One of the best things to bring to a party is a dip of some kind and a bag of chips or crackers. Almost everyone likes dips and they can be both versatile and easy to make. However, sometimes people steer clear of them, since they can often be heavy on fat, made of ingredients like sour cream, mayonnaise, and full of cheese. They certainly be deadly for diets and all your good intentions! Luckily, there are a couple other types of dips that are just as yummy to dip crackers or tortilla chips in that are low fat and can even be good for you! These are just as easy to make, taste fresh, and will leave you feeling good. What are we talking about? Guacamole dips and hummus, of course! If you’re wondering “What is guacamole?” or “What is hummus?” you need to go out and try some right now! You won’t regret it.
What is Guacamole?
If you’ve ever wondered, “What is guacamole and where does it come from?” we have some answers for you. It’s a dip composed primarily of avocados. It can be a salad as well, but is more commonly used as a side dish. It’s a pretty old recipe, dating all the way back to the Aztecs! However, as with many American foods, it’s been absorbed into American culture and is popular at parties and other informal gatherings as a snack.
It’s also pretty easy to make yourself, although you can buy it at almost any grocery store these days. Recipes with guacamole usually call for avocados, salt, tomatoes, lime juice, garlic, and onion. Jalapenos and cilantro may also be added, depending on individual preferences.
The fat in avocados is considered healthy fat and is very low carb as well. Additionally, there’s no cholesterol or sodium in guacamole (unless you add salt yourself) and the high potassium levels can help keep your blood pressure down. Another reason to indulge in this tasty snack! Avocados also contain lots of good vitamins and fiber for your body.
What is Hummus?
Hummus is another tasty side that comes in many different varieties. You can definitely find this in any store and is delicious whether eaten on a pita, cracker, chip, or piece of bread! Hummus is a dip or spread that’s comprised of mostly a chickpea base. Tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and salt are also usually added in the most basic hummus recipes. It originated in Egypt around the 13th century, but is now a popular dish in the Middle East and the rest of the world as well!
While hummus may be a little more complicated than guacamole to make, it’s still a pretty simple recipe. If you want to make your own hummus instead of buying it prepackaged, all the ingredients should be available at a store near you. You can also get creative — other popular hummus variations include spicy hummus, roasted red pepper hummus, garlic hummus, and even beet hummus! Since hummus can be on the blander side, it’s great to pair with something a little more savory or with vegetables. It can make a quick and healthy snack when paired with pretzels or veggies like carrots or celery, that you can easily bring on the go.
Did you know that just eating two spoons of hummus every day would take care of the recommended portion of beans for the week? (You should be eating at least one and a half cup of beans a week, according to Dietary Guidelines.) How easy is that? In 2010, the Dietary Guidelines fully supported a suggestion that people should eat more vegetables and beans. They’re full of nutrients, can help you manage your weight, and are linked to a lowered risk of chronic diseases or conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, inflammation, and more.
Next time you’re stumped on what to bring to a party, consider hummus or guacamole. And if someone should ever ask you, “What is guacamole?” or “What is hummus?” you’ll be able to answer them with lots of confidence!