Hummus is a great source of fiber, which may promote weight loss. Surveys have shown that people who consume chickpeas or hummus regularly are less likely to have obesity and may have a lower BMI and smaller waist circumference.

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.

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