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Olive Hummus Recipe

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3.8 from 14 reviews

This Olive Hummus recipe combines creamy chickpeas with the rich, tangy flavor of kalamata olives, enhanced by a blend of spices and fresh lemon juice. The texture is smooth and luscious, perfect for dipping or spreading, with a subtle kick from cayenne that can be adjusted to taste. Extra-virgin olive oil adds a fruity finish, making it a vibrant and delicious Mediterranean-inspired appetizer or snack.

Ingredients

Chickpeas and Olives

  • 2 cups chickpeas (aka garbanzo beans, cooked or canned)
  • 20 kalamata olives (or other olive variety)

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice (juice of 2 good size lemons)
  • 1/2 cup olive oil (extra-virgin recommended, plus more for topping as desired)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)

Spices and Seasoning

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne (omit for mild, increase for spicier)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (plus more if needed, omit if using canned or salted chickpeas)

Optional

  • Chopped cilantro or parsley (for garnish)
  • Baking soda (optional, for super creamy hummus)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Chickpeas: If using canned chickpeas, rinse them thoroughly under cold water and drain well. Optionally, peel the skins from the chickpeas for an ultra-smooth texture.
  2. Initial Blending: Add the chickpeas, kalamata olives, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, cayenne, and salt into a food processor or blender. Blend everything until smooth.
  3. Add Olive Oil: Slowly blend in the olive oil to avoid over-processing. Be careful not to over blend as this can cause the olive oil to become bitter and alter the flavor.
  4. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the hummus and adjust salt as needed. Depending on the saltiness of your olives and chickpeas, you may not need additional salt. Start with one teaspoon and increase gradually if necessary.
  5. Serve and Garnish: Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley, additional chopped olives, and a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Serve with pita bread, veggies, or use as a spread.

Notes

  • For an extra creamy hummus, try adding a pinch of baking soda before cooking the chickpeas or blending.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper to control the heat level or omit entirely for a mild hummus.
  • Peeling chickpeas is optional but helps achieve a smoother texture.
  • If you use canned chickpeas, check salt content before adding extra salt.
  • This hummus keeps well in the refrigerator for up to one week in an airtight container.
  • Add a splash of ice-cold water during blending to adjust consistency if too thick.