After-school snacks offer an opportunity to add important nutrients to a child’s diet and also to curb appetites until the dinner bell rings. Peanut butter anoints hummus with a kid-approved flavour profile (and some extra protein) making this healthy dip something that little legs will run home for. Possible dippers include apple wedges, baby carrots, sliced red pepper, celery, and baked tortilla chips. It can also be spread on brown rice cakes.
Allow your under-aged helpers to place all of the ingredients in a food processor container and then, when secured, hit the go button.
Soaking and simmering chickpeas with some baking soda encourages the legumes to break down during cooking, making for a creamier dip.
Per serving:
Cover chickpeas and 1/2 tsp (2 mL) baking soda with 2 in (5 cm) water and soak overnight. Drain chickpeas and place in saucepan with 1/2 tsp (2 mL) baking soda and enough water to cover by 2 in (5 cm). Simmer until chickpeas are very tender, about 25 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup (125 mL) soaking liquid, drain, and set chickpeas aside to cool.
In food processor container, place cooled chickpeas, peanut butter, lemon juice, olive oil, honey, garlic, paprika, cumin, and salt; blend until smooth. If needed, blend reserved soaking liquid, 1 Tbsp (15 mL) at a time, into mixture to create desired creamy texture.
Ever thought about making burgers as an appetizer or as a potluck meal for friends and family? Try making your favourite burger into bite-sized portions. They might be small in size, but they won’t be small in flavour. These burgers also pair well with a Greek salad for a delicious mid-week lunch or dinner. Fresh is best Squeeze fresh lemon on patties while cooking to give them the fresh zing of citrus.
What worldwide vacation is complete without a stop in Italy? Dad won’t miss the meat in this flavourful mushroom alternative complete with Italian spices and a zesty vegetable tapenade. Portobellos have a uniquely “meaty” texture and act as a sponge to lock in loads of flavour. This meaty plant-based burger is sure to become a favourite—even with any meat-lovers in your life. Custom-made! Don’t be afraid to customize your burger buns to fit your patties. If your bun’s too big, trim off excess and save the trimmed bits of bread, but don’t discard. Instead, cut into small cubes; drizzle with some olive oil, sea salt, and seasonings of choice; bake at 350 F (180 C) for 10 to 15 minutes, and you’ll have delicious homemade croutons for use in soups and salads throughout the week.
Next stop, Asia! This shrimp burger combines classic Asian flavours with unique toppings for rich umami flavour with the saltiness of the ocean. Whether served on a bun or over rice in a more traditional Asian-style meal, try some unique miso yogurt or wasabi mayo dressing for a fabulous flavour bomb. Keep those burgers juicy Place raw patties on a plate or tray, and cover and freeze or refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes to keep them together and to lock in moisture.
While on your burger journey, visit Jamaica, where you’ll find the spicy jerk flavours native to this beautiful island. Maple syrup adds a unique, sticky sweetness, while fresh lime juice highlights the fresh, tangy flavours of the Caribbean. Try making your own jerk seasoning or purchase store-bought for an easy shortcut.