Basic Classic Hummus Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas (aka garbanzo beans), drained & rinsed
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
• 1/4 cup well-stirred tahini
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt to taste
• 2–4 tablespoons cold water
• Optional garnish: paprika, parsley, more olive oil

Instructions:

1. Blend lemon juice & tahini first:
   In a food processor, combine lemon juice and tahini. Blend for 1 minute until smooth and creamy—this helps create that super fluffy texture.

2. Add garlic, cumin, and salt:
   Pulse to combine. Adjust garlic based on your preference—raw garlic adds a sharp kick!

3. Add chickpeas:
   Toss in your drained chickpeas and blend until thick and smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.

4. Add olive oil + water:
   While blending, slowly drizzle in olive oil. Add cold water a little at a time to reach desired creaminess.

5. Taste and adjust:
   Add more lemon, salt, or water as needed. Blend again until dreamy.

6. Serve:
   Spoon into a bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with paprika or chopped parsley.

Bonus Variations:

• Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Add 1/2 cup roasted red peppers
• Spicy Hummus: Add cayenne, harissa, or a bit of sriracha
• Beet Hummus: Blend in a small cooked beet for color + sweetness
• Avocado Hummus: Toss in 1 ripe avocado for extra creaminess