If you’re craving a creamy, smooth, and delicious spread, look no further than hummus. This classic Middle Eastern dip is made from simple ingredients and can be prepared in just a few minutes. Whether you’re looking for a snack to enjoy with veggies or a creamy topping for your sandwiches, hummus is the answer. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and healthy—what’s not to love?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Hummus takes almost no time to make. With just a few pantry ingredients, you can whip up a batch in under 10 minutes!
Healthy: Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, hummus is not only tasty but also good for you.
Customizable: Hummus can be made to suit any taste! Add garlic, lemon, spices, or even roasted veggies to personalize the flavor to your liking.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a snack, or serving a meal, hummus fits the bill. It’s a crowd-pleaser, too!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this hummus are simple, but the result is anything but bland. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chickpeas: These are the base of your hummus. Canned chickpeas work perfectly fine, but you can also cook dried ones if you have the time.
Tahini: This sesame paste gives hummus its signature creamy texture and nutty flavor. Don’t skip it!
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a nice punch to the dip. You can adjust how much you use depending on your love for garlic.
Olive Oil: Use good quality olive oil for the best taste. It adds richness and smoothness to the hummus.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a tangy kick. It’s a key ingredient for balance.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning to taste. Feel free to adjust based on your preference.
Water or Chickpea Liquid: This is used to thin out the hummus to your desired consistency. If you like a thicker dip, use less liquid.

Variations

Feel free to mix things up and add your own spin to this basic hummus recipe:

Spicy Hummus: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño for a spicy kick.
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Blend in roasted red peppers for a smoky, sweet twist.
Herb Hummus: Add fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or cilantro for a fresh, green flavor.
Smoky Hummus: Add smoked paprika for a slightly smoky and savory flavor profile.
Beetroot Hummus: Add roasted beets for a beautiful color and earthy sweetness.

How to Make Hummus

Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas

If you’re using canned chickpeas, drain and rinse them well to get rid of excess sodium. For extra smooth hummus, you can peel the skins off the chickpeas, though this is optional and can be time-consuming. If you want a smoother texture, you can also save a little bit of the chickpea liquid or use water.

Step 2: Blend the Ingredients

In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. If the mixture is too thick, add a bit of water or the reserved chickpea liquid, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 3: Taste and Adjust

Taste your hummus and adjust the seasoning. Add more salt, garlic, or lemon juice if desired. For extra flavor, sprinkle in some cumin, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper.

Step 4: Serve

Once you have the perfect consistency and flavor, transfer the hummus to a bowl. Drizzle with more olive oil, and sprinkle with additional seasonings, herbs, or even some pine nuts for a crunchy garnish.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

For Extra Smoothness: Remove the skins from the chickpeas before blending. It may take a little longer, but the result is a super creamy hummus.
Chill Before Serving: For the best flavor, let your hummus sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice really makes a difference in terms of brightness and tanginess compared to bottled juice.
Customize Texture: If you prefer a thicker hummus, reduce the amount of liquid you add. If you like it thinner, add more water or liquid from the chickpeas.

How to Serve

Hummus is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of foods. Here’s how to serve it:

Dipping:

Serve your hummus with fresh vegetables like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips. Pita bread or crispy pita chips are also a great option for dipping.

On Toast:

Spread hummus on toast for a simple and satisfying snack. Top with sliced avocado, a sprinkle of chili flakes, or some microgreens for added flavor.

As a Spread:

Use hummus as a spread on sandwiches, wraps, or burgers. It works wonderfully in place of mayo or mustard for a healthier option.

As a Side:

Serve hummus alongside grilled meats, falafel, or a Mediterranean salad for a balanced meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Hummus can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Be sure to drizzle a little olive oil on top before sealing it for extra freshness.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze hummus! Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just let it thaw in the fridge before serving, and give it a good stir.

Reheating

Hummus is best served cold or at room temperature. If it’s been refrigerated, just let it sit out for a bit before enjoying. If it’s been frozen, thaw it overnight and stir to bring back its creamy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I make hummus without tahini? Yes, if you’re out of tahini or prefer not to use it, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a creamy texture or olive oil for a rich, smooth consistency.

2. How can I make hummus spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chili flakes during the blending process. You can also blend in roasted red peppers or jalapeños for an extra kick.

3. Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned? Absolutely! If you use dried chickpeas, make sure to soak them overnight and cook them thoroughly before blending. Canned chickpeas are just a quicker alternative.

4. Can I use a blender instead of a food processor? Yes, you can use a blender, but a food processor will give you a creamier, smoother texture. If using a blender, you may need to add a bit more liquid to help it blend properly.

Final Thoughts

Hummus is one of those recipes that’s simple yet so satisfying. It’s a great dip, spread, or snack that can be enjoyed by everyone. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes, you’ve got a delicious, homemade treat. So why not give it a try? You might find yourself making hummus every week!

Hummus Recipe