Hummus… this versatile dip essential to middle-eastern cuisine is moving mainstream. Rich, creamy and protein-packed, it’s a great way to add a healthy and flavorful kick to your next party or get-together.
Store-bought hummus is delicious but is often made with far more fat than needed, so I always make my own — it’s less expensive, too!
This is my basic recipe using everyday ingredients from my pantry that you probably have in yours, too. Everything is measured to taste, so feel free to adjust and make it your own!
Easy Hummus Dip Recipe – Makes about 2 Cups
- 1 (16oz) Can Garbanzo Beans (aka Chickpeas) drained, save the liquid
- 1-2 tsp Ground Cumin (to taste – add more for a richer, earthier flavor)
- 1/4 to 1/2 tsp Garlic Salt (again, to taste)
- 1 tsp Chopped Jalapenos (or 3-4 slices pickled or fresh — I like pickled)
- 1 Tbs Lemon Juice
- 1 Tbs Extra Virgin Olive Oil (**optional – see below)
- Dash Paprika
Combine all ingredients in a food processor and blend to a smooth paste. Add olive oil and then reserved liquid from the garbanzo beans, a tablespoon at a time, and blend until desired creamy/smooth consistency. **To make it fat-free, omit the olive oil and use more liquid from the garbanzo beans.
Garnish hummus with chopped cilantro, a dot of pesto, or roasted red pepper paste for a pretty presentation.
Serve hummus dip with Pita chips, artisan crackers, bread rounds, or pita bread quarters. Check out our Entertaining Essentials for our favorite ways to serve it all up in style.
Also, try the hummus as a spread on sandwiches — it’s especially good with roasted veggies on ciabatta bread and with Veggie Burgers on wheat buns!
Another great reason to make your own Hummus Dip…
Premade hummus often contains pine nuts, a common food allergen. Making your own hummus is a worry-free solution for any party guests wondering about ingredients.