If you've ever made hummus, then you know how easy it is. A few ingredients, whip them together and viola - creamy goodness. It's a classic dish with endless variations.

Now that you know the basics, expand your repertoire by replacing the primary ingredient. Most beans and legumes can take the place of chickpeas, but have you tried beetroot hummus?

According to USDA National Nutrient Database, beets are highly nutritious root vegetables that are a great source of vitamins and minerals such as potassium, sodium, iron, folate, phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, vitamin C, and B vitamins such as thiamin, niacin, and riboflavin. 

They are also abundant in phytochemical compounds such as anthocyanins, carotenoids, lutein/zeaxanthin, glycine, and betaine. Being a great source of dietary fiber, they are also low in fat, cholesterol, and calories.

Red Beets are associated with:

1. Lower Blood Pressure
2. Boosting Endurance & Stamina
3. Boost Digestion
4. Brain Health
5. Cancer Prevention
6. Promoting Fat Loss
7. Treating and Preventing Anemia
8. Supporting Liver Detoxification
9. Increasing Energy Levels
10. Boosting Blood Detoxification
11. Reduction Of Birth Abnormalities
12. Boosting Immunity
13. Reduction Of Macular Degeneration
14. Preventing Cataracts
15. Preventing Strokes
16. Increasing Bone Health
17. Prevention Of Premature Aging

Still looking for another benefit? Some say it's an aphrodisiac! Beets contain high levels of the mineral boron.  Boron stimulates, boosts and regulates production of sexual hormones in your body.

Here's a basic red beet hummus recipe you can try to get started. It's tasty, versatile, easy to make and as we've learned above a very healthy dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 organic beets, cleaned, cooked, peeled, & cubed
• 2 Tbsp organic tahini.
• Juice & zest from 1 medium organic lemon
• 2 cloves organic garlic, chopped fine.
• 1 Tbsp ground organic cumin.
• 1 Tbsp lemon zest (zest from approx. 2 lemons)
• Add to taste: Fresh chopped organic cilantro, himalayan sea salt & ground pepper.

Directions:

• Blend it all together in a food processor.
• Refrigerate in an air tight container
• Will keep refrigerated for up to 7 days when using fresh ingredients
• Can be frozen, separate into smaller freezer bags or freezer safe containers

Tip:

• Still using conventional mayonnaise? Consider this healthy swap, use in place of mayo in your egg salad, sandwiches, etc...

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