Edamame Hummus Toasts

I still remember the first time I whipped up a batch of Edamame Hummus. My family, usually a tough crowd when it comes to venturing outside their culinary comfort zones (especially with anything green!), was surprisingly intrigued. The vibrant, almost electric green hue of the hummus was the first thing that caught their eye. I’d decided to serve it on some crusty, toasted sourdough as an afternoon snack, hoping for the best. The verdict? An absolute triumph! My kids, who often turn their noses up at plain hummus, devoured their toasts, asking for seconds. My partner, a self-proclaimed hummus connoisseur, declared it one of the best, most refreshing variations he’d ever tasted. It wasn’t just the novelty; it was the creamy texture, the subtle nutty sweetness of the edamame, perfectly balanced by the zesty lemon and pungent garlic. Since that day, Edamame Hummus Toasts have become a staple in our home – a quick, healthy, and incredibly satisfying option for a light lunch, a pre-dinner appetizer, or even a savory breakfast. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel good about what you’re eating, without sacrificing an iota of flavor. Its versatility is another huge plus; we’ve experimented with countless toppings, and each one brings a new dimension to this already delightful dish. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a gateway to healthier, more exciting snacking and light meals.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this vibrant and delicious Edamame Hummus:

• Frozen Shelled Edamame: 2 cups (about 300g). These are young soybeans, picked before they ripen. Using frozen shelled edamame is convenient and ensures they are perfectly blanched. They provide the beautiful green color and a slightly sweet, nutty base for the hummus.
• Tahini: 1/4 cup (60ml). This sesame seed paste is a classic hummus ingredient, lending a rich, nutty flavor and creamy consistency. Opt for a good quality, runny tahini for the best results.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: 1/4 cup (60ml), from about 1-2 lemons. Freshly squeezed is non-negotiable here; it provides essential brightness and cuts through the richness of the tahini and edamame.
• Garlic: 2-3 cloves, roughly chopped. Adjust to your preference. Garlic adds a pungent, savory kick that is characteristic of hummus. For a milder flavor, you can roast the garlic first.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml), plus more for drizzling. A good quality olive oil adds fruity notes and helps create a smoother texture.
• Cold Water or Ice Water: 2-4 tablespoons (30-60ml), or as needed. This is crucial for achieving that light, airy, and super creamy hummus texture. Ice water works particularly well.
• Ground Cumin: 1 teaspoon. Cumin adds a warm, earthy depth of flavor that complements the edamame beautifully.
• Salt: 3/4 teaspoon, or to taste. Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste. Adds a subtle hint of spice.
• Artisan Bread Slices: 4-6 thick slices. Sourdough, whole wheat, rye, or a good quality multigrain bread work wonderfully. Toast them until golden and crisp.
• Optional Garnishes:
  • Toasted Sesame Seeds: For added crunch and nutty flavor.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: For a touch of heat.
  • Fresh Parsley or Cilantro: Chopped, for freshness and color.
  • A Drizzle of Olive Oil: For richness and visual appeal.
  • Everything Bagel Seasoning: For a savory, textural pop.
  • Thinly Sliced Radishes or Cucumbers: For crunch and freshness.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Edamame Hummus Toasts:

1. Cook the Edamame: If your frozen edamame isn’t pre-cooked, bring a small pot of water to a boil. Add the shelled edamame and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until tender and bright green. If they are pre-cooked (check package instructions), you might just need to thaw them. Drain the edamame well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and help retain their vibrant color. Set aside. This step is crucial because properly cooked edamame will blend much more smoothly.
2. Prepare Garlic and Lemon: While the edamame is cooking or cooling, peel and roughly chop your garlic cloves. Juice your lemon(s) – remember, fresh is best! Having these prepped will make the blending process smoother. Some people find raw garlic too pungent; if that’s you, consider briefly sautéing or roasting the garlic cloves before adding them to the food processor.
3. Combine Ingredients in Food Processor: In the bowl of a food processor, combine the cooked and cooled edamame, tahini, fresh lemon juice, chopped garlic, 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper.
4. Blend Until Smooth: Secure the lid of the food processor and pulse a few times to break down the ingredients. Then, process continuously for 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula as needed to ensure everything is incorporated.
5. Add Cold Water for Creaminess: With the food processor running on low, slowly drizzle in the cold water or ice water, one tablespoon at a time. Continue processing until the hummus is very smooth and creamy. You might need more or less water depending on your desired consistency. The ice water trick helps to make the hummus exceptionally light and fluffy. Aim for a texture that is easily spreadable but not watery. This can take another 2-3 minutes of blending.
6. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Once the hummus is smooth, taste it. This is your chance to perfect the flavors. Does it need more salt? A bit more lemon juice for tanginess? Perhaps more cumin for earthiness, or even a pinch of cayenne for heat? Adjust the seasonings according to your preference and blend briefly to combine.
7. Toast the Bread: While the hummus is resting (or if you’ve made it ahead), toast your bread slices. You can use a toaster, a grill pan, or even broil them in the oven for a minute or two per side. Aim for golden brown and crispy, but still slightly chewy in the center. The warmth and crunch of the toast provide a wonderful contrast to the cool, creamy hummus.
8. Assemble the Toasts: Generously spread a thick layer of the edamame hummus onto each slice of toasted bread.
9. Garnish and Serve: Drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle with your chosen garnishes – toasted sesame seeds, red pepper flakes, fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, or everything bagel seasoning. Thinly sliced radishes or cucumbers also add a lovely freshness and crunch. Serve immediately and enjoy the explosion of flavors and textures!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: This recipe makes approximately 2 cups of hummus, enough for 4-6 generous toasts.
• Calories per serving (1 toast with ~1/4 cup hummus): Approximately 250-350 calories, depending on the bread and exact amount of hummus.

Here are some key nutritional highlights:

1. High in Plant-Based Protein: Edamame is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. Tahini also contributes. This makes the toasts satisfying and great for muscle repair and satiety.
2. Rich in Fiber: Both edamame and whole-grain bread are excellent sources of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and promotes a feeling of fullness.
3. Good Source of Healthy Fats: The tahini and olive oil provide monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
4. Packed with Vitamins and Minerals: Edamame is a powerhouse of nutrients, including folate, vitamin K, iron, and magnesium, all essential for various bodily functions.
5. Relatively Low in Saturated Fat: Compared to many cheese-based or creamy spreads, edamame hummus is a healthier alternative, lower in saturated fats while still being incredibly flavorful.

Preparation Time

• Active Preparation Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes. This includes cooking the edamame (if needed), chopping garlic, juicing lemon, and blending the hummus.
• Total Time (including edamame cooking): Approximately 20-25 minutes.
  This recipe is wonderfully quick to pull together, making it ideal for busy weekdays or when you need a fast, nutritious snack or light meal. The food processor does most of the heavy lifting!

How to Serve

Edamame Hummus Toasts are incredibly versatile. Here are some fantastic ways to serve and enjoy them:

• As a Light & Healthy Lunch:
  • Serve one or two toasts alongside a fresh green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette.
  • Pair with a cup of your favorite soup for a comforting and complete meal.
• A Vibrant Appetizer:
  • Cut the toasts into smaller, bite-sized pieces (triangles or squares) for easy party fare.
  • Arrange them artfully on a platter with other colorful dips and crudités.
  • Top with microgreens or edible flowers for an elegant presentation.
• A Satisfying Snack:
  • Enjoy a single toast as a mid-afternoon pick-me-up to curb hunger pangs.
  • It’s a great post-workout snack due to its protein and carbohydrate content.
• A Savory Breakfast Option:
  • Top with a perfectly poached or fried egg for an extra protein boost.
  • Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese (if not strictly vegan) or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
• Topping Extravaganza (Get Creative!):
  • Fresh & Crunchy: Thinly sliced radishes, cucumbers, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes (halved or quartered), or shredded carrots.
  • Greens: Arugula for a peppery bite, spinach, microgreens, or fresh sprouts.
  • Seeds & Nuts: Sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, hemp seeds, or chopped toasted almonds/pistachios for added texture and nutrients.
  • Spice it Up: A sprinkle of sumac for tang, za’atar for Middle Eastern flair, or a dash of smoked paprika.
  • Extra Creaminess: Sliced avocado adds another layer of healthy fats and creaminess.
  • Pickled Elements: Pickled red onions or jalapeños can add a wonderful tangy kick.
• Beyond Toast:
  • Use the edamame hummus as a dip for vegetable sticks (carrots, celery, bell peppers, cucumbers).
  • Spread it in sandwiches or wraps instead of mayonnaise or other spreads.
  • Use it as a base for a vibrant grain bowl.

Additional Tips

Enhance your Edamame Hummus Toast experience with these eight handy tips:

1. Shell Your Own Edamame (Optional): While shelled edamame is convenient, buying edamame in pods and shelling them yourself can sometimes be more economical and ensures freshness. It’s a bit more work but can be meditative!
2. The Ice Water Trick is Key: Don’t skip adding a few tablespoons of ice-cold water while the food processor is running. This aerates the hummus, making it significantly lighter and creamier, similar to traditional chickpea hummus.
3. Taste and Adjust Vigorously: The given measurements are a guideline. Your lemons might be more or less tart, your garlic more or less pungent. Always taste the hummus before serving and adjust salt, lemon, or garlic to your exact preference. A little more lemon juice can often brighten up all the flavors.
4. Don’t Overlook the Tahini Quality: A good quality, runny tahini makes a world of difference. Avoid tahini that is overly thick or separated if possible, or make sure to stir it very well. Some brands are naturally more bitter than others; find one you like.
5. Make Hummus Ahead: The edamame hummus can be made up to 3-4 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors might even meld and improve over time. Give it a good stir before serving, as it might thicken slightly.
6. Toast Bread Just Before Serving: For the best texture contrast, toast your bread slices right before you plan to assemble and serve the toasts. This ensures maximum crispiness against the creamy hummus.
7. Experiment with Herbs in the Hummus: While this recipe uses cumin, feel free to blend in fresh herbs directly into the hummus. Cilantro, mint, or dill can add exciting new flavor dimensions. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
8. Garnish Generously for Appeal and Flavor: Garnishes aren’t just for looks! A drizzle of quality olive oil adds richness, red pepper flakes add a kick, toasted sesame seeds add crunch, and fresh herbs add brightness. Layering these textures and flavors elevates the simple toast.

FAQ Section

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Edamame Hummus Toasts:

1. Q: Can I use canned edamame instead of frozen?
   • A: Yes, you can use canned edamame. However, make sure to rinse it thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess sodium or canning liquid. The texture might be slightly softer than freshly cooked frozen edamame, but it will still work.
2. Q: Is this recipe vegan?
   • A: Yes, as written, the edamame hummus itself is entirely vegan. To keep the entire dish vegan, ensure you use vegan bread and vegan toppings.
3. Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   • A: The edamame hummus is naturally gluten-free. To make the entire dish gluten-free, simply serve it on your favorite gluten-free bread, crackers, or with vegetable sticks.
4. Q: How long will the edamame hummus last in the refrigerator?
   • A: Stored in an airtight container, the edamame hummus should last for about 3-5 days in the refrigerator. It might thicken slightly upon chilling; you can stir in a teaspoon of water or lemon juice to loosen it if needed.
5. Q: Can I freeze edamame hummus?
   • A: Yes, you can freeze edamame hummus. Place it in a freezer-safe airtight container, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. The texture might be slightly different after thawing (a bit less creamy), but a good stir or a quick whiz in the food processor with a touch of olive oil or water can help restore it.
6. Q: What if I don’t have tahini? Can I substitute it?
   • A: Tahini is key for authentic hummus flavor and creaminess. However, if you don’t have it, you could try substituting with a neutral-flavored nut butter like unsalted cashew butter or almond butter, though this will alter the taste. Alternatively, you can omit it, but the hummus will be less rich and creamy; you might want to add a little extra olive oil.
7. Q: My hummus is too thick/thin. How can I fix it?
   • A: If your hummus is too thick, add more cold water or lemon juice, one teaspoon at a time, while the food processor is running, until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, you can try adding a bit more edamame or a tablespoon more tahini (if you have it) to thicken it up. Chilling it will also help it firm up.
8. Q: Can I add other spices or ingredients to the hummus?
   • A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment. A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can add heat. Smoked paprika can lend a lovely smoky flavor. Fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or mint blended in can create different flavor profiles. Some people even like to add a bit of roasted red pepper or sun-dried tomato for extra depth.