Rainbow Carrots and Hummus

Bring a burst of color to your table with this vibrant platter of oven-roasted rainbow carrots served alongside a creamy, tahini-rich homemade hummus. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is not only visually stunning but also a healthy and delicious appetizer or snack that is naturally vegan and gluten-free.

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The combination of tender, lightly caramelized carrots and smooth, zesty hummus creates a satisfying contrast in textures. Whether you are hosting a gathering or looking for a nutritious afternoon snack, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Roasted Rainbow Carrots:

• 1 lb (450 g) rainbow carrots, peeled and trimmed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin (optional)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Tahini Hummus:

• 1 (15 oz/425 g) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) tahini
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 2–3 tbsp cold water (as needed)
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

Toss the rainbow carrots with olive oil, salt, pepper, and cumin (if using). Arrange in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3

Roast for 25–30 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the carrots are tender and lightly caramelized.

Step 4

Meanwhile, prepare the hummus: In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and salt. Blend until smooth, adding cold water a tablespoon at a time to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5

Taste the hummus and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6

Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle with smoked paprika.

Step 7

Arrange the roasted carrots on a platter, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve alongside the hummus.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the smoothest hummus, ensure your chickpeas are well-rinsed. When roasting the carrots, make sure they are spread out in a single layer; crowding the pan can cause them to steam rather than caramelize.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or dukkah on top of the carrots for extra crunch. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of chili flakes to the carrots before they go into the oven.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this colorful platter as is, or round it out with additional raw vegetables and warm pita bread for variety. It makes for a wonderful centerpiece at any Mediterranean-themed gathering.

Mix doughs, batters, and whipped cream easily for baking cakes, cookies, and everyday treats.

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Enjoy this delightful and healthy combination of roasted rainbow carrots and creamy tahini hummus. It's a simple yet sophisticated way to elevate your snack game!

Common Questions

→ What makes rainbow carrots different from regular carrots?

Rainbow carrots come in purple, orange, yellow, and white varieties, each offering slightly different flavor notes ranging from sweet to slightly earthy. They add vibrant visual appeal to your platter while providing the same nutritional benefits as traditional orange carrots.

→ Can I make the hummus ahead of time?

Absolutely. Homemade hummus actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours or overnight as the flavors meld together. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature and give it a stir before serving.

→ How do I know when the carrots are done roasting?

The carrots should be tender when pierced with a fork and have lightly caramelized edges. You'll notice they've developed a golden-brown color and their natural sugars have concentrated, making them sweeter. This typically takes 25-30 minutes at 425°F.

→ What can I serve with this dish besides hummus?

These roasted carrots pair wonderfully with other Mediterranean dips like baba ganoush or tzatziki. You can also serve them alongside grilled proteins, add them to grain bowls, or enjoy them as a simple side dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, both components store beautifully. Keep roasted carrots in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheat gently in the oven or enjoy them cold. The hummus keeps up to a week. For best results, store them separately and assemble when ready to serve.