A lot of people ask me for easy vegan recipes, because they want to eat better but feel that they don’t have the means or the know-how. But it ain’t about all that!

Firstly, eating vegan is almost always cheaper. That animal stuff is expensive! This isn’t a financial obstacle, it’s a misunderstanding of options. So here, I’m aiming to get you thinking outside of the SAD (standard American diet) box.

So without further ado, let me introduce you to the most dynamic dip, and your new best culinary companion: the incredible, the unparalleled, hummus!

You’ve probably tasted this splendid spread, and perhaps you’ve even made it (1 can chickpeas, add tahini + EVOO + garlic + lemon juice + spices, then blend). You probably know that it’s full of nutrients, low in fat, high in protein, and easily altered to suit your every edible whim. But have you truly explored its endless versatility? Here are a few of my favorite applications:

Sandwich   Don’t leave the great garbanzo for carrot sticks and crackers. Stick it in a sandwich in lieu of meat or cheese! Flavorful and filling, this schmear is sure to shine. I usually layer avocado, tomato, and cucumbers for a simple Mediterranean flavor. It’s also great with kalamata olives + roasted peppers + spinach, or sprouts + shredded carrots + black olives, or hot green chiles + vegan cream cheese, or . . . well, you get the idea! Try it on toast or wrap it up in a whole wheat tortilla, or fill a cabbage cup for a gluten-free creation. It’s simply divine, and different every time!

Quality bread, like fresh baked no-knead, is key!

Quesadilla   This is hands-down one of Damian’s favorite dinners, totally simple and scrumptious. Cook it in a skillet just like the dairy version, but replace the cheese with blended chickpeas! Dress it up Mexican, Mediterranean, or however suits your fancy. We like ours with with bell peppers, black beans, olives, and salsa. They’re also great with grilled veggies, or fresh garden greens like parsley and cilantro. If you’re eating gluten-free, just substitute corn tortillas!

Easy green olive and green pepper quesadilla.

Pizza   Last but not least, one of my favorite creations. Unpretentious and nostalgic, pizza is just about as fun as food gets.  Once more the hummus fills in for cheese, and from there your pizza is all up to you. Top it with whatever excites you, from fresh or grilled veggies, to red sauce or pesto or olive oil, to exotic additions like thai cilantro or hawaiian pineapple. 100% unique, 100% awesome!

Simple pizza margherita with whole-clove garlic and fresh Italian basil.

Healthy, hearty, and utterly heavenly, hummus has it all! So now tell me, what’s your favorite creative way to feast on this most flexible food?

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Tags: gluten-free, quick/easy/cheap

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