3 Pepper Hummus

After Thanksgiving last week, the holiday season is in full force now, complete with all it's delicious treats, and sycophantic Black Friday enthusiasts with their cans of pepper spray... 

 While I would much rather have a staring contest with my vacuum cleaner than go into a retail outlet this time of year, I sure do love holiday baking.  I  am rearing and ready to pull out my favorite recipes, as well as learn some new ones to share.

But first, in this interim time  between the big turkey feast and the feeding frenzy that is the holiday parties and gatherings leading up to Christmas, I like to revisit some healthy options to keep around the buffet table.  Having healthy snacks within reach can keep you from eating your weight in cookies in one sitting, (which we all want to do, let's be honest!)  But unless your New Year's resolution is going to be buying a bunch of pants with elastic waistbands, it's best to practice a shred of self control.

 Here is a recipe for my favorite 3 pepper hummus , and it can be served with any veggies or crackers. It's spicy, garlicky,  and pretty darn delicious all around, and it's always a great addition to any gathering. 

It also only  takes a whopping 5 minutes to throw together, which is always a plus!

 I always like to serve a bunch of fresh veggies to counteract the sugary treats and wine at any gathering I throw, and this is more healthy and inspired than a big bowl of ranch dressing.

3-Pepper Hummus

-2 cups cooked chickpeas, drained

-2 cloves garlic

-2 T. lemon juice

-1/3 cup tahini 

-1 t. salt

-1 t. cayenne pepper

-1/2 jalapeno, seeded ( seeds may be left in for extra bite)

-1/2 cup roasted red peppers ( can be found canned in most grocery stores)

- 5 dashes of Frank's Red Hot or other hot sauce

-2 tablespoons water

Directions: Place all ingredients in food processor and process until combined to the consistency you prefer. Serve with crackers, fresh veggies or on toast.

Take that taste buds! 

I love this hummus on cucumbers because the cool taste of the cuke soothes the spicy butt-kicking effect of the plethora of peppers. 

It goes really well on a crunchy rye cracker too!

This hummus isn't for the stereotypical Minnesotan palate favorites of Ranch dressing and salt, it is pretty heated. You can tone it down by cutting the cayenne in half and skipping the jalapeno, but I think it's a lot more fun hot. Just a suggestion for ways to add some healthy flair to your holidays. Not to worry, I'm going to start sharing a bunch of great holiday baking recipes soon too!