Are you a hummus lover but garlic isn't your favorite? Don't worry, you don't have to miss out on this creamy, delicious dip! This garlic-free hummus recipe delivers all the satisfying texture and rich flavor you crave, without the pungent garlic bite. It's perfect for healthy meals, a quick dinner addition, or a delightful snack. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking, and even beginner cooks will find it a breeze to make. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained thoroughly
- 1/4 cup tahini (sesame seed paste)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 cup ice water (or more, as needed)
- Optional: Pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat, fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: The Perfect Blend: Combine the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt in a food processor.
Step 2: Blend to Smoothness: Process until completely smooth and creamy. This might take a few minutes; scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Step 3: Adjust Consistency: With the food processor running, slowly add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Too thick? Add more water. Too thin? Let it sit for a few minutes; it will thicken slightly.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust: Taste the hummus and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more lemon juice for tanginess, salt for saltiness, or a pinch of cayenne for a subtle kick.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle with extra olive oil and garnish with fresh parsley (if using). Serve with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers.
Cooking Tips for the Best Hummus:
- Thoroughly drain your chickpeas: Excess liquid will make your hummus watery. Give them a good rinse too!
- Use good quality tahini: The flavor of your tahini will greatly impact the taste of your hummus. Look for a smooth, well-flavored brand.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice is best: The bright, fresh flavor of freshly squeezed lemon juice makes a huge difference.
- Don't over-process: While you want a smooth hummus, over-processing can make it a bit gummy. Aim for smooth, not overly processed.
Variations:
- Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Add 1/2 cup of roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade) to the food processor along with the chickpeas.
- Spicy Hummus: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Roasted Garlic Hummus (for those who like a milder garlic flavor): Roast a whole head of garlic before adding a few cloves to the mixture. Roasting mellows the garlic flavor considerably.
- Cucumber Hummus: Add a 1/2 cup of chopped cucumber for a refreshing twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used. This is an estimate for a 1/4 cup serving:
- Calories: Approximately 100-150
- Protein: Approximately 4-6 grams
- Fat: Approximately 8-10 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 8-10 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 3-4 grams
This delicious and healthy hummus is a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re looking for quick dinner ideas, easy recipes, or the best recipes for healthy meals, this no-garlic hummus recipe is a winner! Enjoy!