Homemade classic hummus served with pita bread and fresh vegetables.

Easy Classic Hummus Recipe: Absolutely Amazing

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Introduction

Hummus is a timeless, creamy dip that has won hearts around the world. Whether you’ve had it as a snack, appetizer, or spread, this easy classic hummus recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. It’s made with just a few simple ingredients—chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon, and olive oil—yet offers incredible flavor and texture. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it on a quiet afternoon, this hummus is perfect for every occasion.

Hummus has been a beloved dish for centuries, originating in the Middle East, where it’s enjoyed as a staple in many households. Its rich, creamy texture combined with the earthy flavors of chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon makes it a perfect accompaniment to almost any meal. Best of all, this amazing hummus recipe is versatile, and once you master it, you’ll be able to tweak it to fit your personal taste.

Recipe Card

Recipe Name:
Classic Hummus

Description:
This easy hummus recipe blends together chickpeas, tahini, lemon, and garlic for a smooth and creamy dip that will leave you coming back for more. Perfect for serving at any gathering or as a quick snack!

Prep Time:
10 minutes

Cook Time:
None (if using canned chickpeas)

Total Time:
10 minutes

Servings:
6-8 servings

Calories:
Approximately 160 calories per serving (2 tablespoons)

Ingredients List:

  • 1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 3 tablespoons of tahini (sesame paste)
  • 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin
  • Salt to taste (about 1/2 teaspoon)
  • Water (as needed, about 3-4 tablespoons)
  • Paprika and extra olive oil for garnish
Fresh ingredients for this easy classic hummus recipe: chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon, olive oil, and cumin.

Instructions:

  1. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and salt.
  2. Process until smooth, scraping down the sides as necessary.
  3. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil, followed by water, until the hummus reaches your desired consistency.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, lemon, or cumin.
  5. Transfer to a bowl, drizzle with extra olive oil, and sprinkle with paprika.
  6. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes for a firmer texture.

Notes:

  • If you want extra smooth hummus, peel the skins off the chickpeas before blending.
  • This recipe is easily doubled for larger gatherings.

Nutrition Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 160
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbs: 14g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 5g

Why You’ll Love This Easy Classic Hummus Recipe

There’s no denying it—this easy hummus recipe is truly amazing. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:

  1. Quick and Simple:
    With just a few ingredients and under 10 minutes of prep, you can make your own hummus from scratch!
  2. Budget-Friendly:
    Instead of buying pricey store-bought hummus, this recipe lets you create a fresh batch for just a fraction of the cost.
  3. Customizable:
    Feel free to adjust the flavor to your liking, whether you prefer it garlicky, extra lemony, or with a little extra cumin.
  4. Healthy and Nourishing:
    Packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats, this hummus recipe makes for a wholesome snack or appetizer.
  5. Versatile:
    Pair it with pita, veggies, or even as a spread on sandwiches and wraps. It’s perfect for any occasion!

Easy Classic Hummus Recipe Ingredients and Substitutions

Hummus relies on a handful of simple ingredients, but there are a few key components that make it shine. Let’s break them down:

  • Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans):
    The foundation of hummus. If you don’t have canned chickpeas, you can also use dried chickpeas, though they’ll need to be soaked and cooked first.
  • Tahini:
    Tahini is a paste made from sesame seeds, and it adds a distinct, creamy richness to the hummus. If you don’t have tahini, you can substitute with peanut butter, though it will alter the flavor.
  • Olive Oil:
    Olive oil adds smoothness to the hummus. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for the best flavor, but any neutral oil will work in a pinch.
  • Lemon Juice:
    Fresh lemon juice adds a zesty, bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the tahini and chickpeas.
  • Garlic:
    A classic hummus ingredient. You can use roasted garlic for a sweeter, milder taste or fresh garlic for a bolder, sharper flavor.

Substitution Tips:

  • For a creamy texture: Add a little more olive oil or a splash of water if you prefer a smoother consistency.
  • For a twist on flavor: Add roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh herbs like parsley to customize your hummus.

How to Make Easy Classic Hummus Recipe (Step-by-Step)

Making hummus from scratch may sound daunting, but it’s actually incredibly easy. Here’s how you can do it in just a few simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas

Start by draining and rinsing your chickpeas (unless you’re using dried chickpeas that have already been cooked). Removing the skins from the chickpeas can give you a smoother hummus, though it’s optional. You can easily pop the skins off by gently squeezing each chickpea between your fingers.

Step 2: Blend the Ingredients

Add the chickpeas to a food processor, followed by tahini, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and salt. Pulse a few times to begin breaking down the chickpeas. Then, process the mixture until smooth.

Step 3: Add Olive Oil and Water

With the food processor running, slowly add the olive oil. Next, add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the hummus reaches a creamy consistency. The amount of water you’ll need depends on how thick or smooth you like your hummus.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

Taste your hummus and adjust the seasoning as needed. More salt, lemon juice, or garlic can be added to suit your taste preferences. If you want extra creaminess, you can blend in a bit more olive oil or water.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the hummus is perfectly blended, transfer it to a serving bowl. Drizzle with extra olive oil, sprinkle with paprika, and garnish with parsley if desired. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for later use.

Expert Tips for Success

Here are a few tips from the pros to ensure your hummus turns out perfectly every time:

  1. Use a high-quality food processor: A powerful food processor helps achieve that ultra-smooth consistency. If you don’t have one, a blender will work too, but you may need to blend in batches.
  2. Add ice-cold water: For a fluffier texture, add a little bit of ice-cold water as you blend.
  3. Avoid over-processing: While you want to blend the hummus until smooth, over-processing can cause it to become too runny. Be mindful of the texture.
  4. Chill for a firmer texture: If you have the time, chill the hummus for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and for a firmer dip.
  5. Serve with fresh ingredients: Hummus is best served with fresh pita, veggies, or even roasted chicken for a more substantial meal.

Variations and Customizations for Easy Classic Hummus Recipe

Once you’ve mastered this classic hummus recipe, try these variations to mix things up:

  1. Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Add a roasted red pepper (or two) to the mixture for a sweet, smoky flavor.
  2. Spicy Hummus: Blend in some chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or even a bit of sriracha for a kick.
  3. Herb Hummus: Add fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or parsley to change the flavor profile.
  4. Sun-Dried Tomato Hummus: Incorporate some sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy, savory twist.
  5. Curry Hummus: Add a teaspoon of curry powder for a warm, aromatic flavor.

Storage and Reheating Instructions Easy Classic Hummus Recipe

Storage:
Store leftover hummus in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The flavor improves the longer it sits, making it perfect for meal prep!

Reheating:
Hummus is best served chilled, but if you prefer to serve it warm, gently heat it on the stovetop or in the microwave for a few seconds. Be sure to stir in a bit of olive oil or water if it thickens.

Serving Suggestions

Hummus is so versatile and pairs well with so many dishes. Here are some ideas for how to serve it:

  1. With pita chips or fresh pita bread
  2. As a dip for fresh veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers
  3. Spread on sandwiches or wraps
  4. With falafel or grilled chicken for a Mediterranean-inspired meal
  5. As an accompaniment to a cheese and charcuterie board

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Easy Classic Hummus Recipe

Q: How can I make hummus creamier?
A: To make your hummus extra creamy, blend it for longer and add more olive oil or water to reach your desired texture.

Q: Can I freeze hummus?
A: Yes, you can freeze hummus for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container and give it a good stir after thawing.

Q: What if my hummus is too thick?
A: Simply add a bit more water, one tablespoon at a time, to thin it out to your preferred consistency.

Related Recipes

If you loved this hummus recipe, here are a few more dishes you might enjoy:

  • Classic Baba Ganoush
  • Easy Guacamole
  • Roasted Red Pepper Dip
  • Crispy Falafel

Conclusion

Now that you know how to make hummus from scratch, there’s no need to rely on store-bought versions again. This easy, classic hummus recipe is full of flavor, healthy, and incredibly versatile. Whether you enjoy it as a quick snack, a party appetizer, or a spread for sandwiches, this hummus will always hit the spot. Give it a try today and experience the joy of homemade hummus!

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