🥣 Creamy Hummus with Olive Oil & Paprika

🥣 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

🌿 Main Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz / 400 g) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed

• ¼ cup tahini (sesame seed paste)

• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 2–4 tbsp cold water (to adjust texture)

• ½ tsp ground cumin

• Salt to taste

🍋 For Garnish

• 1 tbsp olive oil (for drizzling)

• ¼ tsp smoked paprika or sumac

• Fresh parsley (optional)

• A few whole chickpeas for decoration

👩‍🍳 Instructions

✅ Step 1: Prepare Chickpeas

1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.

2. For extra-smooth hummus, peel the chickpeas by rubbing them gently in a towel (optional but worth it!).

✅ Step 2: Blend the Base

1. In a food processor, combine tahini, lemon juice, and garlic.

2. Blend for 30 seconds, then scrape the sides and blend again — this step makes the hummus creamy and light.

✅ Step 3: Add Chickpeas and Olive Oil

1. Add chickpeas, cumin, salt, and olive oil.

2. Blend for 1–2 minutes, adding cold water slowly until smooth and fluffy.

✅ Step 4: Taste & Adjust

Add more lemon or salt to your preference. The flavor should be tangy, nutty, and slightly garlicky.

✅ Step 5: Serve

1. Spoon hummus into a shallow bowl.

2. Use a spoon to create a swirl pattern on top.

3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle paprika or sumac.

4. Garnish with parsley and a few whole chickpeas.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

• 🫓 Warm pita or flatbread

• 🥕 Fresh veggies (carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers)

• 🥗 As a base for Mediterranean bowls or wraps

💚 Health & Nutrition Benefits

✅ Healthy Tips

1. 🌿 Use ice-cold water while blending for extra creamy texture.

2. 🧄 Roast garlic before blending for a milder, sweeter flavor.

3. 🧊 Store in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container.

4. 🍅 Add roasted red peppers or herbs for a flavor twist!

Would you like to continue to the next Mediterranean recipe?
Here are a few delicious options — which one should I show next (with full details and pictures)? 👇