Ultra-smooth hummus made from chickpeas, tahini, and lemon is topped with golden toasted pine nuts, fresh herbs, and a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Served with warm flatbread or crisp pita chips, this classic Mediterranean dip is a simple yet refined appetizer, snack, or side dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This hummus is luxuriously creamy, packed with bright, nutty flavor, and comes together quickly using pantry staples. Toasted pine nuts add a rich crunch, while the olive oil enhances the earthy tahini and garlic base. Whether you’re entertaining or preparing a healthy snack, this recipe offers versatility, ease, and elegance in every bite.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (plus more for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 3–4 tablespoons cold water
- Salt to taste
For topping:
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Extra olive oil for drizzling
Directions
- In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and a pinch of salt.
- Blend the mixture until smooth, pausing to scrape down the sides as necessary.
- With the processor running, add cold water one tablespoon at a time until the hummus reaches a creamy, whipped consistency.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or lemon juice if needed.
- Spoon the hummus into a serving bowl and use the back of a spoon to create a swirl on the surface.
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts until golden and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.
- Drizzle the hummus with additional olive oil, then top with the toasted pine nuts and chopped parsley.
- Serve with pita chips, raw vegetables, or warm flatbread.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 3 minutes
Total time: 13 minutes
Variations
- Roasted garlic: Replace raw garlic with roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter flavor.
- Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of chili oil for heat.
- Herbed hummus: Blend in fresh basil, dill, or cilantro for an herby variation.
- Beet or carrot hummus: Add roasted vegetables like beets or carrots for color and flavor.
- Smoky flavor: Add a touch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder for depth.
storage/reheating
Store leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Stir well before serving as the olive oil may separate slightly. Hummus does not require reheating and is typically served chilled or at room temperature. Pine nuts can be toasted ahead and stored separately for freshness.
FAQs
Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Yes, but they must be soaked overnight and cooked until very soft. This will improve the texture and flavor of the hummus.
Why is my hummus not creamy?
Ensure you’re blending long enough and adding enough cold water gradually. Removing chickpea skins also enhances creaminess.
Can I make hummus without tahini?
You can, but tahini provides a signature richness. Substitute with sunflower seed butter or Greek yogurt for a similar texture.
Is hummus healthy?
Yes, hummus is a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats when enjoyed in moderation.
What can I serve with hummus?
Pita chips, sliced cucumbers, carrots, bell peppers, crackers, or warm flatbread pair well.
How long does homemade hummus last?
Homemade hummus stays fresh for about 4–5 days when stored in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze hummus?
Yes, hummus can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and stir well before serving.
What does adding ice water do?
Ice-cold water helps emulsify the tahini and chickpeas, resulting in a fluffier and creamier hummus.
Can I make it in a blender?
Yes, but high-powered blenders are more effective. A food processor is typically easier to control and scrape down.
Can I toast pine nuts in advance?
Yes, toasted pine nuts can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Conclusion
Creamy Hummus with Pine Nuts and Olive Oil is a simple yet sophisticated dip that captures the essence of Mediterranean flavor. With its velvety texture, nutty richness, and fresh toppings, it’s a timeless addition to any meal or gathering. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, it’s a staple that belongs in every kitchen.
Print
Creamy Hummus with Pine Nuts and Olive Oil
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 1 1/2 cups 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Blended
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Ultra-smooth and creamy hummus blended with tahini, lemon, and garlic, finished with golden pine nuts, fresh parsley, and a generous drizzle of olive oil—ideal for dipping or spreading.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (plus more for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 3–4 tablespoons cold water
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Extra olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and a pinch of salt.
- Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Add cold water one tablespoon at a time until desired creamy consistency is reached.
- Taste and adjust salt or lemon juice as needed.
- Spoon hummus into a shallow bowl and create a swirl with the back of a spoon.
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast pine nuts until golden, about 2–3 minutes.
- Drizzle hummus with olive oil, sprinkle with pine nuts and chopped parsley.
- Serve with pita chips, veggies, or warm flatbread.
Notes
- For an extra smooth texture, peel the chickpeas before blending.
- Use ice water instead of cold water to enhance creaminess.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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