Quick And Simple Hummus Recipe

This recipe for hummus has quickly become my go-to because it’s incredibly easy to make and way healthier than store-bought options. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about whipping up this creamy, lemony goodness that pairs perfectly with just about everything—from pita bread to a veggie platter.

I enjoy making recipes that are genuinely tasty and good for you, and this Quick and Simple Hummus Recipe is just that. Not only is it healthful (chickpeas, check; tahini, check; fresh lemon juice, check), but it is quite possibly the easiest hummus recipe I’ve ever encountered.

The only two steps—pureeing the ingredients in a food processor and then drizzling in a bit of olive oil—make it a perfect diversion for a row of students cooking under the pressure of a timed class.

Ingredients

Chickpeas are rich in protein and fiber and help with digestion.

Lemon juice: Bright, zesty flavor, and a rich source of vitamin C.

Tahini, which has a nutty and creamy quality, contains healthy fats and a good amount of calcium.

Garlic: Imparts a sharp, flavorful taste while being a good source of antioxidants.

Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Contains an abundance of healthy fats that are good for the heart.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 can (15 ounces) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice (1 large lemon)
• 1/4 cup of tahini
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin
• Salt to taste
• 2 to 3 tablespoons of water
• Dash of ground paprika, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. In a food processor, mix the tahini and lemon juice. Process for 1 minute until smooth and creamy; and if necessary, pause to scrape down the sides.

2. Add the olive oil, garlic, cumin, and salt to the tahini and lemon mixture. Process for an additional 30 seconds, scraping the sides if needed.

3. Place the drained and rinsed chickpeas in the food processor, adding them in two parts. Process the chickpeas for a minute or until they reach a well-combined, pasty state.

4. As the food processor operates, add 2 to 3 tablespoons of water in a slow, steady stream to achieve the desired consistency of the hummus. You can control the thickness of the hummus (or any dip, really) by altering the amount of liquid you add.

5. If necessary, taste and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or lemon juice.

6. Hummus served in a bowl is a real crowd-pleaser, and you are going to want to serve this dish to as many people as possible, since it’s so good and also incredibly healthy. The following steps outline how to achieve the delightful texture and flavor of hummus, and how to do it in a way that makes the serving dish deliciously attractive.

7. Pour a tablespoon or more of olive oil over the hummus and drizzle.

8. If desired, sprinkle a dash of paprika over the top for garnish.

9. Serve right away or chill it for up to one week. Let it reach room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

10. Relish your hummus with pita, veggies, or as a sandwich spread.

Equipment Needed

1. Food processor
2. Measuring cups
3. Measuring spoons
4. Knife
5. Cutting board
6. Spatula or spoon (for scraping and mixing)
7. Serving bowl
8. Spoon or small ladle (for drizzling olive oil)
9. Citrus juicer (optional, for fresh lemon juice)

FAQ

• Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
  Yes, simply soak and cook approximately 3/4 cup of dried chickpeas to yield the equivalent of a 15-ounce can.
• What can I substitute for tahini?
  You can use peanut butter or sunflower seed butter as a substitute, although it will slightly alter the taste.
• How do I make the hummus smoother?
  Peel the chickpeas by pinching off their skins before blending, or blend them for a longer time.
• Can I store leftover hummus, and for how long?
  Yes, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• Is it possible to make hummus without a food processor?
  Yes, you can use a blender, but you may need to add more water to help it blend.
• Can I add other flavors to this hummus recipe?
  Absolutely! Try adding roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh herbs for variation.
• Is the olive oil necessary?
  Olive oil adds richness and flavor, but can be omitted or replaced with a small amount of water if desired.

Substitutions and Variations

Lemon juice: Replace with an equal quantity of lime juice or apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile.
Smooth peanut butter or Greek yogurt can stand in for tahini in equal amounts, yielding a creamy texture in whatever dish this common Middle Eastern ingredient is called for.
Garlic: If fresh garlic is not available, use 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder.
Olive oil, extra virgin: Substitute the same amount with either avocado oil or canola oil.
Ground cumin: Substitute with an equal amount of ground coriander, or use paprika. Cumin is quite unique, so don’t hesitate to try something different if you find it necessary.

Pro Tips

1. Peel the Chickpeas For an extra smooth and creamy hummus, take the time to peel the chickpeas. This can be done by gently rubbing them with your fingers or between paper towels after rinsing, which helps remove their skins.

2. Ice Water Trick Instead of regular water, try adding ice-cold water to the food processor. This can help whip the hummus and make it even creamier and fluffier.

3. Roast the Garlic For a subtle, sweeter garlic flavor, consider roasting the garlic clove before adding it to the food processor. This will reduce the pungency and add an additional layer of flavor.

4. Use Quality Tahini The quality of tahini can greatly affect the flavor of your hummus. Opt for a good brand that is fresh, as this will contribute to a richer, more authentic taste.

5. Adjust Seasonings Always taste your hummus before serving and adjust the salt, lemon juice, and even olive oil according to your preference. A little extra lemon can brighten the flavor, while a touch more salt can enhance the overall taste.