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!