Appetizer

Mediterranean Hummus with Roasted Red Peppers and Za'atar

Silky smooth homemade hummus that's better than any store-bought version, topped with roasted red peppers and aromatic za'atar spice blend. This Middle Eastern classic is perfect for snacking, appetizers, or as a healthy sandwich spread. The secret to ultra-creamy hummus is removing the chickpea skins and adding plenty of tahini.

⏱️
Prep
10 min
🍽️
Servings
8
🔥
Calories
140
Mediterranean Hummus with Roasted Red Peppers and Za'atar - delicious and easy to make

Ingredients

Nutrition Facts

Calories
140
Protein
5g
Carbs
14g
Fat
8g

Instructions

  1. 1

    For extra-smooth hummus, remove the skins from the chickpeas by rubbing them gently between your hands. This step is optional but makes a noticeable difference in texture.

    💡 Pro Tip: This takes about 5 minutes and is worth it for restaurant-quality hummus.
  2. 2

    In a food processor, combine tahini and lemon juice. Process for 1 minute, scrape down sides, and process for another 30 seconds. This makes the tahini creamy and light.

  3. 3

    Add garlic, cumin, and salt. Process for 30 seconds.

  4. 4

    Add half of the chickpeas and process for 1 minute. Add remaining chickpeas and process until thick and smooth, about 1-2 minutes.

  5. 5

    With the processor running, slowly drizzle in 2-4 tablespoons of ice water until hummus reaches your desired consistency - it should be smooth and creamy but still hold its shape.

    💡 Pro Tip: Ice water helps make the hummus fluffier and lighter.
  6. 6

    Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or lemon juice if needed.

  7. 7

    Transfer to a serving bowl. Use the back of a spoon to create a well in the center. Drizzle with olive oil, top with diced roasted red peppers, sprinkle with za'atar and paprika. Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with warm pita bread or fresh vegetables.

👨‍🍳 Chef's Tips

Toast the cumin seeds before grinding for deeper flavor. Always taste your tahini first - if it's bitter, add more lemon juice. For smooth hummus, process longer than you think you need to. Make hummus ahead - it actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours. Try flavor variations: add roasted garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh herbs like cilantro or dill.

🔄 Substitutions

White beans can replace chickpeas for a different flavor. If you don't have za'atar, mix dried thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac. Sunflower seed butter works for nut-free version instead of tahini. For oil-free hummus, use aquafaba (chickpea liquid) instead of olive oil. Regular bell peppers can replace roasted red peppers.

📦 Storage

Store hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Drizzle with olive oil before covering to prevent drying out. Bring to room temperature 30 minutes before serving for best flavor. Hummus can be frozen for up to 4 months - thaw overnight in refrigerator and stir well, adding water if needed to restore creaminess.

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