Last Updated on 13 May, 2026 by Elby | The Tasteful Pantry
Zesty hummus is a cheat treat to me. How can something that tastes so good be healthy, budget-friendly, both gluten and dairy free AND something the kids love!
We ordered some hummus at a restaurant just recently on Mother’s Day and, well, I didn’t say anything because I am obviously biased, but my daughter leant over and whispered “Mum, yours is so much better than this“. Best. Mother’s. Day. Gift!!
Enjoy as a dip with Crispy Spiced Tortilla Chips, spread it on a sandwich or wrap, serve it with Middle Eastern Lamb Fillets, Succulent Lamb Kofta, or Roasted Carrot Salad – I think you’ll love this hummus as much as I do.
Ingredients for Garlic Hummus
This classic Middle Eastern dip has a rich, creamy texture with an earthy, citrussy, garlic flavour. And best of all, I usually have most of the ingredients on hand to make some last minute dip.
- canned chickpeas, plus the liquid
- garlic
- tahini (sesame paste)
- lemon
- light extra virgin olive oil
- salt
- paprika
- parsley, oil and paprika for garnish (optional)
How to Make Hummus
You will need some form of blender. I use a mini ‘smoothie’ blender, but you can use a food processor or stick blender. Anything that will make a super smooth hummus.
Drain the chickpeas (there is no need to rinse them), but make sure you reserve the liquid. Place the chickpeas in the blender along with the rest of the ingredients. Also add two tablespoons of the reserved liquid and blend.
I can’t emphasise this enough, taste your hummus and adjust as necessary. Add more lemon juice for tang, extra salt or pepper for flavour, a little more tahini if you like a nuttier finish, or an extra clove of garlic for zing. Most of the ingredients in this easy hummus will vary in flavour depending on the brand of chickpeas, variety of oil, age and size of garlic, acidity of lemon, etc. So, no version will really be identical. However, this recipe provides the backbone of the dish and gives you the option to adjust as necessary.
For a thinner hummus, continue to add small amounts of chickpea liquid until you reach the perfect creamy consistency.
Once you have your perfect consistency and flavour, transfer the hummus to a serving bowl and refrigerate for 20 minutes. When ready to serve, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, and sprinkle with a touch of paprika and fresh parsley, if desired.
Tips for Perfect Zesty Hummus
- Chickpeas: This recipe calls for canned chickpeas, however you can use dried if you prefer and swap the chickpea liquid for water. If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook them until tender. Cooking chickpeas with a little baking soda can help soften them further, ensuring an ultra-smooth hummus.
- Blending: Be patient with blending – letting the processor run for several minutes will give you that airy, silky texture.
- Experiment: Hummus is incredibly versatile. Try adding char-grilled red peppers, ground cumin or a hint of harissa for different flavour profiles. You can also top your hummus with toasted pine nuts, caramelised onions, or roasted chickpeas for extra texture.
- Storage: This hummus with lemon and garlic keeps well in the fridge for up to a week. Store it in an airtight container and give it a quick stir before serving. If it thickens up too much, you can add a drizzle of olive oil or a little water to loosen it back up.
How To Serve Zesty Hummus
While hummus is great served as part of a Middle Eastern mezze, it can be used in so many ways:
- As a Dip: Serve it with warm pita bread, crackers, or a colourful plate of vegetables like carrots, cucumber, and peppers.
- In Sandwiches and Wraps: Spread zesty hummus generously inside flatbreads or wraps, along with falafel, grilled vegetables, or even leftover roast chicken.
- Salad Dressing Base: Whisk hummus with a little extra olive oil and lemon juice to create a creamy dressing for salads.
- As a Side Dish: Hummus pairs beautifully with grilled meats, Middle Eastern Lamb Fillets, chicken, or Koftas. It’s the perfect creamy contrast to smoky, charred flavours.
Making hummus at home is easier than you might think, and the fresh taste far surpasses anything you’ll find in the supermarket. Give it a try, and once you’ve mastered the basics, get creative with your flavours!
FAQs about Zesty Hummus
How do I make a smooth hummus?
Blending for longer helps quite a bit. Slightly warming the chickpeas or peeling the skins can also create an ultra-creamy texture.
Is hummus spicy?
Not usually. While you can add some chilli flakes or a dash of cayenne if you want some heart, but traditionally hummus is not spicy.
How long does homemade hummus last?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it will usually keep well for about 4–5 days.
Why is my hummus too thick?
You may need to add some extra chickpea liquid, lemon juice or oil. You want it just thin enough to be able to blend to a smooth consistency, but it shouldn’t be runny.
Feedback and More: Have you given the zesty hummus recipe a go? While you’re still on the page, let me know in the comments below. Cheers, Elby!
If you liked this recipe, check out some of my other tasty Middle Eastern inspired recipes. Also, follow The Tasteful Pantry on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest for all the latest recipes and info.
Zesty Hummus
*Note: Adjusting servings will not adjust the ‘light grey’ quantities
Ingredients
- 400 grams canned chickpeas - drained, but reserve the liquid
- 2 cloves garlic - peeled
- 60 mls lemon juice
- 55 grams tahini
- 2 tbsp olive oil - light extra virgin
- ¼ tsp pepper
- ¼ tsp salt
- ⅛ tsp paprika - sweet
Instructions
- Place all ingredients, plus 2 tablespoons of the chickpea liquid, into a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth.
- Add additional chickpea liquid, 1 tablespoon at a time, as necessary to get the consistency right.
- Most of the ingredients in this hummus can vary in flavour, depending on brands, varieties, age or size of garlic, etc. So, it is really important to taste and adjust with additional salt, lemon and tahini as necessary.
- Refrigerate to cool a little before serving.Serve with spiced tortilla chips.
Nutrition
*Nutrition and calorie figures are estimates only.
So good and much better than store bought!