Hummus
Creamy, smooth chickpea dip with a bright lemon-garlic flavor and a whisper of nutty tahini. This Middle Eastern staple takes 10 minutes to blitz together and tastes infinitely better than store-bought. Serve it with warm pita bread, crunchy vegetables, or as a spread for sandwiches.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~5 min
Peel the chickpeas for the smoothest texture.
1.Rinse the cooked chickpeas under cool water and drain well.2.Gently rub handfuls of chickpeas between your fingers to slip off the skins.3.Pick out and discard the loose skins, then set the peeled chickpeas aside.TIPPeeling is optional but makes a noticeably creamier hummus. Pop the skins off while you watch TV. - mix · ~2 min
Blend tahini with lemon juice to lighten it.
1.Add tahini and lemon juice to the food processor.2.Blend for 1 minute until the mixture turns thick and pale in color.3.Scrape down the sides with a spatula.TIPWhipping air into the tahini-lemon base is the secret to that whipped, fluffy hummus texture. - mix · ~1 min
Add garlic, olive oil, salt, and cumin. Blend again.
1.Add the chopped garlic, olive oil, salt, and cumin powder to the food processor.2.Blend for 30 seconds until the garlic is fully incorporated.3.Stop and scrape down the sides. - mix · ~5 min
Add chickpeas and blend to a smooth paste.
1.Add the peeled chickpeas to the food processor.2.Blend for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture looks like a thick, coarse paste.3.With the motor running, drizzle in the ice water one tablespoon at a time.4.Continue blending for 2 to 3 minutes more until the hummus is very smooth and creamy.TIPIce water helps whip the hummus lighter and fluffier. Don't skip it—it makes a real difference. - prep · ~1 min
Taste and adjust the seasoning.
Scrape the hummus into a bowl. Taste and adjust with more salt, lemon juice, or cumin to your preference. Blend again briefly if adding any adjustments.
TIPHummus always tastes better after it sits for 30 minutes. The flavors meld and the garlic bite mellows. - assemble · ~1 min
Transfer to a serving plate and garnish.
1.Spoon the hummus into a shallow serving bowl.2.Use the back of a spoon to swirl a well into the top.3.Drizzle generously with extra olive oil.4.Dust with a pinch of paprika. - serve
Serve at room temperature with warm pita.
Let the hummus sit for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. Serve with warm pita bread, fresh cucumber, carrot sticks, and cherry tomatoes on the side.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Remove chickpea skins for a silky-smooth hummus texture.
- 2Use ice water while blending to make the hummus light and fluffy.
- 3Whip the tahini and lemon juice first to incorporate air for a creamy base.
- 4Let the hummus rest for 30 minutes after blending to let flavors meld.
- 5Drizzle a generous amount of good olive oil on top just before serving.
- 6Store leftover hummus in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Adapt it for your goals.
Roasted Red Pepper
Add 1/2 cup of roasted red peppers to the food processor for a sweet, smoky twist that brightens the color and adds a layer of sweetness.
Spicy HarissaSpicy Harissa
Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of harissa paste after blending for a North African-inspired kick of heat and spice.
Herb & LemonHerb & Lemon
Add a handful of fresh parsley or cilantro leaves and an extra tablespoon of lemon juice for a zesty, herbaceous variation.
Avocado HummusAvocado Hummus
Blend in half a ripe avocado for an extra creamy, nutrient-packed hummus with a buttery finish and a boost of healthy fats.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant Protein
Chickpeas provide a solid source of plant-based protein, helping to keep you full and support muscle repair.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Tahini and olive oil supply unsaturated fats that support cardiovascular health and help absorb fat-soluble vitamins.
Good Source of Fiber
Chickpeas are high in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a healthy gut.
Antioxidant Boost
Garlic, cumin, and olive oil contain antioxidants that help fight inflammation and protect cells from damage.
Frequently asked questions
You likely need more liquid. Blend in an extra tablespoon of ice water or lemon juice until the hummus becomes smooth and creamy.
