If you love Mediterranean flavors and crave something creamy yet healthy, this easy homemade hummus is about to become your go-to snack. Made with simple pantry ingredients like chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, this hummus is smooth, velvety, and loaded with flavor. It’s perfect for dipping veggies, spreading on sandwiches, or serving as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Smooth and Creamy Texture: Achieve restaurant-quality hummus right at home.
- Wholesome and Healthy: Naturally gluten-free, vegan, and high in plant-based protein.
- Quick to Make: Ready in just 10 minutes using your food processor.
- Customizable Flavor: Adjust the lemon, garlic, or spice level to your taste.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses inexpensive ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
Ingredients

- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- ¼ cup well-stirred tahini
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt to taste (start with ½ teaspoon)
- 2 to 3 tablespoons cold water (for desired consistency)
- Paprika or sumac, for garnish
- Cooked chickpeas, olive oil, and parsley for topping (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions

- Blend Tahini and Lemon Juice: In a food processor, combine tahini and lemon juice. Process for about 1 minute until creamy. This step helps whip the tahini and create a fluffy base.
- Add Garlic and Seasoning: Add minced garlic, olive oil, ground cumin, and salt to the whipped tahini. Blend again until smooth.
- Add Chickpeas: Add half of the chickpeas and blend for 1 minute. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl, then add the remaining chickpeas and blend until thick and smooth.
- Adjust Texture: While blending, slowly add 2 to 3 tablespoons of cold water until your hummus reaches your preferred creamy consistency.
- Taste and Adjust: Sample your hummus and adjust seasoning, add more salt, lemon juice, or garlic as desired.
- Serve: Transfer to a bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle paprika or sumac. Add chickpeas and parsley on top for a beautiful finish.
Tips & Variations
- Roasted Garlic Hummus: Replace raw garlic with roasted garlic for a mellow, sweet flavor.
- Spicy Hummus: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne or blend in a roasted red pepper.
- Extra Creamy Tip: Peel the chickpeas for a smoother texture, it takes time but makes a big difference.
- Flavor Boost: Mix in a dash of smoked paprika or roasted sesame oil.
- Low-Sodium Version: Use no-salt chickpeas and control the salt yourself.
Storage & Freezer Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent drying.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and stir before serving.
- Meal Prep Tip: Store in small containers for easy grab-and-go snacks during the week.
- Avoid Dryness: Add a splash of lemon juice or olive oil after defrosting to revive the texture.
Serving & Pairing Ideas
This easy homemade hummus pairs beautifully with so many foods. Try these ideas:

- Dips: Serve with pita bread, cucumber slices, carrots, celery, or bell peppers.
- Spreads: Use as a sandwich or wrap spread for a creamy, healthy layer.
- Bowls: Add a dollop to grain bowls or Mediterranean salads.
- Appetizer Board: Include on a mezze platter with olives, feta, and grilled veggies.
- Topping: Drizzle over roasted vegetables or baked potatoes for added creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make hummus without tahini?
Yes. You can substitute tahini with Greek yogurt, peanut butter, or sunflower seed butter, though the flavor will differ slightly. Tahini gives hummus its authentic nutty taste.
How do I make hummus extra smooth?
Peel the chickpeas before blending and whip the tahini with lemon juice first. Also, add cold water gradually while blending for a fluffier texture.
Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Absolutely! Soak 1 cup of dried chickpeas overnight, then boil until tender. Use about 1½ cups cooked chickpeas in place of canned.
What can I do if my hummus tastes bitter?
Bitterness can come from old tahini or too much garlic. Add more lemon juice or olive oil to balance the flavor.
Ready to Make It?
Whip up this easy homemade hummus today and enjoy a creamy, wholesome dip that’s perfect for snacking, sharing, or meal prepping.
You Might Also Like
- Roasted Red Pepper Sauce – A smoky, vibrant sauce perfect for pasta or dipping
- Greek Yogurt Parfaits – A light and layered breakfast or snack option
- Spinach Quiche – A savory, protein-packed breakfast classic
- Vegetable Stir-Fry – Quick, colorful, and full of flavor for weeknight dinners
Homemade Hummus Dip
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Creamy, smooth, and full of flavor, this easy homemade hummus is made with chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, perfect for dipping or spreading.
Ingredients
1 can chickpeas
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/4 cup tahini
1 garlic clove
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp cumin
Salt to taste
2–3 tbsp cold water
Paprika and parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Blend tahini and lemon juice until creamy.
2. Add garlic, olive oil, cumin, and salt. Blend again.
3. Add chickpeas and blend until smooth.
4. Gradually add cold water for texture.
5. Adjust seasoning and serve with olive oil and paprika.
Notes
Store in the fridge for 5 days or freeze for 3 months. Serve with veggies, pita, or as a spread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg