Classic lemon garlic hummus is one of my favorite snacks, especially in May when everything in Tennessee is green, blooming, and full of fresh garden produce. By this time of year, the cold is completely gone, school is out, and we have more time to enjoy God’s beautiful creation.
I’m always ready to eat lighter and healthier during the summer months, and this classic lemon garlic hummus is the perfect way to do that. It’s a nutritious snack or appetizer that pairs well with all sorts of veggies from the garden. I especially love it with freshly picked cucumbers!
How to Make Classic Lemon Garlic Hummus
Making classic lemon garlic hummus at home is quick and easy. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a smooth, flavorful dip that’s perfect for snacking or serving at gatherings. Follow these steps to get the best texture and taste.
Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas
Start with a 15 oz can of garbanzo beans (aka chickpeas here in the South) and rinse and drain them in a colander. This helps remove excess starch and any lingering canning liquid, which can affect the flavor and texture of the hummus. I like to buy the no-salt-added version so that I can control the salt level.
Step 2: Add the Tahini
Next, you’ll need 3 tablespoons of tahini. Tahini is a paste made from ground sesame seeds. It is a popular component of many Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes. You’ll find this in the International section of the grocery store, probably near the Asian or Kosher foods.
Step 3: Blend the Ingredients
Pour the garbanzo beans, tahini, and 1 tablespoon of minced fresh garlic into a food processor. You’ll also want to add in the juice of one lemon (about 2 tablespoons) and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Finally, sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon of Kosher salt, 1/8 teaspoon of pepper, and 1/8 teaspoon of red pepper flakes.
Step 4: Adjust the Consistency
Blend all the ingredients until they are smooth. You will probably need to add some water to the classic lemon garlic hummus but start with a small amount. I used 2 tablespoons of water and blended the mixture until I had the right consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Simply pour the classic lemon garlic hummus into a serving dish and sprinkle on your favorite toppings. I used red pepper flakes and some chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. You can also drizzle a little olive oil on top or add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a deeper taste. Serve it with fresh veggies, pita chips, or as a spread for sandwiches.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
My kids love to eat this classic lemon garlic hummus with cucumbers. We grow them in our garden every year, and we always have a TON to go through. This is a great way to use them up and to get my kids to eat something healthy for a snack. Hummus and cucumbers beat goldfish and granola bars any day!
Classic lemon garlic hummus also tastes great on pita chips or other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and celery. I have even heard of people using hummus as a spread on their hamburgers and sandwiches rather than using mayonnaise and mustard. Hummus is a great option if you are serving vegans or gluten-free friends at a party.
For other healthy snacking ideas, check out my reduced calorie spinach artichoke dip or my Greek pasta salad. There are also a ton of dinner recipes on my recipe index. You can also follow my Healthy Eating board on Pinterest.
Happy cooking, y’all!
