Anti-inflammatory Root Veggie Hummus

This recipe was inspired by a series of classes I'm teaching on the relationship between food and healthy skin, nails and hair. As I wrote down the beautifying whole foods that can help repair and protect our precious skin fibers and decrease inflammation, I also imagined dishes that would pack in as many as possible. Berries and asparagus and kidney beans, oh my!

As sugar-free plum visions danced in my head, the concept of a Super Antioxidant Hummus rose to the forefront. A deeply pigmented, creamy dip that would look as lovely as it tasted, a pure offering of healing and nourishment.

Thus, my Anti-Inflammatory Hummus came to life! I've seen a few recipes out there for roasted beet hummus, but I wanted to maintain as much of the nutrition as possible, so I opted to steam my root veggies. The color you see in beets, sweet potatoes, turmeric and lemons are all unmistakable markers of their antioxidant capacity. Garlic and chickpeas aren't to be sneezed at either, the former ripe with anti-inflammatory and anti-viral compounds, and the latter, mild chickpea is also packed with antioxidants.

In addition to helping sooth inflammation and boost your immune system, this hummus provides satiating protein and healthy fat, so it won't leave you raiding the pantry for another snack. Oh, and it's easy peasy to throw together!

If you want to impress guests at your next pot-luck, bring this delicious and stunning super-powered hummus. Or make it for yourself and enjoy the beautifying benefits throughout the week. I love it on gluten-free toast with avocado slices or as a dip with carrot sticks or baked veggie chips.