Mediterranean Hummus is a creamy, flavorful dip that captures the essence of the Mediterranean with every spoonful. Made from blended chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and a splash of lemon juice, this versatile dip is perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a healthy snack. Its smooth texture and rich flavors will leave your taste buds dancing while adding a nutritious boost to your meals. Whether slathered on pita bread, served with crunchy vegetables, or drizzled with olive oil, Mediterranean Hummus is a delightful addition to any table.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Mediterranean Hummus recipe is a fan favorite for many reasons. First, the flavors are simply irresistible — the nuttiness of tahini paired with the brightness of lemon and the earthiness of chickpeas creates a complex flavor profile that’s hard to beat. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal cooking skills and just a few simple ingredients. Perfect for those who lead busy lives, this hummus fits seamlessly into a variety of diets, including vegan, gluten-free, and Mediterranean diets. With its high protein content and healthy fats, it’s a guilt-free indulgence you can feel good about.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Dried Chickpeas: For a creamier hummus, soak dried chickpeas overnight and cook them until tender instead of using canned chickpeas. This will enhance the flavor and texture.
- Blend Well: Ensure you blend the hummus long enough to achieve a smooth consistency. If it’s too thick, add a little more water or olive oil as needed.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste and adjust the seasoning! You may want to add more lemon juice, garlic, or salt depending on your personal preference.
- Chill Before Serving: Allow the hummus to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Make Ahead Tips
Mediterranean Hummus is ideal for meal prep! You can prepare it up to three days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you want to save time, you can also pre-chop garlic and measure out your spices ahead of time. For a fresher taste, consider squeezing fresh lemon juice right before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Hummus: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few slices of fresh jalapeño to give your hummus a kick.
- Herbed Hummus: Blend in fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or cilantro for a refreshing twist.
- Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Incorporate roasted red peppers for a sweet and smoky flavor.
- Avocado Hummus: Mix in ripe avocado for a creamy texture and a unique taste.
How to Serve
Serve Mediterranean Hummus in a shallow bowl, creating a small well in the center to drizzle with high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika, fresh parsley, or toasted pine nuts for added flavor and visual appeal. Accompany with warm pita bread, crisp vegetable sticks (like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers), or crunchy pita chips for a delightful dipping experience.
Pairing Suggestions
For a refreshing drink pairing, try a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Mediterranean cocktail such as a gin and tonic with a twist of lemon. Complement your hummus with a side of tabbouleh salad or a Mediterranean platter featuring olives, feta cheese, and roasted vegetables. For dessert, consider serving fresh fruit or a light yogurt parfait.
How to Store
Store any leftover Mediterranean Hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To freeze, transfer the hummus to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion, and it can be stored for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving.
Equipment Needed
You will need a food processor for this recipe, which makes blending the ingredients quick and efficient. If you don’t have a food processor, a high-speed blender can work as well, though you may need to add a bit more liquid to help with blending.
Dietary Adaptations
This Mediterranean Hummus recipe is naturally vegan and dairy-free. For those with nut allergies, ensure you use tahini made from sesame seeds, as it does not contain nuts. To make it allergen-friendly, simply stick to the basic ingredients and avoid any additional toppings that may contain allergens.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the spring and summer, enhance your hummus with fresh herbs like mint or basil, or add in seasonal vegetables like sun-dried tomatoes or grilled zucchini. In the fall, consider incorporating roasted garlic for a deeper flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use canned chickpeas? Yes, canned chickpeas work perfectly fine and save time. Just make sure to drain and rinse them well.
- What can I substitute for tahini? You can use sunflower seed butter or even Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture, though it will change the flavor slightly.
- How long can I store hummus? Homemade hummus can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days or frozen for up to three months.
- Why is my hummus gritty? This can happen if the chickpeas are not blended long enough or if they were not cooked properly. Ensure they are cooked until tender and blend until smooth.
How To Make Mediterranean Hummus
Mediterranean Hummus
Mediterranean Hummus is a creamy, flavorful dip that captures the essence of the Mediterranean with every spoonful.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/3 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1-2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed for consistency
- Optional: Paprika and fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Start by placing the drained chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and ground cumin into the food processor.
- Blend on high until the mixture is smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. Continue blending until creamy.
- Taste and season with salt. Adjust lemon juice or garlic according to your preference.
- Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with paprika and fresh herbs if desired.
- Serve with pita bread, vegetable sticks, or your favorite dippers.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 185Total Fat 17gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 14gCholesterol 0mgSodium 158mgCarbohydrates 6gFiber 1gSugar 0gProtein 4g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Creating homemade Mediterranean Hummus is not just a culinary endeavor; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that brings a piece of the Mediterranean to your kitchen. This dip is easy to make, healthful, and endlessly versatile, making it a perfect addition to any gathering or a simple snack. Whether you enjoy it straight from the bowl or as part of a larger meal, once you make this recipe, it’s sure to become a staple in your home. Happy dipping!
