East, the Mediterranean and India and has become increasingly popular in the United States over the years. The word hummus appropriately means "chickpea" in Arabic, as chickpeas are the main ingredient in the dish.

One of the most delicious aspects of hummus is that it is deceivingly healthy. The high fiber content of chickpeas aids in lowering cholesterol, while also preventing blood sugar levels from increasing too quickly after eating, according to The George Mateljan Foundation for the World’s Healthiest Foods.

Such research makes it apparent that not only is hummus delicious, but it is healthy as well. So, eat up and enjoy without a guilty conscience!

Plain Hummus

1 can chickpeas, drained
1 tablespoon tahini paste
1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
1/3 cup chopped onion
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/4 teaspoon red pepper
1/2 teaspoon cumin

Salt to taste Puree all ingredients in a food processor or blender and mix until a smooth paste forms. If the hummus spread is too dry, add a little olive oil to get the desired consistency. Use hummus as a dip for fresh vegetables, chips, pita bread or use as a spread. Keep refrigerated.

Sundried Tomato and Basil Hummus

1 can chickpeas, drained
4 to 5 sundried tomatoes
1 tablespoon tahini paste
1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
1/3 cup chopped onion
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon cumin

Salt and pepper to tastePuree all ingredients in a food processor or blender and mix until a smooth paste forms. If the hummus spread is too dry, add a little olive oil to get the desired consistency. Use hummus as a dip for fresh vegetables, chips, pita bread or use as a spread. Keep refrigerated.