The Best Classic Hummus Recipe: Creamy, Healthy & Easy to Make

Hummus is a delicious and healthy Mediterranean dip that’s incredibly easy to make at home. This classic hummus recipe is smooth, creamy, and packed with flavor from fresh lemon juice, tahini, and olive oil. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack, a dip for veggies, or a spread for sandwiches, this quick and easy hummus recipe is sure to become a favorite! Plus, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a perfect option for any diet.

Ingredients for Classic Hummus Recipe

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas (canned or freshly cooked)
• 1/4 cup creamy tahini (sesame paste)
• 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (or 1 small clove garlic, minced)
• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil (plus more for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cold water as needed (to adjust consistency)

Optional Garnishes:

• Extra olive oil
• Paprika
• Fresh parsley

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Step-by-Step Instructions

• Drain and rinse the cooked chickpeas if using canned. If you want an extra smooth texture, peel the chickpeas by gently rubbing them in a towel to remove the skins.
• In a food processor, add the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic powder, and olive oil. Process for about 1 minute, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure everything blends evenly.
• While the processor is running, slowly add cold water (1 tablespoon at a time) to achieve your desired creamy consistency. Typically, 2-3 tablespoons will make the hummus smooth, but you can add more if needed.
• Add salt and pepper to taste, then blend again to mix the seasoning thoroughly. Taste and adjust as needed, adding more lemon juice, garlic, or salt based on your preference.
• Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl, drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil, and sprinkle with paprika or fresh parsley for garnish if desired.
• Serve with pita bread, fresh veggies, or use as a spread for wraps and sandwiches.

Tips for Making the Creamiest Hummus

• Peel the Chickpeas: For an ultra-smooth texture, peel the skins off the chickpeas. While it’s a bit more effort, removing the skins makes a noticeable difference in creaminess.
• Use Ice-Cold Water: Adding cold water (or ice cubes) while blending helps achieve a fluffy, creamy texture. It also keeps the tahini from thickening too much.
• Blend Longer: Don’t rush the blending process. Let the food processor run for at least 2-3 minutes. This allows the ingredients to break down fully and create that velvety smooth consistency.
• Adjust Tahini and Lemon: If you like your hummus extra creamy, you can add an extra tablespoon of tahini. Likewise, a bit more lemon juice can enhance both texture and flavor.
• Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice, quality tahini, and good olive oil make a huge difference in taste and texture. Avoid using bottled lemon juice for the best results.

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Serving Suggestions

• With Fresh Vegetables: Serve your hummus as a healthy dip for crunchy veggies like carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, and celery.
• Pita Bread or Chips: Enjoy hummus with warm pita bread, pita chips, or flatbread for a classic Mediterranean pairing.
• As a Sandwich Spread: Spread it on wraps, sandwiches, or toast as a creamy, flavorful alternative to mayo or butter.
• Mediterranean Bowl: Add a scoop of hummus to a bowl with quinoa, roasted vegetables, olives, and grilled chicken or falafel for a hearty Mediterranean meal.
• With Grilled Meats: Use it as a flavorful side dip for grilled chicken, lamb, or beef skewers.
• Topped with Extras: Drizzle olive oil over the hummus and top with garnishes like pine nuts, za’atar, or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and texture.

If you love this classic hummus recipe, be sure to share it with friends and family! Don’t forget to leave a comment below with your thoughts or any creative twists you tried. For more delicious and easy recipes like this, subscribe to our newsletter and get new ideas delivered straight to your inbox. Follow us on social media for cooking tips, behind-the-scenes, and exclusive content. Let’s make healthy cooking fun and easy together!

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