Zesty Lemon Carrot Hummus
This delightful Zesty Lemon Carrot Hummus is a fresh twist on classic dips, combining the natural sweetness of carrots with the bright acidity of lemon and the warm, earthy notes of cumin. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a healthy snack, this recipe is a breeze to assemble, requiring just three key ingredients. Enjoy it with pita, crackers, or fresh veggies for a nourishing treat. The vibrant color and irresistible flavor will impress your guests while ensuring you have a nutritious option on hand. Ideal for when baby carrots are in season, this dish can be made effortlessly while doubling as a Middle Eastern-inspired delight. Whether you choose to boil or roast your carrots, you'll have a creamy and zesty dip that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
N/A
Servings
63
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Carrots
6 (peeled, cut into chunks (or 12 baby carrots, unpeeled))
Lemon
1/2 (juice of)
Cumin seeds
1/4 cup (toasted, for sprinkling)
Salt
to taste (for seasoning)
Fresh ground pepper
to taste (for seasoning)
Instructions
1
If you're using baby carrots, rinse them lightly; otherwise, peel and cut larger carrots into chunks.
2
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
3
Add the carrots and cook for 15 minutes or until they are fork-tender. Alternatively, if you prefer roasting, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Toss the carrot chunks with a little olive oil, season with salt, and roast for about 40 minutes until soft and slightly caramelized.
4
Once the carrots are cooked, drain and allow them to cool slightly before placing them in a blender or food processor.
5
Add the fresh lemon juice to the blender with the carrots.
6
Blend until smooth and creamy, adding more lemon juice if needed for flavor and consistency.
7
Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
8
Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl and sprinkle generously with toasted cumin seeds before serving.
Nutrition Information
1.25g
Fat
12.5g
Carbs
1.25g
Protein
3.75g
Fiber
2.5g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Lemon Carrot Hummus?
It is a vibrant and healthy dip that puts a fresh twist on traditional hummus by using cooked carrots, bright lemon juice, and toasted cumin instead of chickpeas.
Is this carrot hummus recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it contains only plant-based ingredients like carrots, lemon, and spices.
Is Zesty Lemon Carrot Hummus gluten-free?
Yes, the dip itself is gluten-free, making it a safe option for those with gluten sensitivities.
How many main ingredients are required for this recipe?
The recipe focuses on three key ingredients: carrots, lemon, and cumin seeds, supplemented by basic seasonings like salt and pepper.
Can I use baby carrots for this hummus?
Yes, you can use approximately 12 baby carrots in place of 6 large carrots.
Do I need to peel the carrots?
If you are using large carrots, you should peel and cut them into chunks. If using baby carrots, a light rinse is sufficient and peeling is not required.
What are the two ways to cook the carrots for this dip?
You can either boil the carrots in salted water for 15 minutes or roast them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 40 minutes.
How long does it take to boil the carrots?
It takes approximately 15 minutes of boiling in salted water until the carrots are fork-tender.
What temperature is needed for roasting the carrots?
The oven should be preheated to 180°C or 350°F for roasting.
How long should carrots roast in the oven?
Carrots should be roasted for about 40 minutes until they are soft and slightly caramelized.
Should I use oil when roasting the carrots?
Yes, if roasting, toss the carrot chunks with a little olive oil and season with salt before placing them in the oven.
What equipment do I need to make the hummus smooth?
You can use either a blender or a food processor to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
How much lemon juice should I add?
The recipe calls for the juice of 1/2 a lemon, but you can add more if needed to reach your desired flavor and consistency.
When should I add the cumin seeds?
The toasted cumin seeds should be sprinkled generously over the hummus once it has been transferred to a serving bowl.
Do the cumin seeds need to be toasted?
Yes, toasting the cumin seeds is recommended as it brings out their warm, earthy notes.
How many calories are in a serving of this carrot hummus?
There are approximately 63 calories per serving.
What is the fat content of this recipe?
This recipe is low in fat, containing only 1.25g per serving.
Is this hummus high in fiber?
Yes, it provides a good amount of fiber with 3.75g per serving.
How much protein is in the Zesty Lemon Carrot Hummus?
Each serving contains approximately 1.25g of protein.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 12.5g of carbohydrates per serving.
What can I serve with this carrot dip?
It is perfect when served with pita bread, crackers, or fresh raw vegetables.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dip and let it cool, storing it in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.
Is this recipe suitable for children or babies?
Yes, the naturally sweet carrots and smooth texture make it a nutritious and kid-friendly snack.
What gives this hummus its Middle Eastern inspiration?
The combination of earthy cumin, bright lemon, and a creamy vegetable base reflects classic Middle Eastern flavor profiles.
How should I season the hummus?
Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to your personal taste after blending the carrots and lemon.
What is the primary flavor profile of this dish?
The flavor profile is a mix of natural carrot sweetness, bright citrus acidity, and warm, earthy spice.
Can I use ground cumin instead of seeds?
While toasted seeds provide a nice texture and punch of flavor, you can use a pinch of ground cumin if seeds are unavailable.
How many large carrots are needed?
The recipe requires 6 large carrots.
Is there any cholesterol in this recipe?
No, this recipe contains zero cholesterol.
What makes this hummus different from traditional hummus?
Traditional hummus uses chickpeas and tahini; this version swaps those for a carrot base, making it lighter and more colorful.