Simple Homemade Hummus Recipe
Hola, friends! Some recipes just feel like sunshine in a bowl, and this Homemade Hummus is one of them. Growing up in Orlando, I was surrounded by vibrant flavors from every corner of the world.
My mama would always say that food is a bridge to other cultures, and when I first learned how to make hummus from scratch, I knew exactly what she meant. Smooth, creamy, and full of Mediterranean warmth, this easy hummus recipe is all about blending simplicity with flavor.
Whether you’re dipping, spreading, or snacking, this bowl of homemade goodness brings joy and freshness to every table.
Quick Recipe Overview
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 10 minutes |
| Servings | 6–8 |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Cuisine | Mediterranean |
| Method | Food Processor |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultra Creamy Texture: Achieve restaurant-level smoothness in minutes.
- Customizable Flavor: Adjust lemon, garlic, or tahini to suit your taste.
- Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with plant-based protein and heart-healthy fats.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in 10 minutes with basic pantry ingredients.
- Perfect for Any Meal: Great as a dip, sandwich spread, or salad topper.
Homemade Hummus (Creamy, Smooth & Fresh)
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Homemade Hummus is creamy, smooth, and full of bright Mediterranean flavor. Made with chickpeas, tahini, lemon, and garlic, it’s a quick and healthy dip ready in just 10 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup good-quality tahini
- 2–4 tablespoons cold water (or more if needed)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
- Juice of 1 lemon (2–3 tablespoons)
- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- Optional toppings: olive oil drizzle, chopped parsley, paprika or sumac, toasted pine nuts
Instructions
1. Add tahini, cold water, olive oil, cumin, salt, garlic, and lemon juice to a food processor.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add chickpeas and blend for 3–4 minutes, pausing to scrape sides, until silky.
4. If too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons cold water and blend again.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning with more lemon juice, salt, or cumin.
6. Serve immediately topped with olive oil, parsley, paprika, or pine nuts. Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days.
Notes
For extra creamy hummus, peel the chickpeas or simmer them for 20 minutes before blending. Add ice-cold water while processing for the smoothest texture. Use high-quality tahini for a rich, nutty flavor. Serve slightly chilled with pita or vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Food Processor
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 220
- Fat: 13
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 5
- Cholesterol: 0
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup good-quality tahini
- 2–4 tablespoons cold water (add more for desired texture)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 2 medium garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
- Juice of 1 lemon (2–3 tablespoons)
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
Optional Toppings:
- Drizzle of olive oil
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Sprinkle of paprika or ground sumac
- Toasted pine nuts
Ingredient Tips
| Ingredient | Tip Example |
| Tahini | Use high-quality tahini for the smoothest, nutty flavor. |
| Chickpeas | Overcooking or simmering for 20 minutes makes creamier hummus. |
| Garlic | Smash before blending for even distribution and mellow flavor. |
| Lemon Juice | Use fresh lemon juice for brightness and balance. |
| Olive Oil | Extra virgin adds a fruity, rich finish. |
| Cumin | Enhances the earthy, savory base flavor. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Add tahini, cold water, olive oil, cumin, salt, garlic, and lemon juice to your food processor.
- Blend Until Smooth: Process for about 1–2 minutes until creamy and pale.
- Add Chickpeas: Add rinsed and drained chickpeas to the processor.
- Blend Completely: Process for 3–4 minutes, scraping down the sides halfway through, until silky smooth.
- Adjust Texture: If the hummus is too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of cold water and blend again.
- Taste and Season: Add more salt, lemon juice, or cumin to balance the flavors.
- Serve and Garnish: Spoon into a bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and top with parsley, paprika, or toasted pine nuts.
Helpful Tips
- Add ice-cold water while blending for extra creaminess.
- Peel chickpeas for the smoothest hummus, though it’s optional.
- Don’t skip tahini – it gives hummus its signature richness.
- Serve slightly chilled for the best flavor.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Blend Longer Than You Think: At least 3–4 minutes ensures ultra-smooth texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and garlic make all the difference.
- Control Consistency: More water makes it lighter, less makes it thicker and richer.
- Rest Before Serving: Let hummus sit for 30 minutes to let the flavors blend perfectly.
Recipe Variations
- Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Blend in one roasted bell pepper for a smoky twist.
- Spicy Hummus: Add cayenne or harissa for heat.
- Garlic Lovers Hummus: Double the garlic for bold flavor.
- Herbed Hummus: Add cilantro or basil for a vibrant, fresh taste.
Make Ahead & Freezer Tips
You can make hummus up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. If freezing, use a freezer-safe container and drizzle olive oil on top to preserve moisture. Thaw overnight and stir before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hummus as a dip with warm pita, fresh vegetables, or crispy chips. It also makes a delicious spread for wraps, sandwiches, or breakfast toast.
Pairing Ideas
Pair hummus with grilled meats, falafel, or roasted vegetables. It’s also perfect alongside tabbouleh, couscous salad, or a bright cucumber-tomato salad.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store hummus in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If it thickens, stir in a tablespoon of cold water or olive oil before serving. Avoid heating hummus, as it’s best enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I make my hummus extra smooth?
Blend longer and use ice-cold water. You can also peel chickpeas for a silkier texture.
2. Can I make hummus without tahini?
Yes, substitute with almond butter or sunflower seed butter, but the flavor will change slightly.
3. What type of chickpeas are best?
Canned chickpeas work great, but simmering them for 20 minutes softens them further for creamier results.
4. How can I make my hummus more flavorful?
Add roasted garlic, roasted peppers, or a drizzle of chili oil for depth and spice.
5. Can I freeze hummus?
Yes, freeze for up to 2 months in an airtight container. Thaw overnight and stir before serving.
6. Why is my hummus grainy?
It wasn’t blended long enough, or the chickpeas weren’t soft. Blend again with a bit more water.
7. What can I serve with hummus besides pita?
Try raw vegetables, pretzels, crackers, or use it as a sandwich spread.
Nutrition Info
| Serving Size | ¼ cup |
| Calories | 190 |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fat | 13 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 10 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 220 mg |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated and may vary based on specific ingredients.
Author’s Note
This creamy hummus recipe always reminds me that simplicity is the heart of great cooking. I love how a few humble ingredients – chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon – can come together to create something extraordinary. It’s the kind of recipe that connects traditions across cultures, much like the food I grew up with.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Hummus recipe is pure magic: smooth, rich, and bursting with freshness. It’s perfect for any occasion, from quick snacks to elegant appetizers. Once you make it from scratch, you’ll never go back to store-bought again.
If you love creamy, Mediterranean-inspired recipes like this, you’ll also enjoy my Creamy Vegan Lemon Orzo Soup – it’s another vibrant and comforting dish that celebrates simple, wholesome ingredients.
