Hummus

Recipe contributed by: Dhara Balwa

Hummus is a very popular dip, spread and side in various Mediterranean dishes. We always used to buy it from stores whenever I cooked Mediterranean food or to serve with appetizers. A few days back I was going through the different hummus recipes and realized it is very easy to make it at home with basic ingredients. I soon got a chance to try it when I made a Sudanese meal of Fava Beans and Falafel and needed a dip to serve with it. Just look at the texture in the picture below. It's perfect and it tasted right! Another addition in the meal free of added flavors and all the preservatives listed in the store-bought hummus.

Photo by Dhara Balwa

Serves: 4
Prep time: 15 min plus soak time for chickpeas Cook time: 15 min (for chickpeas)
Difficulty level: Easy

Guacamole

Recipe contributed by: Dhara Balwa

Avocadoes are a regular buy for us majorly for one thing: Guacamole. I love the texture and the flavor. There really isn't much to say about this Mexican dip that is commonly served as an appetizer with chips and as one of the condiments in Mexican restaurants. Just Enjoy!



Photo by Dhara Balwa

Serves: 6
Prep Time: 15-20 min
Difficulty level: Easy

Tzatziki (Greek yogurt and cucumber mix)

Recipe contributed by: Dhara Balwa

With summer here, Indian raita/ Chhas is such a refreshing and cool addition in the meal. Tzatziki is very similar to Cucumber Raita. It is served as a dip with pita bread/ chips or flat bread. I like most versions of it. But it amazes me how something healthy can be turned into unhealthy! If you go to buy Tzatziki in grocery stores and read the nutrition label, you will see lot of oil, preservatives and flavor enhancers that just doesn't feel right. And it is easy to make the healthy version with basic ingredients from your kitchen. I tried it and tastes soooo good! Add it to your menu of dips for your chips or appetizers. It can be prepared in advance or add it as a protein source in your regular meals. You can also use it as spread on your toast or in a sandwich just like the one I made called Grilled Vegetables Flat Bread Sandwich.

Photo by Dhara Balwa

Makes: 2 1/2 cups
Prep time: 2 hours for straining plus 5 min
Difficulty level: Easy