14 Creative Hummus Recipes and How to Make the Best Classic Dip
Customize each creamy chickpea spread for a nutritious boost at any bite or gathering.
Hummus has earned its place as a staple on snack tables everywhere. Whether you’re a fan of the traditional chickpea spread or love experimenting with new flavors, homemade hummus is easy to prepare, customizable, and packed with nutrition. Skip the store-bought tubs—making your own means total control over ingredients and endless opportunities for creativity. Here, you’ll find a foolproof classic hummus recipe, plus 13 delicious ways to jazz up your dip for satisfying snacks or impressive party platters.
Why Make Hummus at Home?
Store-bought hummus is convenient, but homemade versions offer unbeatable taste and texture. Making hummus yourself allows you to:
- Control ingredients, including sodium and preservatives
- Customize the flavor with unique additions or bold spices
- Achieve perfect creaminess
- Save money over time
- Ensure freshness
Classic Hummus Recipe
The foundation of any creative hummus variation is a reliably smooth, creamy classic recipe. Here’s how to make it in just minutes:
| Prep Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|
| 5 minutes | 10 minutes | 8 |
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup tahini (sesame seed paste)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt to taste
- 2-4 tablespoons water, as needed for texture
Instructions:
- Combine chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and a pinch of salt in a food processor.
- Process until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- If the mixture is too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time until your desired consistency is reached.
- Taste and adjust salt, lemon juice, or garlic if desired.
- Scoop into a bowl, drizzle with a bit more olive oil and garnish with paprika or fresh herbs. Serve with pita, crackers, or veggies.
Tip: Peel chickpeas for an extra-silky finish or blend for several more minutes for supreme creaminess.
13 Creative Hummus Variations
One of the best things about hummus is its versatility. Once you’ve mastered the classic, try one of these creative twists—each recipe starts with the base above, plus one or more flavorful additions.
1. Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
- Add 1/2 cup roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade) to the food processor along with the other ingredients.
- Blend until smooth for a subtly sweet, smoky dip.
2. Beet Hummus
- Add 1/2 cup cooked beets (roasted or boiled) to the base recipe.
- Pulses until brilliantly pink, earthy, and slightly sweet.
3. Avocado Hummus
- Add 1 ripe avocado to the classic hummus ingredients before processing.
- Optional: Squeeze in extra lemon juice and garnish with fresh cilantro.
4. Spicy Sriracha Hummus
- Add 1–2 teaspoons sriracha sauce (or to taste) before blending.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and a drizzle of chile oil for a kick.
5. Cilantro-Lime Hummus
What others are reading
- Add 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves and substitute lime juice for lemon.
- Makes a zesty, herbaceous dip perfect for tacos or tortilla chips.
6. Smoky Paprika Hummus
- Blend 1 teaspoon smoked paprika into the hummus base.
- Top with extra paprika and a few chopped olives for a Mediterranean flair.
7. Sun-Dried Tomato Hummus
- Add 1/4 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes (drained) to the base recipe.
- Pulse until well-blended for a tangy, umami-rich spread.
8. Garlic Lovers’ Hummus
- Double or triple the garlic cloves for an intensely garlicky spread.
- For an even deeper flavor, roast the garlic beforehand.
9. Caramelized Onion Hummus
- Prepare 1/2–3/4 cup caramelized onions and blend into the base.
- Add a pinch of thyme for warm, savory depth.
10. Curried Hummus
- Add 1½ teaspoons curry powder and a pinch of cayenne to the other ingredients.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro or mango chutney for a bold fusion.
11. Red Lentil Hummus
- Use 1 cup cooked red lentils in place of (or along with) chickpeas.
- Add grated lemon zest, ground coriander, and a little extra cumin for a unique, hearty dip.
This version is especially high in protein and fiber, with a mellow taste and creamy texture. Just simmer lentils until very soft, drain, and use as you would chickpeas.
12. Sweet Potato Hummus
- Add 1/2 cup cooked, mashed sweet potato to the base.
- Pairs perfectly with pita chips or vegetable sticks.
13. Black Bean Hummus
- Substitute black beans for chickpeas and add 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin.
- Add a splash of lime juice for a zesty, Southwestern twist.
Expert Tips for the Creamiest Hummus
- For ultra-smooth texture: Cook canned chickpeas for 10 minutes in water with baking soda, then rinse well and proceed with the recipe.
- Peel chickpeas easily: Rub them gently between your hands under running water—the skins slip off for an extra-creamy blend.
- Use ice water: Add ice-cold water while blending for a lighter, fluffier consistency.
- Taste as you go: Lemon, garlic, salt, and tahini preferences vary. Start small, then adjust for your perfect fit.
- Refrigerate to thicken: Hummus will firm up as it chills. If it’s too loose, give it an hour in the fridge or add extra tahini.
Serving Suggestions and Healthy Pairings
Hummus is endlessly versatile as a dip, spread, or side. Try these serving ideas:
- Spread it on toast, flatbread, or wraps instead of mayo or butter
- Dip fresh veggies like carrots, cucumbers, peppers, or cherry tomatoes
- Serve with grilled meats, falafel, or roasted potatoes
- Topping for grain bowls or salads
- Layer in pita sandwiches with greens, grilled vegetables, or chicken
Nutrition Benefits of Hummus
- Protein-packed: Helps keep you full and satisfied
- Fiber-rich: Supports digestive health and steady energy
- Healthy fats: From tahini and olive oil
- Minerals: A good source of iron, calcium, and magnesium
- No artificial additives or preservatives when made from scratch
A quarter-cup serving of classic homemade hummus contains about 70–100 calories, 2–3 grams protein, 3–5 grams fat, and 3–4 grams fiber, depending on the recipe. Variations using lentils or black beans can offer even more protein and fiber.
Creative Ways to Use Leftover Hummus
- Add to deviled eggs in place of mayo for a tangy twist
- Stir into soups for creaminess and nutrition
- Thin with water or lemon juice to make salad dressing
- Layer in savory breakfast bowls or omelets
Featured Recipe: Grilled Vegetable and Hummus Pitas
- Use a whole wheat pita stuffed with homemade hummus, grilled zucchini, red onion, and sliced tomato.
- Drizzle with extra olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper for a satisfying, plant-based lunch.
This pita recipe delivers balanced nutrition—healthy carbs, plant protein, good fats, and loads of veggie fiber—all in a portable package. Per serving: 332 calories, 12g protein, 56g carbs (9g fiber), 8.5g fat, 4.5g sugar, 658mg sodium.
FAQs About Making and Enjoying Hummus
Q: Is hummus gluten-free and vegan?
A: Yes, traditional hummus is naturally gluten-free and vegan when made with basic ingredients like chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices.
Q: How long does homemade hummus last?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Stir before serving and discard if it develops an off odor or flavor.
Q: Can I freeze hummus?
A: Yes, hummus can be frozen. Thaw overnight in the fridge and stir before serving. The texture may change slightly, but a little extra olive oil can restore its creaminess.
Q: Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
A: Yes, soak 1/2 cup dried chickpeas overnight, drain, then cook until very tender before using in your recipe. This often results in even tastier and creamier hummus.
Q: What can I use instead of tahini?
A: Sunflower seed butter, cashew butter, or plain Greek yogurt can substitute for tahini, though flavor and texture will change.
Conclusion
Whether you stick to the ultra-creamy classic hummus or experiment with colorful, nutrient-packed variations, making your own hummus puts endless flavors at your fingertips. Remember, the key to great hummus is tasting and adjusting for your personal preference. Dip, spread, or scoop your way through these recipes and enjoy a healthy, delicious treat any time!
References
- https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/recipes/a20523390/grilled-vegetable-and-hummus-pitas/
- https://healthiersteps.com/how-to-make-the-best-homemade-hummus/
- https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/a20504373/hummus-recipes-1/
- https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/recipes/a38006861/red-lentil-hummus-recipe/
- https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/a20464977/healthy-hummus-recipes/
- https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/recipes/a20520458/eves-hummus/
- https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/a62542594/carrot-sriracha-hummus-recipe/
- https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/recipes/a20524575/homemade-hummus/
- https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/recipes/a20506753/hummus-ii/
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