Hummus (Classic and Flavored)
A versatile Mediterranean dip that's perfect as a healthy appetizer, snack, or spread. This recipe includes the classic version plus five delicious flavor variations!
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 0 minutes mins
Resting Time 30 minutes mins
Total Time 10 minutes mins
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine Mediterranean, Middle Eastern
Servings 6 servings
Calories 120 kcal
Food Processor
Measuring Spoons
Serving Bowl
Classic Hummus
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas drained and rinsed (reserve liquid)
- 3 tablespoons tahini substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice approximately 1 medium lemon
- 2 cloves garlic minced (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil plus more for serving
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2-3 tablespoons reserved chickpea liquid or water as needed for consistency
- paprika, chopped parsley, pine nuts, olive oil drizzle for garnish (optional)
Flavor Variations (Optional)
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers drained (for Roasted Red Pepper variation)
- 1/3 cup cooked spinach for Spinach Artichoke variation
- 1/4 cup marinated artichoke hearts for Spinach Artichoke variation
- 1-2 jalapeños seeded (for Spicy Jalapeño variation)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for Spicy Jalapeño variation
- 1/2 cup roasted beetroot for Beetroot variation
- 1/2 ripe avocado for Avocado variation (replace 2 tablespoons of tahini)
Drain chickpeas, reserving the liquid (aquafaba). For ultra-smooth hummus, take an extra 5 minutes to remove the skins by gently pinching each chickpea. If you're short on time, skip this step for a more rustic texture.
In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and cumin.
Pulse several times, then process continuously for 1-2 minutes until smooth. Scrape down the sides as needed. If the mixture appears too thick, gradually add reserved chickpea liquid or water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Taste your hummus and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more lemon juice for brightness, salt for flavor depth, or garlic for punch.
For flavored variations, add your chosen ingredients now and process until fully incorporated.
Transfer hummus to a serving bowl, create a shallow well in the center, and drizzle with olive oil. For classic presentation, sprinkle with paprika and chopped parsley. Allow to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to intensify flavors before serving.
Store hummus in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent oxidation. Refrigerate for up to 5 days, though flavor peaks within the first 48 hours.
For meal prep efficiency, hummus freezes well for up to 3 months. Portion into silicone ice cube trays, freeze, then transfer to freezer bags for individual servings. Allow to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then re-blend with a splash of olive oil to restore creaminess.
For professional-level smoothness: remove chickpea skins, process for at least 3 minutes continuously, and serve at room temperature.
Calories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 3.5gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 180mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1g
Keyword Hummus, Healthy Dip, Vegetarian Appetizer, Chickpea Dip