Description
Loaded Hummus is a creamy and flavorful Middle Eastern dip made from smooth blended chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, topped with fresh vegetables, olives, feta cheese, toasted pine nuts, and parsley. This easy no-cook recipe is perfect as an appetizer or snack, offering a delicious combination of textures and vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Hummus Base
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt to taste
- 2 to 4 tablespoons water
Toppings
- Diced cucumbers
- Cherry tomatoes
- Olives
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Toasted pine nuts
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Smoked paprika, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a food processor, add the drained chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, and salt. This will form the base of your hummus.
- Blend Until Smooth: Process all ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If the mixture feels too thick, add water gradually, one tablespoon at a time, and continue blending until you reach the desired consistency.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the hummus and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt or lemon juice according to your preference for a balanced flavor.
- Transfer to Serving Dish: Spoon the hummus into a serving bowl. Use the back of a spoon to create a well or shallow indentation in the center.
- Drizzle Olive Oil: Pour a little extra virgin olive oil into the well and lightly over the surface of the hummus to add richness and shine.
- Add Toppings: Arrange your choice of toppings evenly on the hummus—diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, olives, crumbled feta cheese, toasted pine nuts, and freshly chopped parsley all add wonderful layers of flavor and texture.
- Sprinkle Smoked Paprika: Finish by lightly sprinkling smoked paprika over the top to give a vibrant pop of color and a subtle smoky taste.
- Serve: Serve the loaded hummus immediately alongside pita chips, warm bread, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- You can customize the toppings according to your preference or what you have available.
- If you prefer a thicker hummus, use less water; for a creamier consistency, add more.
- Toasting the pine nuts enhances their flavor and crunch—toast them lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden.
- For a vegan option, omit the feta cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
- Hummus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
