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Home » Appetizers » Classic Hummus Recipe

Classic Hummus Recipe

Created: May 12, 2021 Updated: June 23, 2022 by lyuba 24 Comments

4.7K shares
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Classic Hummus is one of the most popular protein-packed cold appetizer dips. This chickpea dip is so easy, all you have to do it blend the ingredients until they’re smooth, and you have a crowd-pleasing homemade dip! Made with traditional ingredients like tahini and chickpeas, this hummus recipe is simple, yet irresistible.

A piece of naan is being dipped into hummus.

Hummus

Fad foods come and go, and just a few years ago, hummus was all the rage! While most fad foods have their moment then take a backseat for other hot new items to take the wheel, hummus hasn’t lost any popularity over time. If anything, it seems as if hummus is more popular than ever before, and for good reason. It’s a classic, delicious dip that’s always a treat.

I don’t think hummus is going anywhere any time soon. It’s proven to have a longstanding impact on parties and potlucks all over the world! And as easy as it is to buy a container of hummus and serve it for your guests, you’re really robbing yourself of the delights of homemade hummus. This recipe is incredibly easy and always tastier than store-bought hummus.

This simple hummus recipe always makes the creamiest, freshest hummus that has a light nutty taste and a mouthwatering hint of tangy lemon juice. There are plenty of variations on classic hummus that are also delicious, like my Roasted Garlic and Dill Hummus, but I always find myself going back to this classic recipe when preparing for guests. It’s a simple dip that I know everyone will love!

Hummus is in a white bowl and garnished with paprika and olive oil.

Where did hummus originate?

Hummus is a traditional Middle Eastern spread/dip with a long history. However, interestingly enough, the first origins of hummus can be traced all the way back to 13th century Egypt. That’s why hummus will never just be a fad – it’s lasted centuries in countries all over the world!

What are the health benefits of hummus?

The key ingredient of hummus is chickpeas, of course, and chickpeas have a ton of amazing health benefits.

Chickpeas are high in protein, fiber, vitamin B, and potassium and still only a moderate amount of calories. Because of the amount of protein and fiber, this dip will help fill you up faster and keep you full longer. Come to think of it, this may be the only dip at parties that you actually benefit from by eating it!

Ingredients in This Hummus Recipe

This is a no-frills recipe that only uses the essential ingredients for classic, easy, and delicious homemade hummus.

The ingredients for hummus are placed on a wooden cutting board.
  • Chickpeas – Just one can of chickpeas is all you need for this simple recipe. No matter which brand of chickpeas you buy, be sure to strain them before using but save some of the liquid.
  • Chickpea Juices – When straining the chickpeas, reserve approximately 1/2 cup of the liquid. It’s much better to use it than adding water..
  • Lemon Juice – This recipe calls for 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, so you’ll need at least 2 lemons to squeeze. Avoid using the store-bough lemon juices, as they typically have a noticeably artificial taste.
  • Tahini – This classic Middle Eastern sesame paste provides a deep earthy flavor to the recipe that really helps to elevate and enhance the natural, authentic flavors of the hummus.
  • Garlic Cloves – In this hummus recipe, the garlic should just be a light hint that compliments the other flavors. Avoid adding too much fresh garlic and if you like more garlic flavor, add some roasted garlic instead.
  • Olive Oil – Use good quality olive oil but taste it first to make sure it’s not too bitter.
  • Ground Cumin – This is yet another earthy ingredient that adds to the overall warmness of the hummus that we’re aiming for.
  • Salt – Just a little of salt is needed to help enhance the other ingredients in this hummus and make it truly mouthwatering. However, if you want to keep this hummus low-sodium, omit the salt entirely.
  • Paprika – No classic hummus would ever be complete without a dash of vibrant red paprika across the top! Paprika provides a delicately sweet flavor that balances well with the warmer, earthier ingredients.

What is tahini and how to use it?

Tahini is a paste made out of roasted sesame seeds. It taste quite mind but you definitely will taste its presence. It’s a Middle Eastern ingredient that’s used in many popular dishes!

If you have tahini left over, put it to good use. You can use tahini on top of many Middle Eastern recipes like gyros, falafel, baba ghanoush. You can also mix it into sesame salad dressing and so many different sauces. If you haven’t tried chocolate brownies with tahini swirled into the top, you’re definitely missing out!

How to Make Hummus

The ingredients for hummus are unblended in a food processor.

Start by straining the liquid from the can of chickpeas, and remember to reserve 1/2 of the liquid.

Toss all of the ingredients for hummus, except for the paprika, into a food processor or blender.

Hummus has been thoroughly blended.

Blend the ingredient until you have a completely smooth finished product. You do not want ANY lumps in the hummus!

Once thoroughly blended, transfer the homemade hummus into your favorite serving bowl. Top it off with a drizzle of olive oil, paprika, and even some fresh herbs. Enjoy!

A piece of naan is being dipped into hummus.

More Easy Dip Recipes:

French Onion Dip – a classic party appetizer that is creamy, cheesy, and slightly sweet from the abundance of caramelized onions.

Smoked Salmon Dip – a creamy dip that has a prominent smoked salmon flavor with compliments of lemon, fresh dill weed, capers, and chives.

Queso Blanco Dip with Chorizo – zesty and smooth Queso Blanco made with sauteed chorizo sausage, peppers, and onions.

Cajun Shrimp Dip – loads of shrimp, bacon, cheese, veggies, and Cajun spices all combined into a spicy hot dip.

A white bowl filled with hummus is ready to be eaten.

PIN THIS RECIPE FOR LATER

A white bowl filled with hummus is ready to be eaten.

Classic Hummus

Hummus is a delicious and healthy dip made with chickpeas, tahini paste, olive oil, and flavored with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and simple seasoning.
5 from 2 votes
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Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Keyword: hummus
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 212kcal
Author: lyuba

Ingredients

  • 16 oz can of chickpeas
  • 1/2 cup cup chickpea juices from the can
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice 1.5-2 lemons
  • 1/3 cup tahini
  • 2-3 garlic cloves
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2-1 tsp salt
  • dash paprika for topping
US Customary – Metric

Instructions

  • Strain the liquid off from the can of chickpeas but leave 1/4 of the cup liquid for the hummus.
  • Combine all the ingredients, except the paprika, in the blender or food processor and blend until completely smooth.
  • Transfer hummus into a bowl and top it off with a drizzle of some olive oil and dash of paprika

Nutrition

Calories: 212kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 410mg | Potassium: 189mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 26IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 52mg | Iron: 2mg
Tried this recipe?Mention @willcookforsmiles and tag #willcookforsmiles
title collage with two images of scooping hummus with flatbread and hummus in a bowl

LYUBA

ABOUT LYUBA

I’m Lyuba Brooke, mother of 2, the cook, recipe developer, photographer, and author behind willcookforsmiles.com. I share many classic and original recipes, cooking tips, and tutorials. My passion is sharing delicious meals for everyone to try. Read more...

4.7K shares

Filed Under: Appetizers, Dips, Gluten Free, Middle Eastern, Vegetarian

All images and text ©Lyubov Brooke for ©Will Cook For Smiles. Please do not use my images without prior permission. If using my posts in collections and features, please link back to this post for the recipe. Disclaimer: Nutrition information shown is not guaranteed to be 100% accurate as most ingredients and brands have variations.

Comments

  1. Sarah King says

    June 1, 2012 at 1:39 am

    I made this for a baby shower once and it was a huge hit.  Too bad I didn’t actually try any of it.  It might be time to attempt this recipe again.  Thanks for sharing.  Visiting from Craftionary’s Fun Friday and 
    http://sarahdawndesigns.blogspot.com/

    Reply
  2. Carla Brooke says

    June 1, 2012 at 2:00 am

    Yummy!

    Reply
  3. Treatntrick says

    June 1, 2012 at 4:39 pm

    Great presentation and so healthy! Thanks so much for your sweet comment. Have a great weekend!

    Reply
  4. Lauren Brown says

    June 1, 2012 at 5:21 pm

    I absolutely LOVE hummus (actually just ate some) and I’m definitely going to have to make some! Yummy. 

    Reply
  5. Susan says

    June 1, 2012 at 9:25 pm

    Thanks for sharing. I might make it on Monday for my teacher sorority dinner.

    Reply
  6. Diana Meredith says

    June 1, 2012 at 11:52 pm

    Mmm!  Hummus is so yummy!

    Reply
  7. Melissa Miller says

    June 1, 2012 at 11:56 pm

    I’ve always wanted to try making hummus!  Your recipe is exactly what I was looking for! 

    Reply
  8. WillCookForSmiles says

    June 2, 2012 at 4:47 pm

    Always glad to help!

    Reply
  9. winnie rottem says

    June 4, 2012 at 6:38 am

    Yep – Humus is very popular in my country
    Yours looks wonderful!
    The best way to eat it is with Pita-bread 🙂

    Reply
  10. Healthymommyhealthybaby says

    June 4, 2012 at 3:40 pm

    That looks awesome!!!! I have been meaning to try to make my own hummus. Yours looks delish! I’d love it if you’d share this at my Meatless Monday linky! http://jessica-healthymommyhealthybaby.blogspot.com/2012/06/meatless-monday-vinegret-beet-salad.html

    Reply
  11. Julia {The Roasted Root} says

    June 4, 2012 at 4:16 pm

    Classy, delicious and nutritious snack! Yum!

    Reply
  12. WillCookForSmiles says

    June 4, 2012 at 5:17 pm

     Oh yes, its the best with fresh pita! I also like it with a cucumber, it was a first time I tried it and it was great!

    Reply
  13. Susie HomeMaker says

    June 5, 2012 at 3:29 am

    Yes, that is simple! Wow, I love eating it on tortilla wraps and as a dip etc. I have to try this. Thanks!
    Blessings,
    Susie

    Reply
  14. Stringtownhome says

    June 5, 2012 at 8:39 pm

    This looks delicious!!! Would love for you to share with my readers at my linky party!  -stringtownhome.blogspot.com.

    Hugs-
    Heather

    Reply
  15. Qiu Wan says

    June 6, 2012 at 7:05 pm

    I love homemade hummus.  So easy and so so delicious.

    Love for you to share this project at MADE by ME Wednesday’s Linky Party @ JAQS Studio:
    http://www.jaqsstudio.com/2012/06/made-by-me-34-linky-party-and-features.html

    Reply
  16. Mychocolatepeaces says

    June 7, 2012 at 2:55 am

    I like the idea of using the liquid from the garbanzo beans. Typically the recipes ask for olive oil and I am sure this would cut down on the calories. I also like to add red peppe flakes for a little extra kick. Coming to you from the Creative Spark. Gina @ mychocolatepeaces.com

    Reply
  17. WillCookForSmiles says

    June 7, 2012 at 11:54 am

     Mmm, red pepper flakes is a good idea! Thanks!

    Reply
  18. J Clark says

    June 12, 2012 at 4:35 pm

    I pinned this the other day, and then decided to make it – yummy! Even though I had to improvise a little with my ingredients, the hummus was awesome! Thanks so much for sharing this delightful and simple recipe!

    Reply
  19. WillCookForSmiles says

    June 12, 2012 at 6:13 pm

     Glad to hear! What flavor did you add?

    Reply
  20. Debra says

    June 18, 2012 at 9:00 am

    This is very yummy.

    Reply
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Well, hey there!

I’m Lyuba Brooke, mother of 2, the cook, recipe developer, photographer, and author behind willcookforsmiles.com. I share many classic and original recipes, cooking tips, and tutorials. My passion is sharing delicious meals for everyone to try. Read More.

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