Cauliflower Hummus Recipe
Introduction
This creamy cauliflower hummus is a delicious twist on the classic dip, perfect for those looking for a lighter, vegetable-forward option. Roasted cauliflower adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor, making it smooth and satisfying. It’s easy to make and works wonderfully as a snack or appetizer.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cauliflower florets (about 1 lb)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (divided)
- 1/2 cup tahini paste
- 2 cloves garlic (minced or chopped)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 3-5 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F and grease a nonstick baking sheet.
- Step 2: Toss the cauliflower florets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure each floret touches the pan.
- Step 3: Roast the cauliflower for 35 to 45 minutes, until it is browned and very soft.
- Step 4: In a blender or food processor, combine lemon juice, 2 tablespoons water, and the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil. Add the roasted cauliflower, tahini, garlic, sea salt, cumin, and paprika.
- Step 5: Puree until smooth, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides. If the hummus is too thick, add 1 to 3 more tablespoons of water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Tips & Variations
- For a smokier flavor, try roasting the cauliflower until it develops some charred edges.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Serve with fresh veggies, pita bread, or use as a spread on sandwiches.
- You can replace tahini with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
Storage
Store the cauliflower hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Before serving, stir well and add a little olive oil or water if it has thickened. It can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use raw cauliflower instead of roasted?
Raw cauliflower will give the hummus a different, less sweet flavor and a grainier texture. Roasting brings out a deeper, nuttier taste and makes the hummus creamier.
Is this hummus gluten-free?
Yes, this cauliflower hummus is naturally gluten-free, but always check your tahini label to ensure it hasn’t been cross-contaminated.
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Cauliflower Hummus Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: About 1 1/2 cups 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This creamy and flavorful Cauliflower Hummus is a healthy twist on traditional hummus, using roasted cauliflower instead of chickpeas. Blended with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and warming spices, it makes a perfect vegan and gluten-free dip or spread that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients
Roasted Cauliflower
- 4 cups Cauliflower florets (~1 lb)
- 2 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil (for roasting)
Hummus Mixture
- 1/4 cup Extra virgin olive oil (divided, 2 tbsp for roasting, 2 tbsp for blending)
- 1/2 cup Tahini paste
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced or chopped)
- 2 tbsp Lemon juice
- 1 tsp Sea salt
- 1 1/2 tsp Cumin
- 1/4 tsp Paprika
- 3–5 tbsp Water (to thin consistency)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C). Grease a nonstick baking sheet to prevent the cauliflower from sticking during roasting.
- Roast Cauliflower: Toss the cauliflower florets with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil until well coated. Spread them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring all florets make contact with the pan.
- Bake Until Tender: Roast the cauliflower in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes. Roast until the florets are browned and soft enough to fall apart easily.
- Blend Ingredients: In a powerful blender or food processor, pour the lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of water, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the roasted cauliflower, tahini, minced garlic, sea salt, cumin, and paprika. Blend until very smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
- Adjust Consistency: If the hummus is too thick, gradually add an additional 1-3 tablespoons of water, 1 tablespoon at a time, blending after each addition until your desired smoothness is achieved. Typically, about 4 tablespoons of water total are used.
Notes
- For a smokier flavor, sprinkle some extra paprika on top before serving.
- This hummus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Serve with fresh veggies, pita bread, or as a spread in sandwiches and wraps.
- If tahini is unavailable, you can substitute with peanut or almond butter for a different nutty twist.
- Use fresh garlic for best flavor; roasted garlic can also be used for a milder taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dip
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: Cauliflower hummus, roasted cauliflower dip, vegan hummus, gluten-free dip, healthy snack
