Hummus is a healthy, versatile snack. It is packed with nutrients and offers protection from various diseases. It's easy to make your own at home, and you can find all kinds of flavors at the grocery store, from black bean, roasted garlic, and coconut curry to red velvet and chocolate mint.

Hummus is a smooth and creamy puree of cooked chickpeas (garbanzo beans), tahini and an acid, typically lemon juice. While hummus usually has garlic now, centuries ago it did not. Olive oil isn't a requirement either, but most modern recipes list it as an ingredient.

Grilled Meat or Chicken: If you're looking for a heartier option, grilled chicken or lamb can be served with hummus as part of a larger meal. Flatbreads: In addition to pita bread, you can serve this creamy spread with other types of flatbreads, like naan or lavash.

“It generally offers more vitamins and minerals than many other dips or spreads,” she says, since it includes calcium, folate and magnesium.