Are you craving a vibrant and flavorful appetizer that's both easy to make and incredibly delicious? Look no further! This Cava Spicy Hummus recipe is your answer. Inspired by the beloved Mediterranean restaurant chain, this homemade version captures that signature spicy kick and creamy texture, all while being surprisingly simple to whip up. Perfect for a quick weeknight snack, a vibrant party appetizer, or a healthy addition to your lunch, this spicy hummus is guaranteed to become a new favorite. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1/4 cup water (or more, for desired consistency)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: Chopped fresh cilantro, paprika, a drizzle of olive oil, toasted pine nuts
Instructions:
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Combine ingredients: Add the chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to a food processor.
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Blend until smooth: Process until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. This may take a few minutes.
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Adjust consistency: With the food processor running, slowly add the water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. You may need more or less depending on your food processor and the chickpeas.
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Season to taste: Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want more lemon juice, cayenne pepper, or cumin depending on your preferences.
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Serve and enjoy: Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as chopped cilantro, a sprinkle of paprika, a drizzle of olive oil, or toasted pine nuts. Serve with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers.
Tips for the Best Spicy Hummus:
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Using canned chickpeas: Make sure to rinse your chickpeas thoroughly before using them to remove any excess starch, which can make the hummus less creamy.
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Roasting the chickpeas: For an even deeper flavor, roast the chickpeas in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes before blending. This will enhance their natural sweetness and nuttiness.
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Tahini quality matters: Using a high-quality tahini will make a noticeable difference in the flavor and texture of your hummus.
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Adjust the spice level: Start with a smaller amount of cayenne pepper and add more to taste. Remember, you can always add more spice, but you can't take it away!
Variations:
- Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Add 1/2 cup of roasted red peppers to the food processor for a sweeter and richer flavor.
- Classic Hummus: Omit the cayenne pepper for a milder, traditional hummus.
- Garlic Lovers Hummus: Add an extra clove or two of garlic for a stronger garlic flavor.
- Lemon Herb Hummus: Add 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley or dill for a fresh herbal twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on serving size and toppings)
This delicious and healthy dip is perfect for satisfying your cravings in a healthy and delicious way. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest – easy, quick, and packed with flavor. Enjoy this easy recipe and explore the endless possibilities with different variations. It's a great addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals.