Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dip: lentil hummus! This creamy and nutritious treat is not just delicious; it’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a fantastic option for snacking. I love how simple it is to whip up, and trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked. The lentils give it that smooth texture that you’ll want to dive into again and again. Plus, it’s a vegan delight that’s perfect for everyone! Whether you’re spreading it on pita or using it as a dip for fresh veggies, lentil hummus is a game changer. It’s quick to make and even quicker to disappear!
Ingredients List
- 1 cup cooked lentils (make sure they’re tender for the creamiest texture!)
- 2 tablespoons tahini (this adds that nutty richness we all love)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (a splash of good quality oil makes a difference)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (for that zesty brightness)
- 1 garlic clove (adjust based on how garlicky you want it!)
- Salt to taste (I like to add a pinch and taste as I go)
- Water as needed (to achieve your desired consistency, so keep it handy!)
How to Prepare Lentil Hummus
Making lentil hummus is super easy and just a few steps will have you enjoying this creamy dip in no time! First, if you haven’t already, cook your lentils until they’re nice and tender. This usually takes about 30 minutes, but it’s worth the wait! Once they’re ready, let’s get blending!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Grab your blender and toss in the cooked lentils, tahini, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and that lovely garlic clove. I like to chop the garlic a bit beforehand to really release those flavors!
- Now, blend everything together on high speed until it’s super smooth and creamy. This usually takes about 1-2 minutes. If it’s a bit too thick, don’t worry—just add water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Aim for a silky texture that’s easy to dip into!
- Once you’ve got that perfect creaminess, season your hummus with salt to taste. I recommend tasting as you go; it’s the best way to ensure it’s just right!
- And voilà! You’ve got yourself some delicious lentil hummus ready to be served!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutrition in this delightful lentil hummus! Each serving size is about 2 tablespoons and packs roughly 70 calories, 4g of fat, 3g of protein, and 7g of carbohydrates. It’s also low in sugar and completely cholesterol-free, making it a guilt-free indulgence! Keep in mind that these values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of just how wholesome this dip can be. Enjoy the goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly quick to whip up—perfect for last-minute snacks!
- Simple ingredients mean you can make it anytime you have lentils on hand.
- Flavorful and creamy, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
- Nutritious and packed with protein, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
- Versatile enough to enjoy with pita, veggies, or even on sandwiches.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your lentil hummus turns out absolutely perfect! First off, always use freshly cooked lentils; if they’re too dry or overcooked, the texture might suffer. So keep an eye on them while cooking! When blending, start with less water and add more gradually to avoid a soupy mess—trust me, it’s easier to add than take away! Taste as you go, especially when adding salt and garlic; you want it just right for your palate! And if you’re feeling adventurous, don’t hesitate to experiment with spices like cumin or paprika for an extra flavor boost. Enjoy the process!
Variations of Lentil Hummus
If you’re looking to shake things up, there are endless ways to customize your lentil hummus! For a spicy kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of sriracha—wow, it really takes it to the next level! You can also mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness. Feeling adventurous? Toss in roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet, tangy twist. And don’t forget about spices! A sprinkle of cumin or smoked paprika can add depth and warmth. The possibilities are truly endless, so let your creativity shine!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your lentil hummus is super easy! Just transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and pop it in the fridge, where it can stay fresh for about 3-5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just give it a good stir, and if it’s thickened up a bit, you can add a splash of water or olive oil to loosen it up. No need to reheat this dip unless you really want to; it’s fantastic served cold! But if you prefer it warm, just microwave it in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until it’s heated through. Enjoy every last bite!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got the perfect lentil hummus ready to go, let’s talk about how to serve it! I love pairing it with warm, fluffy pita bread—it’s a match made in heaven! You can also slice up fresh veggies like cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers for a crunchy, healthy option. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, try spreading it on a sandwich or wrap for a satisfying lunch. And don’t forget about crackers or toasted bread; they add the perfect crunch! Whatever you choose, your lentil hummus will shine bright as the star of the snack table!
For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection!
For more information on the health benefits of lentils, visit Healthline.
To explore more about vegan diets, you can check The Vegan Society.
Print
Lentil Hummus: 5 Reasons You’ll Absolutely Love This Dip
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2 cups 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A creamy and nutritious dip made from lentils.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed
Instructions
- In a blender, combine cooked lentils, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic.
- Blend until smooth.
- Add water gradually until you reach desired consistency.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Serve with pita bread or vegetables.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice for better flavor.
- Adjust garlic according to your taste.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: lentil hummus, dip, vegan recipe