Healthy Game Day & Everyday Delight: Oil-Free Tri-Spiced Yam Fries with Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

Oil-free yam fries perfectly seasoned and served with oil-free roasted red pepper hummus. This dynamic duo is ready in just 30 minutes, making it an effortlessly easy snack or a healthy, vibrant side dish for any meal!

Thinking back to my high school days, football games were less about the touchdowns and more about the social scene. My friends and I would stroll endless laps around the track surrounding the field, our conversations filled with teenage gossip and hopeful glances towards that one cute boy from fifth period. The marching band played, cheerleaders chanted, and the game unfolded, largely unwatched by us. Who truly focused on the game when there was so much else to experience?

But beyond the friendships and the adolescent crushes, there was one undeniable highlight: the concession stand. The long queues were always worth it for a slice of greasy pizza, a basket of fries, and that iconic styrofoam cup filled with what we proclaimed was the “best hot chocolate ever.” In hindsight, it was probably just instant mix, brought to life with boiling water, but to my 15-year-old self, it was pure comfort. It warmed my hands on chilly evenings, provided a perfect prop for our leisurely walks, and tasted like pure bliss.

While my appreciation for gourmet hot chocolate and artisanal pizza has thankfully evolved since then, my ability to intently watch a football game hasn’t changed much. And I can no longer blame it on chatty friends! I’ll sit down to be social, making an effort to follow the little oblong, stitched ball as it flies across the field, and the bulky men chasing it. But honestly, it’s a challenge to get truly invested. My husband, Dan, often chuckles when my cheers or boos are comically delayed, or worse, directed at the wrong team. Yes, that happens more often than I’d like to admit!

So, these days, my typical game-watching experience involves more observing and less yelling, often chatting with anyone else who isn’t completely absorbed in the screen. This year, I decided to elevate my “game day game” by preparing something truly delicious and wholesome to snack on. Instead of reaching for processed, greasy options, I wanted a dish that offered both flavor and nutrition. And that’s where this incredible pairing comes in.

If you’ve never experienced the magic of yam fries served with creamy hummus, consider today your lucky day! Think of sweet potatoes and chickpeas – a combination that, once tried, feels like it was always meant to be. This delightful snack is entirely oil-free and brimming with nutritious, whole food goodness. It’s a far cry from the concession stand treats of my youth, yet it still delivers on comfort and satisfaction. The best part? It all comes together in about 30 minutes, allowing you more time to enjoy the game (or the company!).

Why You’ll Love These Oil-Free Tri-Spiced Yam Fries

One of my favorite aspects of baking sweet potato and yam fries is how beautifully they soften and brown without needing any added oil. Many people are surprised to learn that you can achieve wonderfully crispy and tender fries without a drop of extra fat. Yams naturally contain sugars that caramelize when roasted, creating a delicious texture and enhancing their inherent sweetness. Our special “tri-spice” blend elevates these fries from simple baked vegetables to an incredibly flavorful, complex carb treat. With a mix of smoked paprika, curry powder, and cinnamon, each bite offers a delightful balance of smoky, earthy, and warm notes. A scattering of fresh herbs at the end adds a vibrant touch and a burst of freshness.

These fries are so irresistible, you’ll find yourself eating them by the handful straight from the baking sheet. They’re not only delicious but also packed with dietary fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them a smart choice for a snack or a side. Whether you’re making them for a party or a quiet evening at home, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. For optimal crispiness, remember not to overcrowd your baking sheet; giving them space allows the hot air to circulate and achieve that perfect browning.

Crafting the Perfect Oil-Free Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

I admit I was a little hesitant to share my hummus recipe. Hummus, to me, is an incredibly personal thing – like a culinary fingerprint. Everyone has their own preferences, right? For instance, I prefer mine extra lemony, with just a subtle hint of garlic, and a generous kick of spice. I’m sure you have your unique taste, too, with a specific blend of spices and flavorings that makes it “yours.” I’m always fine-tuning my own blend to perfection.

This roasted red pepper hummus, however, is a revelation. The roasted red pepper adds a wonderful smoky sweetness and a vibrant color that makes it stand out. It brings an extra layer of depth to the classic hummus profile, complementing the savory notes of the chickpeas and tahini beautifully. The combination of fresh lemon juice, a touch of garlic powder (or a fresh clove), smoked paprika, and cumin creates a harmonious and addictive dip. The beauty of homemade hummus is its customizable nature: you can adjust the lemon for brightness, add more paprika or cumin for a spicier kick, or a pinch of cayenne for a touch of heat. And, of course, you control the consistency by adding water until it reaches your desired creaminess.

These two recipes, the tri-spiced yam fries and the roasted red pepper hummus, are staples in my kitchen, and I’ve packaged them together in this post to make your snacking, especially for events like the Super Bowl, utterly effortless and delicious! Of course, they are equally delightful enjoyed separately. The fries make an excellent dippable snack or a hearty accompaniment to any dinner. The hummus? You know the drill – spread it on everything! Think wraps, sandwiches, veggie platters, or simply enjoyed by the spoonful. Its versatility is truly unmatched.

For the yam fries, if Japanese yams aren’t available at your local grocery store, don’t worry! Regular yams or sweet potatoes will work perfectly as a substitute. Just keep in mind that the cook time might be slightly shorter depending on the variety and thickness of your cuts. And regarding the hummus, while the roasted red pepper adds an amazing depth of flavor, if you don’t have any on hand, you can absolutely omit it. The hummus will still be wonderfully flavorful and creamy, a testament to the simplicity and elegance of its core ingredients.

This recipe offers a fantastic way to enjoy classic comfort food in a healthier, oil-free format. It proves that wholesome eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a nutritious after-school snack, or simply craving something delicious, these tri-spiced yam fries and roasted red pepper hummus are a perfect choice. They are naturally vegan and gluten-free, catering to a wide range of dietary needs without compromising on taste.

If you give these Tri-Spiced Yam Fries & Roasted Red Pepper Hummus a try, I’d absolutely love to hear from you! Your feedback helps me create even more delicious recipes. Be sure to leave a comment, rating, and review below. And if you share your culinary creations on social media, give me a shout on Instagram and use #floraandvino so I can see your beautiful dishes!

Don’t forget to check out my Pinterest page to pin this recipe and discover other healthy, flavorful options to make later. For more fantastic oil-free fry pairings, you might also enjoy my Oil-Free Purple Sweet Potato Fries with Beetchup. They’re another colorful and nutritious favorite!

If you’ve loved this post and are eager for more wholesome deliciousness, head over to my homepage and subscribe to get delectable recipes delivered straight to your inbox! Happy cooking!

XO Lauren

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