Description
Lemon Basil Hummus is a fresh, zesty, and creamy dip that combines the bright tang of lemon with the aromatic sweetness of fresh basil, blended with chickpeas and tahini for a rich, velvety texture. Perfect for healthy snacking or as an appetizer, this easy-to-make recipe is packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats, delivering a vibrant and nutritious addition to any meal or gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, washed
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 medium lemon)
- 3 tablespoons tahini
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2–4 tablespoons cold water (optional, for adjusting consistency)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas thoroughly to remove excess salt and starch. Wash the fresh basil leaves and squeeze the juice from ripe lemons, making sure to remove any seeds.
- Blend the Base: In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, garlic cloves, fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend until the mixture starts to look creamy but is still a little thick.
- Add Basil and Olive Oil: Add the fresh basil leaves and drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while blending. This helps emulsify the mixture and infuses the hummus with expressive herbaceous notes.
- Adjust Consistency and Taste: If the hummus is too thick, slowly add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, blending until you reach your desired creamy texture. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional lemon juice as needed.
- Serve or Store: Transfer your Lemon Basil Hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle with a little olive oil and garnish with a fresh basil leaf or lemon zest. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
Notes
- Use fresh basil for vibrant flavor; avoid dried basil.
- Don’t skip the tahini as it adds richness and balances lemon acidity.
- Add lemon juice gradually to prevent overpowering acidity.
- Chill the hummus in the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow flavors to meld.
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance taste and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: lemon basil hummus, fresh hummus, healthy dip, vegan appetizer, gluten free snack, basil hummus