Cauliflower hummus is a tasty and healthy twist on traditional hummus! Made from roasted cauliflower, this creamy dip is packed with flavor and is super easy to whip up.
It’s great for snacking with veggies or pita chips. I love how my friends are always surprised it’s made from cauliflower. Who knew being healthy could taste this good? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: Fresh cauliflower is best for making a creamy dip. If you’re short on cauliflower, you could use frozen cauliflower; just make sure it’s thawed and well-drained for the best texture.
Tahini: This sesame paste adds richness and depth. If you have a sesame allergy, feel free to substitute with sunflower seed butter or even Greek yogurt for a creamier texture.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a punch of flavor. If you prefer a mellower taste, roasted garlic can be a great alternative, adding sweetness to your hummus.
Lemon juice: Fresh juice is always better! If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice will work, but you might need to adjust to taste since the flavor can be less vibrant.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a nice touch. If you don’t have it, regular paprika is fine, or you can experiment with cayenne for heat. Some people like to add a pinch of cinnamon for an extra flavor kick!
How Can I Make the Perfectly Creamy Hummus?
The key to creamy cauliflower hummus is all about blending! Here are the steps to get it just right:
- Roast the cauliflower until it’s golden and tender; this enhances the flavor.
- When blending, start with the roasted cauliflower, then add in your other ingredients. Allow your food processor to run for a while. The longer you blend, the creamier it will get.
- If the mixture is too thick, add a bit of water or more olive oil, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Lastly, taste and adjust seasoning. This is your hummus, so make it perfect for your palate!
These simple tips will help you nail that creamy texture and rich taste. Happy blending!
Cauliflower Hummus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 cloves garlic
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika, plus extra for garnish
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: cucumber sticks and lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and then about 25-30 minutes to roast the cauliflower. So, in total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes to enjoy this healthy and delicious cauliflower hummus!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will be the perfect temperature for roasting the cauliflower, giving it a lovely golden color and enhancing its natural sweetness.
2. Roast the Cauliflower:
Next, toss the cauliflower florets in a bowl with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Make sure they’re well-coated! Spread the florets out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they’re golden brown and tender.
3. Blend it Up:
Once your cauliflower is roasted and has cooled slightly, transfer the florets to a food processor. Add the tahini, garlic, fresh lemon juice, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Blend it all together until it’s smooth and creamy. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides as needed!
4. Adjust the Flavor:
Take a moment to taste your hummus. This is the time to tweak the flavors! You can add more salt, lemon juice for tang, or cumin for a little more warmth based on what you like.
5. Final Touches:
Transfer your creamy cauliflower hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle some olive oil on top and sprinkle with a little extra smoked paprika and chopped fresh parsley for a nice pop of color and flavor!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
For serving, pair your delicious cauliflower hummus with cucumber sticks and lemon wedges on the side. They are perfect for dipping. Enjoy this healthy, creamy dip as an appetizer or a snack!
This cauliflower hummus is not only beautiful but also irresistibly tasty! Happy eating!
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower! Just make sure it’s fully thawed and well-drained before roasting. This will help achieve a better texture for the hummus.
Can I Make This Hummus Without Tahini?
Absolutely! If you don’t have tahini, you can substitute it with sunflower seed butter or even a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt for creaminess. It will change the flavor a bit but still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Hummus?
Store any leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; just be sure to label the container!
What Can I Serve with Cauliflower Hummus?
This hummus pairs wonderfully with fresh veggie sticks, like cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers. You can also serve it with pita chips or crusty bread for a delightful snack!