Classic Hummus

Let's kick off this hummus extravaganza with a classic recipe that serves as an excellent base for all the variations to come. The key to silky smooth hummus is to start with perfectly cooked chickpeas. I recommend soaking dried chickpeas overnight and then cooking them until tender.

Once you have your cooked chickpeas, it's time to blend them with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Be sure to reserve some chickpeas for garnish. Blend until creamy and smooth, adding a little water if needed. Taste and adjust the seasoning.

To serve, drizzle the hummus with extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle with paprika or za'atar, and garnish with the reserved chickpeas. Classic hummus is a crowd-pleaser and pairs well with fresh vegetables, pita bread, or crunchy crackers.

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

If you're looking to add a burst of flavor to your hummus, roasted red pepper hummus is the way to go. The smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers pairs perfectly with the creamy hummus base.

To make this variation, start by roasting red bell peppers until the skin is charred. Let them cool, then remove the skins and seeds. Add the roasted red peppers along with the classic hummus ingredients to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and vibrant in color.

Garnish the roasted red pepper hummus with a drizzle of olive oil, chopped fresh parsley, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika. This hummus is a delightful addition to sandwiches, wraps, or as a dip for crispy tortilla chips.

Spicy Jalapeno Hummus

For those who enjoy a little heat, the spicy jalapeno hummus will tantalize your taste buds. This variation combines the creaminess of hummus with the fiery kick of jalapeno peppers.

To make this spicy hummus, start by removing the seeds and membranes from two jalapeno peppers. Chop them and add them to the blender along with the classic hummus ingredients. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Top the spicy jalapeno hummus with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of chili flakes, and some chopped fresh cilantro. This hummus is perfect for adding a spicy twist to your sandwiches, tacos, or as a dip for crispy tortilla chips.

Beetroot Hummus

If you're looking to add a vibrant pop of color to your hummus spread, look no further than beetroot hummus. This stunning variation combines the earthy sweetness of beets with the creamy hummus base.

To make beetroot hummus, simply roast or boil a medium-sized beet until tender. Let it cool, then peel and chop it into smaller pieces. Add the beetroot along with the classic hummus ingredients to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and luscious.

Garnish the beetroot hummus with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and some chopped fresh mint. This hummus adds a vibrant and nutritious touch to your sandwiches, wraps, or as a dip for crispy vegetable sticks.

Avocado Cilantro Hummus

For an indulgent twist on classic hummus, try the avocado cilantro hummus. Creamy avocado and fresh cilantro take this variation to new heights of flavor and richness.

To make this avocado cilantro hummus, blend ripe avocados, fresh cilantro, and lime juice until smooth. Add the classic hummus ingredients and blend again until well combined.

Garnish the avocado cilantro hummus with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of ground cumin, and some chopped fresh cilantro. This hummus is a perfect spread for sandwiches, a topping for baked potatoes, or as a dip for crunchy vegetable chips.