5-Minute Lemony Hummus
This 5-minute lemony hummus is a creamy, vibrant, and incredibly easy-to-make dip that's perfect for a quick snack or a versatile spread. It's packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying addition to any meal.
For 4 servings
Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas thoroughly. For an exceptionally smooth hummus, gently rub the chickpeas between your hands under running water to remove most of their skins, then discard the skins.
In the bowl of a food processor, combine the drained chickpeas, tahini, fresh lemon juice, peeled garlic clove, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
Process the mixture for 1-2 minutes, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed, until the mixture is mostly smooth but still quite thick.
With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in 2 tablespoons of ice cold water. Continue to process for another 2-3 minutes, adding up to 2 more tablespoons of water, one tablespoon at a time, until the hummus reaches your desired creamy and light consistency.
Taste the hummus and adjust seasoning if necessary. You may want to add more salt, lemon juice, or even a tiny pinch of ground cumin for extra depth of flavor.
Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Create a shallow well in the center with the back of a spoon.
Drizzle generously with additional extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with smoked paprika before serving.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the creamiest hummus, take the extra step to remove the skins from the chickpeas. This simple trick makes a noticeable difference in texture.
- 2Using ice cold water helps to create a lighter, fluffier hummus. The cold temperature can prevent the tahini from seizing and helps emulsify the mixture better.
- 3Always use good quality tahini. A high-quality, smooth tahini made from hulled sesame seeds will yield a much better flavor and texture than cheaper, grittier varieties.
- 4Don't be afraid to adjust seasonings. Hummus is very forgiving. Taste and add more lemon juice for brightness, salt for balance, or even a pinch of cayenne for a subtle kick.
Adapt it for your goals.
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Add 1/2 cup of roasted red peppers (from a jar, drained) to the food processor along with the other ingredients for a sweet and smoky variation.
Spicy HummusSpicy Hummus
Incorporate 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce into the blend for a fiery kick.
Herbaceous HummusHerbaceous Hummus
Blend in 1/4 cup of fresh parsley or cilantro for a vibrant, fresh, and aromatic twist.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, essential for muscle repair and growth, making this hummus a great option for vegetarians and vegans.
High in Dietary Fiber
The high fiber content from chickpeas aids in digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels, contributing to overall gut health.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Olive oil and tahini provide monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and can help reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Frequently asked questions
While a food processor is ideal for the creamiest texture, you can use a high-speed blender. You might need to add a little more liquid and stop frequently to scrape down the sides.
