Hummus For Health

Here's a health tip for those who love to snack but find it is putting pounds on their waistline or contributing to increased blood sugar or other problems.

Every year for Christmas I make up some Hummus to go with our Shepherd's Dinner on Christmas Eve. It goes great with crackers, pita bread or torn bread pieces. I'd always made my hummus with garbanzo beans and sesame seeds, but my oldest son introduced me to Tahini paste (basically ground sesame seeds in paste form) this past year, which results in a much smoother Hummus with great, rich flavor.

After I was diagnosed with diabetes several years ago, I found out that Hummus is also a wonderful food for diabetics as the garbanzo beans fall low on the glycemic index scale and it makes a healthful snack or meal that doesn't raise blood sugar like so many other foods can do. Since then, I've started purchasing Hummus from the store as well as making my own so that I usually have some around in the fridge for whenever I need a small pick me up or a quick lunch. One of my favorite brands is "SABRA". I especially like their Roasted Garlic Hummus and their Pine Nut Hummus. Yum! I even found it at the little market store in Yosemite Valley this past summer and enjoyed a hummus picnic lunch while watching the water cascade over Bridal Veil Falls.

So the next time you have a hankering for chips and dip, reach for a container of Hummus and some pita bread or pita chips instead. You just might form a new, healthier habit.

Holiday Cheese Ball

Every year we host a big caroling party at our house on the Monday before Christmas. Everyone who comes brings a side dish or two, and I make a big pot of corn chowder for the group. A friend of mine makes a big pot of chili, and after the carolers have worked up a good appetite they all crowd into the kitchen to line up for the bowls of soup and chili we start ladling out. The table is always covered with wonderful holiday offers like Christmas cookies and nut breads, cheese and crackers, dips, cornbread and more.
Here is a recipe for a Christmas Cheese Ball that would be perfect for any holiday gathering.

Cheese Ball For Christmas

2 8 oz. pkgs. cream cheese
8 oz. can crushed pineapple, drained
1/4 c. mixed red and green bell peppers, finely chopped
2 tbsp. finely chopped onion or finely sliced green onion
1 c. chopped pecans + 1 c. chopped pecans for rolling in

Mix all ingredients together except 2nd c. of pecans. Form into one large ball or several smaller balls. Roll in remaining cup of chopped pecans to coat.

Serve with seasoned crackers or savory breads.