Have you ever found yourself craving a crunchy snack but also wanting to keep it healthy and budget-friendly? Let me introduce you to my delightful recipe for Cheap Veggie Chips with Hummus! This tasty combo has been a lifesaver during my late-night binge sessions or lazy Saturday movie marathons. Not only does it satisfy my crunchy cravings, but it also reminds me of those sunny afternoons spent in my grandma’s garden, where she would whip up the freshest veggie dips.
These veggie chips are super easy to make and can be customized with whatever seasonal vegetables you have lying around! Pair them with a creamy homemade hummus, and you’ve got yourself a snack that is both delicious and guilt-free. Let’s dive into this recipe together!
What’s in Cheap Veggie Chips with Hummus?
Zucchini: I love using zucchini because it crisps up beautifully in the oven. Plus, it’s low in calories and high in water content, perfect for snacking!
Carrots: Sweet and colorful, carrots are not only great for your vision but add some wonderful flavor and crunch to the chips.
Sweet Potatoes: These are a game-changer! They bring a hint of sweetness to the mix and provide extra fiber and antioxidants.
Olive Oil: It helps crisp up the veggies and provides heart-healthy fats. I usually go for a good quality extra virgin olive oil.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring everything together. Feel free to get adventurous with your spice choices if you’re feeling wild!
Chickpeas: The star ingredient for the hummus! These little legumes are rich in protein and fiber, making your snack even more filling.
Tahini: It adds a creamy texture and earthy flavor to the hummus. If you can, splurge on a high-quality brand; the flavor difference is worth it!
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a zesty zip that brightens up the hummus, making it irresistible.
Is Cheap Veggie Chips with Hummus Good for You?
Absolutely! This snack is not just a crunchy delight but also packed with nutrition:
– **Zucchini** and **Carrots** are low in calories and high in vitamins, making them perfect for guilt-free munching.
– **Sweet Potatoes** are rich in vitamins A and C, which support your immune system, and they’re full of fiber to keep you full.
– **Chickpeas** are a plant-based protein powerhouse and come with a healthy dose of fiber, great for digestion.
However, while it’s healthy, don’t go overboard on the olive oil if you’re watching your fat intake — a little goes a long way!
Ingredients List
– 1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 medium sweet potato, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Water, as needed for consistency
*Servings: This recipe makes about 4 servings of veggie chips and hummus.*
How to Make Cheap Veggie Chips with Hummus?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, toss the sliced zucchini, carrots, and sweet potato with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the veggie slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets. Make sure they’re not overcrowded; we want them to bake, not steam!
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re crispy and golden. Keep an eye on them; no one likes burnt chips!
5. While the veggies are baking, let’s make the hummus! In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Process until smooth, adding water a tablespoon at a time until your desired consistency is reached.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. You might find a bit more lemon or salt really brings it to life!
7. Once your veggie chips are done, let them cool down a bit and serve them with the creamy hummus.
Crunchy Tips & Variations
Feel free to get creative here! There are so many variations you can play around with:
– **Spices:** Try adding paprika, garlic powder, or even nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
– **Vegetables:** Don’t just stop at zucchini and carrots; you can use kale, beets, or even eggplant!
– **Hummus Flavors:** Try adding roasted garlic, red pepper flakes, or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to your hummus for an extra twist.
Now that you have this simple yet delightful recipe, I encourage you to give it a shot! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you, and who doesn’t love a snack that feels a bit fancy without the fussy prep?
I’d love to hear how your Cheap Veggie Chips and Hummus turn out, so be sure to share your experience! Happy snacking!