Red Pepper Hummus with Zucchini
Red Pepper Hummus with Zucchini
Classification: Low-Carb • Gluten-Free • High-Protein • Primal • Paleo • Family-Friendly • Autism-Friendly
Looking for a fresh low-carb chicken lunch, healthy Mediterranean-inspired dip, or a colourful snack packed with flavour? This Red Pepper Hummus with Zucchini is a grain-free twist on traditional hummus, blending roasted red peppers, toasted pine nuts, garlic, lemon, and tahini into a creamy, vibrant dip. Served with crisp zucchini sticks and topped with grilled chicken, it creates a satisfying, protein-rich meal that's naturally gluten-free and full of wholesome ingredients.
At Nutrition by Angie, we love giving classic recipes a nourishing makeover using real food. This "hummus" skips the chickpeas while keeping all the bold Mediterranean flavours, making it a lighter, lower-carbohydrate option that's perfect for lunch, meal prep, or entertaining.
Benefits of the Main Ingredients
Pine Nuts
Pine nuts are rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, magnesium, and manganese. Their naturally buttery flavour creates a smooth, creamy texture while adding satisfying richness.
Garlic
Fresh garlic provides aromatic depth and naturally occurring antioxidant compounds that beautifully complement the roasted peppers and lemon.
Lemon
Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dip with vibrant citrus flavour while supplying vitamin C and balancing the richness of the tahini and pine nuts.
Herbs de Provence
This fragrant blend of Mediterranean herbs adds earthy, aromatic flavour while complementing both the grilled chicken and roasted vegetables.
Zucchini
Zucchini is naturally low in carbohydrates while providing vitamin C, potassium, fibre, and antioxidants. It makes a crisp, refreshing alternative to crackers or bread for dipping.
Grilled Chicken Breast
Chicken breast is an excellent source of complete protein while providing niacin, vitamin B6, phosphorus, and selenium. It makes this recipe especially filling and ideal for a high-protein lifestyle.
Roasted Red Peppers
Roasted red peppers are naturally rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants. Their sweet, smoky flavour creates the perfect base for this Mediterranean-inspired dip.
Tahini
Tahini, made from ground sesame seeds, contributes healthy fats, calcium, iron, magnesium, and a delicious nutty flavour that creates the creamy consistency traditionally associated with hummus.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This Red Pepper Hummus with Zucchini is creamy, fresh, and bursting with Mediterranean flavours. The roasted peppers, garlic, lemon, and toasted pine nuts create a naturally rich dip that pairs perfectly with crisp zucchini and juicy grilled chicken. It's naturally gluten-free, lower in carbohydrates than traditional hummus, and packed with protein and healthy fats.
Whether you're looking for a healthy chicken lunch, low-carb appetiser, Mediterranean-inspired meal, or a colourful high-protein snack, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and full of fresh flavour.
Autism-Friendly Benefits
This recipe is easy to adapt to individual sensory preferences. The dip can be blended until completely smooth, while the chicken, zucchini, and dip can all be served separately if preferred. Grilled chicken provides high-quality protein to support steady energy, and the mild sweetness of roasted peppers creates a balanced flavour that many people enjoy. As always, textures and seasonings can be adjusted to suit individual sensory needs.
Tip
Serve with cucumber slices, celery sticks, bell pepper strips, cheese crisps, or lettuce cups for an even lower-carb option. Garnish with extra toasted pine nuts, fresh parsley, cracked black pepper, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with grilled mushrooms, or for an even more animal-based meal, serve alongside sliced roast beef, grilled lamb, or boiled eggs.