12 Hummus Recipes: Diverse Flavors for Every Palate
Hummus is a staple in many kitchens because of its creamy texture and versatile nature. I find it to be both a delightful snack and a key component in various dishes.
The beauty of hummus is that it can be customized with different flavors, making it an exciting option for all taste buds.
Throughout my kitchen explorations, I have discovered several ways to enjoy this Mediterranean dip. From classic versions to more adventurous variations, hummus can be a canvas for culinary creativity.
1: Classic Chickpea Hummus
I often start with dry chickpeas, soaking them overnight until they plump up. After cooking them, I blend them with tahini, lemon juice, and garlic.
Adding olive oil and a bit of cold water gives it the perfect creamy texture. It’s simple, flavorful, and always a hit.
Classic Chickpea Hummus
Ingredients
- 1 cup dry chickpeas
- 1/2 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2-3 tablespoons cold water (as needed)
- Salt to taste
- Ground cumin (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Soak the dry chickpeas overnight in plenty of water. The next day, drain and rinse them.
- In a large pot, cover the chickpeas with water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 1 hour or until tender. Drain the chickpeas and let them cool slightly.
- In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. Process until smooth.
- While the processor is running, slowly add the olive oil and a bit of cold water until the hummus reaches your desired creamy consistency.
- Season with salt and ground cumin (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with a little extra olive oil if desired, and serve with pita bread or fresh vegetables.
2: Red Pepper Hummus
I love making red pepper hummus. It’s creamy, sweet, and smoky. I puree roasted red peppers with chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice in a food processor.
The blend turns smooth and tasty, perfect as a dip or spread.
Red Pepper Hummus
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 1/2 cup tahini
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Ground cumin (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, roasted red peppers, lemon juice, and garlic.
- Process until smooth. While the processor is running, slowly add the olive oil until the hummus reaches your desired creamy consistency.
- Season with salt and ground cumin (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Transfer to a serving bowl and drizzle with a little extra olive oil if desired. Serve with pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
3: Roasted Garlic Hummus
I love roasting garlic to soften and sweeten it. The roasted garlic blends perfectly with chickpeas and tahini to create a smooth, flavorful hummus.
I usually add lemon juice and olive oil for extra zest and richness. It’s one of my favorite simple recipes!
Roasted Garlic Hummus
Ingredients
- 1 head of garlic
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 1/2 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Ground cumin (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off the head of garlic to expose the cloves. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and wrap in foil. Roast in the oven for about 40 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and caramelized.
- Allow the roasted garlic to cool slightly, then squeeze the cloves out of their skins and set aside.
- In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, roasted garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Process until smooth.
- Season with salt and ground cumin (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Transfer to a serving bowl and drizzle with a little extra olive oil if desired. Serve with pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
4: Beetroot Hummus
I love making beetroot hummus for its vibrant color and unique taste. It all starts with roasting beets. This softens them and brings out a sweet flavor.
I blend roasted beets with chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic until smooth. Adding a bit of olive oil makes it extra creamy.
Beetroot Hummus
Ingredients
- 2 medium beets
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap the beets in foil and roast them in the oven for about 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Let them cool slightly, then peel and chop.
- In a food processor, combine the roasted beets, chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Process until smooth.
- With the processor running, slowly add the olive oil until fully incorporated and the hummus is creamy.
- Season with salt to taste. Adjust lemon juice and garlic if needed.
- Transfer to a serving bowl and serve with pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables. Enjoy the vibrant and delicious beetroot hummus!
5: Avocado Hummus
I love making avocado hummus because it’s creamy and delicious. It’s perfect for dipping with chips or veggies.
The blend of chickpeas and avocado creates a smooth texture. It’s easy to make and always a hit at parties. Enjoy a tasty twist on a classic dip!
Avocado Hummus
Ingredients
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Optional: a pinch of cumin or paprika for extra flavor
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine the ripe avocado, chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Process until smooth.
- With the processor running, slowly add the olive oil until fully incorporated and the hummus is creamy.
- Season with salt to taste. For additional flavor, add a pinch of cumin or paprika if desired.
- Transfer to a serving bowl and enjoy with chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
6: Cilantro Lime Hummus
I love making Cilantro Lime Hummus because it’s fresh and flavorful. The blend of lime juice and cilantro creates a bright taste that pairs well with the smooth texture of the chickpeas.
This hummus goes perfectly with veggies or chips for a quick and tasty snack.
Cilantro Lime Hummus
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, lime juice, cilantro, and minced garlic. Process until smooth.
- With the processor running, slowly add the olive oil until fully incorporated and the hummus is creamy.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Transfer to a serving bowl and enjoy with veggies or chips.
7: Spinach and Artichoke Hummus
I love how Spinach and Artichoke Hummus blends creamy chickpeas with healthy greens. The spinach adds a fresh taste, while artichokes bring a tangy twist.
A splash of lemon juice and garlic boosts the flavor. This delightful hummus is perfect for dipping or spreading on sandwiches.
Spinach and Artichoke Hummus
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine chickpeas, spinach, artichoke hearts, tahini, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Process until smooth.
- With the processor running, slowly add the olive oil until fully incorporated and the hummus is creamy.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Transfer to a serving bowl and enjoy with veggies or as a spread.
8: Sweet Potato Hummus
I love experimenting with different hummus flavors, and sweet potato hummus offers a delightful twist with its creamy texture and rich taste. To prepare it, I roast the sweet potatoes until tender.
Then, I blend them with chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and seasoning for a smooth and tasty dip perfect for any occasion.
Sweet Potato Hummus
Ingredients
- 1 large sweet potato
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast the sweet potato until tender, about 45 minutes. Allow to cool, then peel and mash.
- In a food processor, combine the mashed sweet potato, chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and ground cumin (if using). Process until smooth.
- With the processor running, slowly add the olive oil until fully incorporated and the hummus is creamy.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Transfer to a serving bowl and enjoy with veggies, pita, or as a spread.
9: Pumpkin Hummus
I’ve discovered that pumpkin hummus combines traditional chickpeas with a touch of autumn. I mix in pumpkin puree, garlic, and lemon juice, balancing flavors for a creamy dip.
A sprinkle of paprika and crunchy pumpkin seeds on top adds flair, making it a delightful treat for fall gatherings.
Pumpkin Hummus
Ingredients
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt to taste
- Paprika and pumpkin seeds for garnish
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine the pumpkin puree, chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, and ground cinnamon. Process until smooth.
- With the processor running, slowly add the olive oil until fully incorporated and the hummus is creamy.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Transfer to a serving bowl, and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika and pumpkin seeds.
- Enjoy with veggies, pita, or as a spread.
10: Black Bean Hummus
I love making black bean hummus because it’s a tasty twist on the classic. With ingredients like black beans, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, it’s simple and healthy.
It’s smooth, flavorful, and perfect for dipping veggies or spreading on wraps.
Black Bean Hummus
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine black beans, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and ground cumin. Process until smooth.
- With the processor running, slowly add olive oil until fully incorporated and the hummus is creamy.
- Season with salt to taste. If using, add smoked paprika for extra flavor.
- Transfer to a serving bowl. Serve with veggies, pita, or as a spread.
11: Edamame Hummus
I love to mix things up with my hummus recipes. Edamame hummus is a tasty twist. It combines the creaminess of tahini and the freshness of lemon juice.
The edamame gives it a bright green color and a unique flavor. It’s a great option for parties or snacks.
Edamame Hummus
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked edamame (shelled)
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed for consistency
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine edamame, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and ground cumin. Process until smooth.
- With the processor running, slowly add olive oil until fully incorporated and the hummus is creamy.
- If needed, add water a tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Transfer to a serving bowl. Serve with veggies, pita, or as a spread.
12: Sun-Dried Tomato Hummus
I love making Sun-Dried Tomato Hummus; it’s packed with flavor.
The addition of sun-dried tomatoes gives the usual chickpea blend a rich, tangy twist. Whether served as a dip or a spread, it adds a vibrant note to any meal.
Sun-Dried Tomato Hummus
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed or rehydrated)
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed for consistency
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine chickpeas, sun-dried tomatoes, tahini, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Process until smooth.
- With the processor running, slowly add olive oil until fully incorporated and the hummus is creamy.
- If needed, add water a tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Transfer to a serving bowl. Serve with veggies, pita, or as a spread.
The Basics of Hummus
Hummus, a creamy dip or spread originating in the Middle East, has become a popular staple worldwide. This simple yet delicious dish is made from a few basic ingredients, making it easy to prepare and customize to suit individual tastes.
Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, is the foundation of any hummus recipe. These protein-rich legumes are cooked and blended to create a smooth, thick paste. Canned chickpeas are often used for convenience, but starting with dried chickpeas that have been soaked and cooked can result in a more flavorful hummus.
Tahini, a paste made from ground sesame seeds, is another essential ingredient in traditional hummus recipes. It adds a nutty, slightly bitter flavor and contributes to the dip’s creamy texture. High-quality tahini is key to making exceptional hummus.
Fresh lemon juice is a crucial component, providing a bright, citrusy tang that balances the richness of the chickpeas and tahini. The acidity also helps to bring out the other flavors in the dish.
Garlic, either raw or roasted, is a common addition to hummus. It adds a spicy, aromatic flavor that complements the other ingredients. The amount of garlic used can be adjusted based on personal preference.
Salt season the hummus and enhance the overall flavor profile. Some recipes may also call for additional spices like cumin, paprika, or cayenne pepper to add depth and complexity.
Extra virgin olive oil is often drizzled on the finished hummus or incorporated into the mixture to create a smoother, richer texture. High-quality olive oil can significantly impact the flavor of the final product.
To make hummus, the cooked chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and any additional flavoring agents are blended in a food processor or high-powered blender until smooth and creamy. The consistency can be adjusted by adding more liquid (such as water or aquafaba, the liquid from the cooked chickpeas) or tahini.
Hummus is typically served as a dip with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers, but it can also be spread on sandwiches or wraps. Garnishes like a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of paprika, or chopped parsley can add visual appeal and extra flavor.
While traditional hummus recipes are relatively simple, countless variations incorporate different flavors, such as roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or even chocolate. Hummus’ versatility allows for endless creativity in the kitchen.
Essential Ingredients For Hummus
Hummus, a beloved Middle Eastern dip, is renowned for its creamy texture and savory flavor. To create the perfect hummus, having the right ingredients on hand is crucial. Here’s a list of the essential components you’ll need to make this delectable dish.
Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, is the foundation of any good hummus. These protein-packed legumes provide the bulk and body of the dip. You can use canned chickpeas for convenience, but for the best flavor and texture, start with dried chickpeas that have been soaked and cooked until tender.
Tahini, a paste made from ground sesame seeds, is a key ingredient in hummus. Its characteristic nutty flavor and smooth consistency give it its best results. Look for high-quality, pure tahini without any added oils or flavors.
Fresh lemon juice is essential for adding brightness and acidity to the hummus. It helps to balance the richness of the chickpeas and tahini, and brings out the other flavors in the dish. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the most vibrant taste.
Garlic is a crucial component in most hummus recipes. It adds a pungent, aromatic flavor that complements the other ingredients. You can use raw garlic for a more assertive taste, or roast it for a milder, sweeter profile.
Salt is essential for seasoning hummus and enhancing its overall flavor. Use a good-quality salt, such as sea salt or kosher salt, and adjust the amount to your liking.
Extra virgin olive oil is often used in hummus recipes, either drizzled on top of the finished product or incorporated into the mixture. It adds richness and depth to the flavor, and helps to create a smoother, creamier texture. Choose a high-quality olive oil for the best results.
While not essential, additional spices and herbs can be used to customize the flavor of your hummus.
Common additions include ground cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, or fresh parsley. These ingredients can add depth, complexity, and a personal touch to your hummus creation.
Finally, while not an ingredient per se, a food processor or high-powered blender is a necessary tool for achieving the perfect creamy consistency. It allows you to blend the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and other ingredients until they form a smooth, homogeneous mixture.
By keeping these essential ingredients on hand, you’ll be well-equipped to make delicious, authentic hummus at home.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with different flavor combinations, the key to great hummus is using high-quality, fresh ingredients and adjusting the proportions to suit your taste preferences.
