This Roasted Red Pepper Hummus recipe isn’t just about food; it’s a journey back to cherished childhood memories. I vividly recall gathering around the kitchen table, the air filled with laughter and lively conversations, while sharing homemade hummus with the people I hold dearest. This tradition, steeped in Lebanese culture from my Mom’s side of the family, taught me the profound connection between food, family, and heritage.

When asked about the Lebanese customs that shaped my upbringing, I always emphasize cooking and the central role of food. It was, and still is, a cornerstone of our family life. And when you speak of Lebanese cuisine, it’s impossible not to talk about hummus – a staple that embodies the warmth, generosity, and vibrant flavors of the Middle East.

While store-bought options are convenient, we consistently prefer homemade hummus. The ability to control every ingredient allows us to tailor the flavor and consistency to perfection, ensuring a fresh, wholesome, and deeply satisfying dip every time. This control also means we can avoid unwanted preservatives and adjust for any dietary preferences, making it a healthier choice for everyone at the table.

Hummus transcends its role as a simple dip in our household. It’s our absolute favorite for any occasion: a quick, healthy snack, an inviting appetizer to kick off a meal, a delightful side dish to complement grilled meats, or even a robust main meal when paired with grilled chicken, savory lamb, or traditional kibbeh. Its creamy texture also makes it an excellent spread for sandwiches, adding a layer of rich flavor and satisfying protein.

If you’re a hummus enthusiast, you’ll definitely want to explore more of our recipes. Be sure to try my Easy Beet Hummus for a vibrant twist, our classic Easy Lebanese Hummus, the impressive Hummus Platter for entertaining, and the zesty Spicy Hummus for those who crave a kick.

Storage & Meal Prep Tips for Your Hummus

Homemade hummus is fantastic for meal prepping and can be enjoyed for days after preparation. Proper storage ensures its freshness and flavor last as long as possible.

Refrigerating Hummus:

You can store freshly made hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 to 7 days. To help preserve its freshness and prevent it from drying out, it’s a great idea to drizzle a small amount of extra virgin olive oil over the surface of the hummus before sealing the container. This creates a protective barrier that keeps the hummus moist and flavorful.

Freezing Hummus for Longer Storage:

Yes, you absolutely can freeze hummus! This is perfect for making larger batches or extending its shelf life. Transfer the hummus to an airtight, freezer-safe container, leaving about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the hummus overnight in the refrigerator. Before serving, give it a good stir, as the texture might separate slightly during the thawing process. If it seems a bit thick, simply add a splash of cold water or a little more lemon juice and stir until it returns to its creamy consistency.

Tips for Maximum Freshness:

• Always use a clean spoon each time you scoop hummus to prevent contamination.
• Store in the coldest part of your refrigerator.
• If the top layer looks discolored after a few days, simply scrape it off, and the hummus underneath should still be good.

Achieving that silky-smooth texture is key to exceptional hummus. The most impactful tip is to remove the skins from the chickpeas. You can do this by rubbing them gently between a kitchen towel, or for canned chickpeas, simmer them in water with a small pinch of baking soda for 10-15 minutes – this softens them considerably and makes the skins slip off easily. Another secret for an ultra-light and smooth hummus is to drizzle in small amounts of ice water or reserved chickpea liquid (aquafaba) while the food processor is running. Finally, don’t rush the blending process; let your food processor or high-speed blender run for several minutes (up to 5 minutes) to fully emulsify all the ingredients and break down the chickpeas.

While it’s possible to make a chickpea dip without tahini, it won’t have the traditional, authentic flavor and characteristic richness of true hummus. Tahini is essential for that signature nutty taste and creamy consistency. However, if you have a sesame allergy or simply don’t have tahini on hand, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter dip, or use smooth nut butters like almond butter or cashew butter for a similar fatty richness, though the flavor profile will differ significantly.

If your hummus is thicker than you’d like, don’t worry – it’s an easy fix! While blending, gradually add more liquid until you reach your desired consistency. You can use extra lemon juice for added brightness, cold water for thinning without altering flavor, or a bit more olive oil for extra richness. Slowly adding the reserved chickpea liquid (aquafaba) is also an excellent way to thin it out while adding flavor and body.

Absolutely! Using dried chickpeas often results in an even creamier and more flavorful hummus, as you have more control over their cooking. To use dried chickpeas, soak them overnight in plenty of water. The next day, drain and rinse them, then simmer them in fresh water with a pinch of baking soda until they are very tender (about 1.5-2 hours). Ensure they are soft enough to easily mash between your fingers before proceeding with the recipe. This extra effort is well worth it for the superior texture and taste.

Yes, this recipe for Roasted Red Pepper Hummus is naturally both vegan and gluten-free. All the ingredients – chickpeas, roasted red peppers, lemon, tahini, garlic, and olive oil – are plant-based and do not contain gluten. This makes it a fantastic healthy option suitable for a wide range of dietary needs and preferences, perfect for sharing with friends and family.