Raw Avocado & Zucchini Hummus (bean-free)

I've never been one for dips, spreads, or dressings. Don't get me wrong, I'll enjoy them from time to time. But I've never really gone out of my way to make sure I had anything to dip my veggies in, dollop on top of a salad, or smear over a piece of bread (gluten free, these days). As it turns out, I have been making all the wrong kinds of dips, spreads, and smearable goodies. I just hadn't met Raw Avocado & Zucchini Hummus yet.

I'm not sure if this is even "hummus" as it is amazingly bean free! Crazy, right? However, it reminds me of that beautifully garlicky spread enough that I gave it that comparative name. It can hold its own in place of conventional hummus, but adds a lovely kick of extra veggies to a meal or snack.

While Raw Avocado & Zucchini Hummus may not be "beany", it is loaded with amazing raw goodness and healthy fats. The thick, spreadable texture comes from a blend of raw zucchini and avocado (hence the name, of course). Add the right spices, some garlic, and a little tahini...and you have an easy, veggified, beautifully healthy dip, spread, dressing alternative.

Where I once used to feel "eh" about hummus and other spreads....I, in fact, am now addicted to adding this hummus to everything. I dip my carrot sticks in it, smear it on a piece of fish or backed chicken, pile it onto my salads, and need to make another batch so that I can add it to sandwiches next. It seems to have endless places it can be enjoyed and I plan on exploring all of the possibilities!

Encouraging your children to try new foods:

Want to get your kiddos in on the raw, veggified, bean-free hummus goodness? Remember these important tips for introducing this new food or any new food to a skeptical eater.

1. Get them involved in the creation process! If your child is younger, let them be in charge of turning the food processor on and off. If they are older, put them in charge of the whole dang recipe! Let them taste test it and offer suggestions of what you should add more of...or what maybe to scale back in the next batch.
2. Role model your own willingness to try a new food! Eat the new hummus alternative! Love that spread! Moan and groan over how amazing it is (because it is). And even if YOU don't like it, don't express your personal feelings until your child has had a chance to form their own opinions about a new food. Your children are watching everything you do! If you wrinkle your nose at a new food, they will take note and may not be willing to even give the new food a taste test.
3. Positively reinforce! This little trick is something I learned from my friend, Amanda, and have tried with my own daughter and preschool students....with raving success! Have a Bravery Bell. It can be any kind of bell. Amanda has a ship's bell mounted in her dining room. I use a Zenergy Chime with my kiddos. The bell is reserved for when a child is brave enough to try a new food and then (and only then) does the child get to ring the bell in celebration of their bravery. It sounds simple and maybe even a little silly, but it is amazing how effective it is! The children love earning the right to ring that special bell and you love that they were willing to try something new. And half the time getting them to take that first bite is half the battle!

Makes about 1 1/2 cups of hummus

Ingredients:

• 1 medium raw zucchini, washed and roughly chopped
• 1 large avocado, peeled and pitted
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1-4 cloves of garlic (to taste (start with less garlic for children))
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt or to taste
• 2 teaspoons cumin or to taste
• 1/2 cup tahini

Directions:

1. Combine raw zucchini and avocado in a food processor or blender. Pulse a few times to chop them up well.
2. Add the remaining ingredients to the food processor or blender. Run until the hummus has a smooth consistency. Scrape down the sides of the food processor or blender and run again.
3. Taste and add more garlic, cumin, or salt if desired.
4. Store in fridge in an air tight container for up to 6 days.

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