This killer hummus with whole chickpeas is about to become your new go-to dish. It’s quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor.
Creamy, garlicky, and sprinkled with smoky paprika, it’s the perfect combination of heart-healthy ingredients and irresistible taste. This hummus will steal the spotlight at any table.
Why Hummus is Perfect for Dinner
Hummus is more than just a snack; it’s a versatile, nutrient-packed dish that can elevate your dinner spread. Made from chickpeas, tahini, and olive oil, this is rich in protein and healthy fats, keeping you full and energized.
Pair it with fresh vegetables, pita bread, or even as a topping for grilled meats, and you’ve got a balanced meal that’s both indulgent and wholesome.
STOP BUYING GREENS: This Machine Grows $1000s Worth Automatically
✓ Set It & Forget It: Fully Automated Growing
✓ From Seed to Harvest in Days - No Experience Needed
✓ Grow Premium Microgreens Worth $50/lb Year-Round
Note: This is an affiliate link and we may earn a small commission if you purchase at no additional cost. This helps keep our website free to use.
Unlike heavier dinner options, this recipe brings light yet satisfying flavors that won’t weigh you down. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in extra servings of vegetables and plant-based protein for everyone at the table.
Tips for Making the Creamiest Hummus
The secret to this hummus recipe lies in its silky texture and bold flavors. Here’s how to achieve hummus perfection:
- Use Warm Chickpeas: Blending warm chickpeas straight after cooking ensures a smoother, creamier consistency.
- Add Baking Soda: Cooking the chickpeas with baking soda helps break down the skins, making them easier to blend.
- Balance the Flavors: Don’t skimp on the lemon juice and garlic—they’re the key to that bright flavor.
For a garnish that adds texture and visual appeal, save a few cooked chickpeas and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil before serving.
Customizing This Dinner Recipe to Suit Your Needs
This hummus can easily adapt to various dietary needs and preferences:
- Vegan-Friendly: It’s naturally plant-based, making it ideal for vegan dinner spreads.
- Gluten-Free Options: Swap pita bread for cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, or gluten-free crackers for dipping.
- Spicy Twist: Sprinkle in red chili flakes or a touch of harissa for a fiery kick.
- Herby Variation: Add a handful of fresh parsley or cilantro to the blender for an herbed twist.
With these simple tweaks, you can turn this hummus into a showstopping centerpiece for any occasion.
Pairing Ideas
While this hummus is undeniably delicious on its own, pairing it with complementary dishes creates a cohesive dinner. Here are a few ideas:
- Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers pair beautifully with hummus.
- Fresh Salads: A crisp Greek salad with feta and olives enhances the flavors of the dish.
- Pita and Flatbreads: Warm, fluffy pita bread is the classic choice for scooping up every last bite.
- Protein Options: Serve alongside grilled chicken skewers or falafel for a more substantial meal.
These combinations make it easy to create a restaurant-worthy Mediterranean dinner in the comfort of your home.
The Perfect Dish for Gatherings or Solo Meals
The creamy hummus topped with golden chickpeas and a dusting of paprika will impress guests, while the flavor-packed recipe satisfies even the pickiest eaters.
For those who love meal prep, this dish is a lifesaver. Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge—it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Bringing Deliciousness to Your Table
This hummus recipe is wholesome, simple, and bursting with flavors that celebrate fresh, heart-healthy ingredients. From weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Serve it up, and get ready to fall in love with the simplicity and deliciousness of dining!
Killer Hummus with Whole Chickpeas Recipe for Dinner
Equipment
- Blender or food processor
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried chickpeas or canned chickpeas ; see note for substitution
- 3 ¾ teaspoons kosher salt plus more as needed
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice from 1 ½ to 2 large lemons
- 2 to 3 garlic cloves to taste, grated or minced
- 1 cup tahini
- ¾ teaspoon ground cumin
- 4 to 6 tablespoons ice water
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil plus more for drizzling
- Sweet or hot paprika for dusting
Instructions
- Soak the Chickpeas: Place the dried chickpeas in a large bowl and cover with water, making sure there’s plenty of water above the chickpeas since they’ll expand. Add a pinch of salt and let soak overnight. Alternatively, you can use a quick-soak method by pouring boiling water over the chickpeas and letting them sit for 2 hours. Drain and rinse before cooking.
- Cook the Chickpeas: Transfer the soaked chickpeas to a large pot and pour enough water to cover them by at least 4 inches. Stir in the baking soda and 2 teaspoons of salt. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook the chickpeas until they’re very soft and almost falling apart, about 1 to 1 ½ hours. Drain them, reserving about 3 tablespoons for garnish.
- Start the Base: In a blender or food processor, combine the lemon juice, garlic, and 1 ¾ teaspoons salt. Let this mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Add the tahini and cumin, then blend the mixture until it forms a thick paste. Gradually add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, blending in between, until the mixture is smooth.
- Blend in the Chickpeas: While the blender is running, add the warm chickpeas and olive oil. Blend until the hummus becomes silky smooth, pausing to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed. This should take about 2 minutes. If the hummus is too thick, add more ice water or lemon juice, a little at a time, to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the salt and seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Spoon the hummus onto a flat serving plate, spreading it out slightly with the back of a spoon. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with paprika, and top with the reserved chickpeas for garnish.
Notes
- Canned Chickpea Substitution: Substitute 1 ½ cans (15 oz each) of chickpeas, rinsed and drained. Microwave them for 30-45 seconds to warm before blending. Use 2 to 4 tablespoons of warm water as needed in the blending step.
- Overcooked chickpeas yield smoother hummus, so ensure they are soft before proceeding.
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.