Vegetarian Hummus Recipe Made Easy and Delicious

Hummus is a beloved Middle Eastern dip that has won hearts all over the world, and for good reason. Creamy, flavorful, and packed with protein, it’s a perfect snack, appetizer, or even a meal component for vegetarians and vegans alike.

Making your own vegetarian hummus at home is incredibly easy and rewarding. You can control the flavors, avoid preservatives, and customize it exactly to your taste.

Whether you’re a hummus enthusiast or a newbie, this recipe will guide you through creating a smooth, delicious, and wholesome dip that’s perfect for everything from pita bread to veggie sticks.

In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the perfect vegetarian hummus, including why this recipe stands out, the ingredients and equipment required, simple instructions, and tips for variations.

Plus, you’ll find serving suggestions and nutritional info so you can enjoy your hummus guilt-free.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian hummus recipe is a fantastic addition to your kitchen repertoire for many reasons. First, it uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand, making it convenient and budget-friendly.

The creamy texture and tangy flavor come from using fresh lemon juice and tahini, while the garlic and olive oil provide a rich, robust taste that’s just right.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a dip, spread, or even a salad dressing base.

It’s also naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and packed with plant-based protein and fiber, making it a healthy snack for all ages. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up and endlessly customizable, this is it!

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas (also called garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
• 1/4 cup tahini (sesame seed paste)
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon)
• 2 to 3 tablespoons cold water
• Optional garnish: paprika, chopped parsley, whole chickpeas, or pine nuts

Equipment

• Food processor or high-speed blender
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Citrus juicer (optional but helpful)
• Spatula for scraping down the sides
• Serving bowl

Instructions

1. Prepare your chickpeas: Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas thoroughly under cold water. If you prefer an even creamier texture, you can peel the skins off each chickpea, but this step is optional and time-consuming.
2. Combine tahini and lemon juice: In your food processor, add the tahini and fresh lemon juice. Process for about 30 seconds, then scrape down the sides and process for another 30 seconds. This step helps whip the tahini, making the hummus smooth and creamy.
3. Add garlic, cumin, and salt: Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, and salt to the tahini-lemon mixture. Process again for 30 seconds to blend all the flavors.
4. Add chickpeas: Add half of the chickpeas to the food processor and process for 1 minute. Then add the remaining chickpeas and process until smooth, about 1 to 2 minutes more. Stop occasionally to scrape down the sides with a spatula to ensure even blending.
5. Add olive oil and water: While the processor is running, slowly add 2 tablespoons of cold water and the olive oil. Continue blending until the hummus reaches your desired creamy consistency. If it’s still too thick, add an additional tablespoon of water.
6. Taste and adjust: Taste your hummus and add more salt, lemon juice, or garlic as needed. Blend again for a few seconds after adding any extra ingredients.
7. Serve: Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle with a little olive oil and garnish with paprika, chopped parsley, pine nuts, or whole chickpeas for a beautiful presentation.

Tips & Variations

“For the creamiest hummus, consider peeling the chickpeas, or use aquafaba (the chickpea liquid) instead of water for extra smoothness.”

• Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Add 1/2 cup roasted red peppers to the food processor for a smoky, sweet twist.
• Spicy Hummus: Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Herb Hummus: Blend in fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or basil for a bright, fresh flavor.
• Beet Hummus: Add 1/2 cup cooked beets for a vibrant color and earthy taste.
• Make it nutty: Substitute tahini with almond or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor profile.

Nutrition Facts

This hummus is a nutrient-dense food that offers a good balance of healthy fats, fiber, and protein. It’s an excellent source of plant-based protein and complex carbohydrates, making it ideal for vegetarians looking for energy and satiety.

Serving Suggestions

Hummus is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many dishes. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy this vegetarian hummus:

• As a dip with fresh vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes.
• Spread on warm pita bread or toasted baguette slices for a simple appetizer.
• As a sandwich spread or wrap filling with fresh greens and roasted veggies.
• Drizzled over grain bowls or salads to add creaminess and flavor.
• Served alongside falafel or grilled vegetables for a complete Middle Eastern-inspired meal.
• Try it as a topping for baked potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes for a nutritious upgrade.

If you’re interested in exploring more delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes, check out these recipes:

• Vegetarian Middle Eastern Recipes for Easy, Flavorful Meals
• Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious
• Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes

Conclusion

Making your own vegetarian hummus is a fun and rewarding way to enjoy a classic, healthy dip that’s rich in flavor and simple to prepare. With just a few key ingredients like chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, you can create a creamy hummus that’s perfect for snacking, entertaining, or adding a protein boost to your meals.

The best part is how customizable it is—you can tweak the flavors to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Whether you’re new to making hummus or a seasoned pro, this recipe offers a reliable base that’s delicious and nutritious. Plus, it encourages the use of wholesome, plant-based ingredients, making it a fantastic addition to any vegetarian or vegan lifestyle.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with the variations and serving ideas mentioned above to keep your hummus experience exciting and fresh. Enjoy!

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