Roasted Carrot & Red Lentil Hummus – Appetizer

Roasted Carrot & Red Lentil Hummus – Hors d’oeuvre

An unexpecting about phenomenal appetizer! It’s so good it could be a meal on its own.

Hors d’oeuvre but make it healthy

I just want to take a moment before getting into the roasted carrot & red lentil hummus recipe. To thank you all for being here on this food journey with me. You’re truly at the start of something so special to me. So, thank you again. Now, if you want to see the video of this recipe I have it linked here on my Instagram. I am also leaving for a big trip soon so if you want to be a part of that journey don’t forget to follow along! I’ll be posting all about the places I’m going, food I’m eating, if I’ll get to cook and more. First destination: France. YAY! I will still be posting weekly on the blog so remember to follow my Pinterest so you never miss a recipe, also it gives you a great place to save all the recipes you love. Last but not least of the place you can find me, I also am on YT, where I also share recipes and will soon be posting long form videos on recipes and vlogs coming. Very excited to share with you all!!

What inspired this recipe?

When I am making an appetizer or “hors d’oeuvre” as the French say. I want something that obviously tastes amazing but isn’t going to make you too full for dinner. We want the guests to eat dinner. There’s nothing worse then feeding them too much and having them push their dinner around their plate with a fork.
Which brings us to this recipe. I love carrots and they are totally underrated as far as baking them goes. They are tasty and can get crispy. Which I love. I constantly make roasted carrots in my house. So, I thought to myself what pairs well with carrots that also makes it fancier. First thought hummus. Dig dig. Then I considered red lentil hummus. I love hummus but this lentil hummus is like next level. The flavor is so rich but not too salty or over powering. It’s just good.
Then when you pair them together and top with fresh cilantro or parsley you have the roasted carrot & red lentil hummus, the perfect appetizer. I hope you love this as much as I do.

Health Benefits:

Carrots:
Rich in Beta-Carotene: an antioxidant that the body converts into vitamin A, essential for good vision, skin health, and a strong immune system.
Aids in Digestion: The high fiber content of carrots supports healthy digestion.
Support Weight Loss: If that is your goal. They are low in calories and high in fiber.
Lentil Hummus:
High in Protein: Excellent plant-based source of protein, making them a great option for vegetarians and vegans or anyone looking to boost their protein intake.
High in Fiber: Which supports healthy digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Heart Health: The fiber, folate, and magnesium in red lentils are known to support heart health.
Support Blood Sugar Control: Red lentils have a low glycemic index, meaning they cause a slow and steady rise in blood sugar, making them a great option for those with diabetes or looking to maintain balanced energy levels.
Rich in Iron: Which is essential for producing red blood cells and preventing anemia.
Good for Bone Health: A good source of minerals like magnesium and phosphorus, which are important for strong and healthy bones.

What you will need:

• A high-speed blender or food processor
• Cookie sheet
• Parchment paper

Ingredients:

(The Hummus)

• 1/2 Cup of red lentils
• 1 Cup of water
• 1 Whole garlic clove
• 1 Tbsp tahini
• 1/2 Tsp salt
• 1/2 Tsp smoked paprika
• 1.5 Tbsp lemon juice
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• A bit of fresh pepper

(The Roasted Carrots)

• 5 heirloom carrots
• 1 Tbsp garlic Powder
• 1 Tbsp onion Powder
• 1/2 Tbsp oregano
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 Tsp salt (good salt)
• Fresh ground pepper
• Fresh chopped cilantro to garish

Method:

1. You are going to start by cooking your lentils. Add water and lentils to a saucepan, bring to a boil, lower the heat and cover until the lentils are completely cooked.

2. Pre-heat the oven to 425F.
3. Clean, peel and chop your carrots into a large fry-like shape. (As in video)
4. Mix your spices, add the olive oil to coat the carrots and then pour the spices on top. Mix well.
5. Place the carrots on a cookie sheet covered in parchment paper.

6. Cook those carrots for 15 mins and turn then cook for another 5 min. Until they are tender and crispy. It may take longer depending on your oven!
7. While those are cooking, your lentils should be done. Pour the lentils into a high-speed blender along with the garlic, tahini, salt, paprika, lemon juice, olive oil and pepper. Blend until it’s very smooth.

8. Now it is time to plate. Put the lentil hummus on the desired plate. Top with your roasted carrots and freshly chopped cilantro. Your appetizer is ready!!!

I hope you loved this recipe. It truly is very good and will impress your guests!

Other recipes you will love:

Smashed Purple Japanese Sweet Potato – Covered in a butter herb sauce. Oh yes.
Gallo Pinto – A Blue Zone recipe. Also vegan if that’s something you are looking for.
Orzo Salad Loaded – This salad is fully loaded with veggies. It also can be made vegan if you don’t add the chicken!
Greek Yogurt Bark – This is a refreshing dessert to keep on had. Fresh and light.
Gluten Free Banana Brownies – This is simply a recipe everyone needs.

Questions/comments?

I love hearing from each and every one of you, so please feel free to comment below how this worked out for you, if you have a question, or if you just want to say hi!
Thank you so much for being here! I appreciate you all and your support!