Name: Classic Creamy Hummus Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 (15-ounce) cans chickpeas, drained with liquid reserved; ¾ cup reserved chickpea liquid, plus more if needed; ⅔ cup tahini; 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving; ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice (from 4 lemons); 1 teaspoon lemon zest (from 2 lemons); 2 garlic cloves, peeled; ½ teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste; Flat-leaf parsley; Paprika; Za’atar; Fresh vegetables (carrots, cucumber, celery, bell peppers); Pita bread, warmed

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 89 reviews

If you have ever thought that making hummus at home was complicated, the Classic Creamy Hummus Recipe will change your mind entirely! This recipe is incredibly easy yet results in a smooth, velvety dip bursting with bright lemon zing, rich tahini, and just the right amount of garlic punch. Whether you’re prepping an appetizer for a casual gathering or simply craving a wholesome snack, this Classic Creamy Hummus Recipe delivers that perfect balance of freshness and creaminess that elevates any meal or party spread.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white bowl with a blue rim filled with beige chickpeas in the center. Around it, on a white marbled surface, there is a white bowl of smooth tan tahini sauce, a small white bowl with shredded yellow lemon zest, a small white bowl with red paprika powder, a small beige bowl with two garlic cloves, a white cup of olive oil, a gray stone bowl of salt, a small glass of pale yellow lemon juice, and a glass jug of light yellow broth. To the right, a white plate holds folded pita bread with slices of green cucumber on top. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Classic Creamy Hummus Recipe starts with a handful of simple ingredients that work harmoniously to create its signature flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role, from the luscious creaminess of tahini to the citrusy brightness of fresh lemon juice, making the final dish more than just a dip—it’s an experience.

Chickpeas: The star ingredient providing protein and that smooth, creamy base.
Reserved chickpea liquid: Helps achieve the perfect silky texture without thinning the flavor.
Tahini: Adds a nutty, creamy richness fundamental to classic hummus.
Extra-virgin olive oil: Boosts flavor depth and gives a pleasant richness.
Fresh lemon juice: Offers zesty brightness and balances the earthiness of chickpeas.
Lemon zest: Enhances citrus aroma and complexity.
Garlic cloves: Delivers that unmistakable savory kick with just the right bite.
Sea salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.

How to Make Classic Creamy Hummus Recipe

Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients

Start by draining your canned chickpeas, but don’t throw away the liquid! Reserve about ¾ cup; this starchy liquid is the secret weapon for achieving that perfect creamy texture without adding water. Have your tahini, garlic cloves, lemon juice and zest, olive oil, and salt ready to go for seamless blending.

Step 2: Blend the Base Ingredients

Place the chickpeas and the reserved liquid into a high-powered blender or food processor to avoid grainy hummus. Add tahini, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, peeled garlic cloves, and sea salt. If you want an even silkier hummus, try rubbing the skins off the chickpeas before blending—it’s a bit of extra work but worth the time for that ultra-smooth result.

Step 3: Blend Until Lusciously Smooth

Start blending on low speed just to combine the ingredients, then gradually increase to high speed and blend for about 5 minutes. This slow build-up helps create that luscious, creamy finish. If the mixture seems too thick, add reserved chickpea liquid one tablespoon at a time until the texture is just right. Taste and adjust the salt for that perfect balance.

Step 4: Serve with Flair

Transfer your creamy hummus into a shallow bowl and use the back of a spoon to create gentle swirls on the surface. Drizzle extra-virgin olive oil over the top, and it’s ready for garnishing and serving.

How to Serve Classic Creamy Hummus Recipe

A clear blender container holds several layers of ingredients starting with a thick beige tahini paste on the bottom left, surrounded by tan chickpeas on the right side. On top of the tahini and chickpeas, there are two whole white garlic cloves, bright yellow lemon zest, and a small pile of white salt. A clear glass pitcher is pouring a light yellow liquid, likely lemon juice, into the blender from the lower right corner. The setup rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The right toppings can transform your Classic Creamy Hummus Recipe from simple to show-stopping. Fresh flat-leaf parsley adds a vibrant herbal note while paprika brings a pop of color and subtle smoky warmth. Za’atar, a fragrant Middle Eastern spice blend, adds a delightful earthy complexity that pairs beautifully with the creamy dip.

Side Dishes

Serve this hummus alongside freshly cut crisp vegetables like carrots, cucumber, celery, and bell peppers—they provide a satisfying crunch that balances the creaminess perfectly. Warmed pita bread or lightly toasted pita chips are classic companions for dipping, soaking up every luscious bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun and inviting presentation, try layering your hummus in a wide bowl with swirls of olive oil, scattered garnishes, and a sprinkle of sumac or toasted pine nuts for some extra texture and flavor. You can also use this dip as a luscious spread on sandwiches or wraps to give everyday meals a vibrant boost of Mediterranean flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover hummus keeps its fresh, creamy charm when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Give it a good stir before serving and drizzle a little fresh olive oil on top to revitalize its richness and keep it bright.

Freezing

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze hummus for up to 3 months. Store it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then whisk or stir thoroughly to bring back its creamy texture.

Reheating

Hummus is usually served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary. However, if you prefer it slightly warm, gently warm it in a bowl over simmering water, stirring occasionally to keep the texture smooth and avoid overheating, which can affect flavor.

FAQs

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Absolutely! If you opt for dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook them until tender before using. Just remember to reserve some cooking liquid to help achieve the creamy texture in place of canned chickpea liquid.

Is tahini necessary for this Classic Creamy Hummus Recipe?

Tahini is essential for that rich, nutty flavor and creamy consistency that defines classic hummus. While you can omit it, the taste and texture will be noticeably different, so it’s well worth including.

How can I make my hummus smoother?

Remove the skins from the chickpeas before blending and use a high-powered blender with reserved liquid to get that velvety finish. Blending longer on high speed also helps create a more luscious texture.

Can I make this hummus spicy?

Definitely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of smoked paprika, or even a few fresh jalapeño slices to the blender for a spicy kick that complements the creamy base beautifully.

What are some good substitutes for olive oil?

Extra-virgin olive oil is ideal for flavor and texture, but you can substitute with avocado oil or a mild-flavored vegetable oil if needed. Just avoid strong or flavored oils that might overpower the delicate balance of ingredients.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Classic Creamy Hummus Recipe that makes it a must-have in your kitchen repertoire. Its simplicity, fresh ingredients, and unbeatable creaminess come together to create a dip that’s not only healthy but irresistibly delicious. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how easily you can elevate your snacking and entertaining game with this homemade gem!

Classic Creamy Hummus Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need