This cauliflower hummus is a fun twist on the classic. It’s creamy, tasty, and packed with flavor while being a bit lighter!
You can enjoy it with crunchy veggies or pita chips—perfect for sharing (or not!). Honestly, I can snack on this all day without feeling guilty! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: Fresh cauliflower is the star here! If you’re short on cauliflower, try using steamed broccoli instead for a similar texture and flavor.
Tahini: This sesame paste adds creaminess and richness. If you need a nut-free version, sunflower seed butter works well. You could even blend in some Greek yogurt for a lighter touch!
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brings brightness. In a pinch, bottled lemon juice is okay, but fresh is always best for a vibrant flavor!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for depth. If you dislike raw garlic, roast it first for a milder taste or use garlic powder as a substitute (though it won’t be as strong).
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness. You can swap it for avocado oil or another light oil if you prefer.
How Do I Get My Hummus Extra Creamy?
A big part of making creamy hummus is how you blend it! Here’s how to get the perfect consistency:
- Roast the cauliflower until it’s tender; this enhances the flavors.
- In the food processor, blend the roasted cauliflower with tahini and lemon juice first. This helps break down the cauliflower.
- If it’s too thick, add cold water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired smoothness.
- Scrape down the sides regularly to ensure everything gets blended evenly.
With these tips, your hummus will be beautifully creamy every time!
How to Make Delicious Cauliflower Hummus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Hummus:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, chopped into florets (about 4 cups)
- 3 tablespoons tahini
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika, plus more for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Mixed veggie sticks (cucumber, carrot) for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cauliflower hummus recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook the cauliflower. In total, you’re looking at around 35 minutes to get this delicious dip ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Cauliflower:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a dash of paprika. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the cauliflower is tender and slightly golden. This roasting will bring out the nutty flavor of the cauliflower!
2. Prepare for Blending:
If you’d like, set aside a handful of the roasted cauliflower to use as a garnish later. Then, in a food processor, add the remaining roasted cauliflower along with the tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, 1 tablespoon olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and a bit of salt.
3. Blend Until Smooth:
Blend all the ingredients in the food processor until you achieve a smooth and creamy texture. If the hummus is a bit thick, feel free to add 1-2 tablespoons of cold water until it reaches your desired consistency. Remember to stop and scrape down the sides occasionally to get everything blended perfectly!
4. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Once blended, give your hummus a taste! You can add more salt, lemon juice, or cumin to suit your personal preference. This is your chance to make it just right!
5. Serve & Enjoy:
Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Create a little well in the center and drizzle some extra olive oil in there. Top with the reserved roasted cauliflower, a sprinkle of paprika, and chopped fresh parsley for a pretty finish. Serve with veggie sticks like cucumber and carrots or pita chips for dipping. It’s perfect for snacking or as an appetizer!
Enjoy your light, flavorful cauliflower hummus! It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just ensure to thaw and drain the frozen cauliflower before roasting to avoid excess moisture. You may need to adjust the roasting time a bit since frozen cauliflower may take less time to roast compared to fresh.
What Can I Substitute for Tahini?
If you don’t have tahini, you can use sunflower seed butter for a nut-free alternative, or even Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that this will slightly change the flavor and texture.
How Long Will Leftover Hummus Last?
Store any leftover cauliflower hummus in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If it thickens in the fridge, simply add a touch of olive oil or water and stir to restore the creamy texture!
Can I Add Other Flavors to the Hummus?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your hummus by adding roasted red peppers, olives, or even various spices like chili powder or lemon zest for an extra kick. Experiment and find your favorite combination!
