As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm golden hue over my little kitchen, I found myself in a creative frenzy. With an array of colorful vegetables sprawled across my countertop, I felt inspired to whip up something vibrant and delicious. This led me to create a trio of vegetable purees that not only serve as delightful accompaniments to any meal but also add a splash of color to your dining table. Each puree is flavored with unique herbs and spices that elevate their natural sweetness, making them irresistible.
Ingredients
Carrot Ginger Puree:
3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ cup vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Beet Hummus Puree:
2 medium beets, roasted and peeled
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons tahini
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt to taste
Spinach Avocado Puree:
2 cups fresh spinach leaves
1 ripe avocado, pitted and scooped
1 tablespoon lime juice
¼ cup Greek yogurt
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
To begin with the Carrot Ginger Puree, place the chopped carrots in a saucepan and cover them with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until the carrots are tender, about 15 minutes. Drain the carrots and transfer them to a blender. Add the minced ginger, olive oil, and vegetable broth. Blend until smooth, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Next, for the Beet Hummus Puree, if you haven’t roasted your beets yet, wrap them in foil and roast them in a 400°F (200°C) oven for about an hour. Once cooled, peel the beets and place them in a food processor. Add the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt. Blend until creamy and smooth, adjusting the seasoning as needed. This vibrant puree will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Lastly, for the Spinach Avocado Puree, in a blender or food processor, combine the fresh spinach leaves, avocado, lime juice, and Greek yogurt. Blend until silky and smooth, adding salt and pepper to taste. This creamy green puree is not only nutritious but also a delightful complement to any dish.
Once all three purees are ready, serve them in small bowls arranged artfully on a platter. You can add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil on top for an extra touch. Pair these purees with grilled fish, roasted chicken, or simply enjoy them with crusty bread. Each bite is a celebration of flavor, color, and creativity!