Roasted Cauliflower & Artichoke Hummus

by Marie Hemphill @mariehealthyhill

Looking for a unique take on traditional hummus? This roasted cauliflower and artichoke hummus recipe is not only delicious but also overflowing with nutrients that support from head to toe.

This hummus recipe is gluten-free, vegan, low-histamine and loaded with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Plus, it’s a fun way to incorporate more veggies into your diet while enjoying a tasty dip.  Bon appétit!

Ingredients:

Roasted Florets

• 2 cups raw cauliflower florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Hummus

• 3 tablespoons raw sesame seeds (or 2 tablespoons tahini)
• 1 cup Monterey Farms artichoke hearts, drained and chopped (or thawed frozen artichokes)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4- 1/3 cup olive oil (adjust to desired consistency)
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin (optional)
• Salt, to taste
• Paprika or chopped parsley, for garnish

Directions:

1. Roast the Cauliflower: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and tender.
2. Prepare the Sesame Seeds (optional): Lightly toast raw sesame seeds in a dry skillet until fragrant and golden.
3. Blend the Ingredients: In a food processor pulse blend roasted cauliflower, sesame seeds, artichokes, garlic, lemon juice, cumin until combined. Then on high slowly pour olive oil until smooth. Stop occasionally scraping edge. Adjust seasoning and consistency as needed.
4. Serve: Garnish with olive oil, paprika, or parsley. Enjoy with pita bread, fresh veggies, crackers or as a base for a salad bowl or layer of meatballs.

Health Benefits:

This roasted cauliflower and artichoke hummus isn't just a flavorful dip—it's supercharged with nutrients that are good for you:

• Cauliflower: A cruciferous vegetable, cauliflower is rich in fiber, which supports digestive health, and is packed with antioxidants that protect against chronic diseases. It’s also low in calories, making it a great option for weight management.
• Artichokes: Artichokes are a nutrient-dense superfood. They are high in antioxidants, particularly vitamin C and polyphenols, which help fight inflammation. Artichokes are also known for their liver-supporting properties and their ability to promote healthy digestion.
• Sesame Seeds: These tiny seeds are a fantastic source of healthy fats, particularly omega-6 fatty acids, and are rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron. They support heart health and help maintain healthy bones.
• Garlic: Garlic is well-known for its immune-boosting properties, thanks to its high content of sulfur compounds like allicin. It also helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Fun Facts:

• Artichokes are one of the oldest cultivated vegetables, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome. They were so highly prized that Greek and Roman nobles would pay top prices for them!
• Sesame seeds have been used for thousands of years, not just in cooking but also in traditional medicine. In ancient Egypt, they were ground into flour to make a type of bread.