14 Ways To Eat Hummus, Besides Slathering It On Pita Chips

When I say hummus, you say...pita chips, right? But that's not the only thing you can slather with this creamy, Middle Eastern-born spread.

Hummus' main ingredient, chickpeas (or garbanzo beans) "have grown in this region of the world for thousands of years, but nobody can decide whether it’s Syrian, Lebanese, Arabic, etc.," explains food researcher Lana Chehabeddine. “Different countries in the Middle East like to claim ownership, but the actual word 'hummus' is Arabic for 'chickpea.'”

Though its exact origin is still up in the air, hummus (along with other dips like baba ghanoush and muhamarrah) "is traditionally used in what Middle Easterners call a ‘mezza’ 0r 'mezzah' style meal, in which everyone tastes a little of a few small staple dishes on the table,” says Chehabeddine. “Otherwise, hummus has been traditionally used as a dip for pita bread and a side for shish kabobs, grilled meat on skewers."

With its rich history and subtle, creamy texture and flavor, it's no wonder hummus is popular around the world today.

It's also got some impressive health perks, too. The dip is packed with protein and other nutrients, like magnesium, iron, and fiber, according to dietitian Maggie Michalczyk, RD. You can thank the humble chickpea for those benefits.

Honestly, though, every traditional component of this tasty spread brings something to the table. “Besides the protein and fiber benefits of the chickpeas, olive oil provides unsaturated fat and an anti-inflammatory kick, as do the omega-3 rich sesame seeds in tahini,” says Dr. Alexia M Moutsatsos, MD, FACP. “Other common add-ins like garlic and lemon also provide antioxidants and vitamin C, respectively.”

Not to mention, chickpeas are a seriously affordable protein source, making hummus a cost-efficient and nutritious staple for vegetarians, vegans, and omnivores alike. It's also pretty easy to make your own: All you need is a can of chickpeas, garlic, lemon juice, tahini, and olive oil. Just add your ingredients to a food processor and you'll have fresh hummus in minutes, Michalczyk says.

Don't limit your hummus consumption to just chips or carrot sticks, though. Here's what else to eat with hummus, according to a few super-creative nutritionists.