In the past weeks of early spring, we have been treated to fresh-from-the-garden lettuces. What a delightful difference it makes in salads! It is obvious that delicious lettuce is essential to a successful salad, but what is pleasing to the palate in a salad also makes a nice palette for spreads and dips. Crackers, bread, or chips usually get the honor of partnering with spreads and dips, but consider using a generous bed of chopped lettuce instead. During this quarter of Upping Your Game focusing on health and fitness, this healthy substitute may be an act of kindness the body will appreciate.
Here is a flavorful spread that is very tasty on a nice pile of fresh lettuce.
Gassho,
Rebecca
Orange Hummus
2 cans chickpeas (15 oz), rinsed and drained
(or 1 ¼ cups dry beans, soaked, and cooked)
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp ground coriander
½ tsp ground ginger
½ tsp dry mustard
½ tsp turmeric
½ tsp mild paprika
¾ cup orange juice
3 Tablespoons tahini
½ teaspoon salt
3 Tablespoons cider vinegar
3 medium cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon soy sauce
Pinch cayenne
Combine everything in a food processor and puree until smooth. Transfer to a bowl or a container with a lid, cover tightly, and chill.
Yields about 3 cups. Serves 8.