Roasted Carrot and Hummus Platter

Introduction: 

Elevate your appetizer game with this delightful Roasted Carrot and Hummus Platter recipe. The natural sweetness of roasted carrots perfectly complements the creamy richness of homemade hummus. This dish not only pleases the palate but also adds a burst of colour to your table. Prepare to impress your guests with this delectable and nutritious offering.

Ingredients:

For Roasted Carrots:

• 1 pound (about 450g) carrots, peeled and cut into long strips
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Hummus:

• 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt, to taste
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Water, as needed

For Serving:

Fresh parsley, chopped

Sesame seeds

Whole grain pita bread or pita chips

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Roasted Carrots: 

a. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. 

b. Toss the carrot strips in the spice mixture until well coated. 

c. Spread the carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. 

d. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized.

Hummus:

 a. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, and a pinch of salt. 

b. Pulse the mixture while gradually adding olive oil. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a little water to achieve the desired consistency. 

c. Continue processing until the hummus is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Plating: 

a. Arrange the roasted carrot strips on a serving platter. 

b. Place a bowl of freshly prepared hummus in the centre of the platter. 

c. Sprinkle chopped parsley and sesame seeds over the hummus for added flavour and visual appeal.

Serve: 

a. Serve the Roasted Carrot and Hummus Platter with whole grain pita bread or pita chips on the side. b. Encourage your guests to dip the roasted carrots into the creamy hummus for a delightful flavour combination.

Conclusion: 

This Roasted Carrot and Hummus Platter is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. The natural sweetness of the roasted carrots, combined with the creamy and tangy hummus, creates a harmonious blend of flavours and textures. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, this dish is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the vibrant colours and nutritious goodness of this delectable recipe