Whether you’re looking to boost your protein intake or need a simple, vegan dip that satisfies the whole family, this high-protein hummus recipe is ideal for Orthodox Christians observing fasting days. Easy to whip up, packed with plant-based protein, and flavorful, this hummus helps make fasting nutritious, simple, and enjoyable for everyone.
🥣 Why You Will Love This Recipe
This high-protein hummus recipe is not only delicious but also loaded with nutrients—offering a good balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Hummus has long been a go-to for those seeking a healthy snack, and with just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a creamy dip that even picky eaters will love. It’s versatile enough for lunch, a snack, or even as a side to main dishes. Plus, during Orthodox fasting periods, when dairy and meat are avoided, this hummus can provide essential protein and energy, making it easier to stay nourished throughout the day.
Ingredients
1 - Key Ingredients
- 2 (15½ oz.) cans chickpeas, drained (reserve liquid)
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- ¼ cup sesame tahini (well-stirred)
- 2 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
- ¼ teaspoon cumin
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons avocado oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley, for serving (optional)
- Paprika, 1 pinch for serving (optional)
2 - Variations
Elevate this classic hummus recipe into a creamy homemade protein hummus that’s not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit different tastes and textures. With just a can of chickpeas (or garbanzo beans), you’ll have a great source of protein ready to be transformed.
Here are some great ways to add variety to your hummus:
Red Pepper Hummus
Red Pepper Hummus
This version is perfect if you’re looking for a popular dip with a smoky-sweet flavor. Blend in one roasted red pepper along with the remaining ingredients for a rich, creamy texture and extra dietary fiber. Add a pinch of smoked paprika if you want a little bit of extra depth. Roasted red peppers pair well with the simple ingredients in this hummus, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Pine Nut Hummus
Pine Nut Hummus
To make your hummus a bit more indulgent, add 2 tablespoons of toasted pine nuts to the mixture. Pine nuts add a slight crunch and a rich, nutty flavor that balances perfectly with the fresh lemon juice and garlic. Garnish with extra pine nuts on top for a beautiful presentation. This is a great option for adding healthy fats and extra protein grams to this nutritious snack.
Garlic Hummus
Garlic Hummus
Boost the flavor by adding an extra clove or two of garlic for a more intense taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, roast the garlic cloves first—just bake them in a little bit of avocado oil at 400°F until golden and tender. Roasted garlic adds a smooth paste that makes this an easy hummus recipe with layers of flavor that you’ll want to make your own.
Sesame Seed Hummus
Sesame Seed Hummus
Add a bit more sesame flavor by blending in a tablespoon of ground sesame seeds or peanut butter if you’re feeling adventurous. Lightly toasting the sesame seeds beforehand will enhance the nuttiness and add to the creamy texture of this hummus dip.
Kalamata Olive Hummus
Kalamata Olive Hummus
For a Mediterranean twist, toss in ¼ cup of Kalamata olives with the rest of the ingredients. The olives add a unique briny flavor, making it a great snack with a satisfying bite. Kalamata olives turn this hummus into an ideal sandwich spread or side for a salad dressing.
These variations provide a great way to enjoy a high protein diet while offering different flavors to keep this versatile dip exciting every time.
Instructions
1 - Step by Step Instructions
Prepare the Chickpeas: Drain the chickpeas in a colander, setting aside the liquid for later use. Set a few chickpeas aside for garnish.
Blend Ingredients: In a food processor, combine chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, cumin, cayenne, salt, oil, and ⅓ cup of the reserved chickpea liquid.
Process to Perfection: Process until smooth and creamy. If the texture is too thick, add more of the reserved chickpea liquid, a little at a time, until you reach a smooth consistency.
Taste and Adjust: Taste for seasoning. Add a bit more salt, lemon, or spices if needed.
Serve: Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl, make a small well in the center with the back of a spoon, drizzle a little avocado oil, and garnish with reserved chickpeas, parsley, and paprika if desired.
2 - Cooking Tips & Serving Suggestions
- Tip for Smooth Texture: If you like ultra-creamy hummus, peel the chickpeas by pinching each one before blending. It’s an extra step but makes a difference!
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with pita bread, pita chips, or fresh veggies like celery sticks, cucumber slices, or red pepper strips. This creamy hummus is a perfect snack for fasting days.
📦 Storage Instructions
1 - Making a Batch for Later
Want to prepare hummus ahead? Double or triple the recipe and portion it into airtight containers. To freeze, pour a thin layer of avocado oil on top, cover with plastic wrap, and place the lid on tightly. It’ll last in the freezer for up to three months.
2 - Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftover hummus to an airtight container, smoothing the surface and adding a drizzle of avocado oil to prevent drying. Store in the fridge for up to 7 days. Stir before serving to revive the texture.
🥗 Side Dishes
Looking for sides to make a light, complete meal? Here are three fasting-friendly options that pair beautifully with hummus:
- Greek Salad: Fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and a sprinkle of sea salt bring out the best in hummus and make for a refreshing side.
- Roasted Veggies: Oven-roasted red peppers, zucchini, and carrots add color, flavor, and nutrition to your plate.
- Lentil Soup: A warm, hearty bowl of lentil soup is the perfect addition for chilly days and adds even more protein to your meal.
📝 Recipe Card
Easy, Healthy, and Creamy High Protein Hummus Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cans chickpeas 15½ oz., drained (reserve liquid)
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice about 2 lemons
- ¼ cup sesame tahini well-stirred
- 2 cloves garlic roughly chopped
- ¼ teaspoon cumin
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil plus more for drizzling
- 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley for serving (optional)
- 1 pinch Paprika for serving (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Chickpeas:
- Drain the chickpeas in a colander, setting aside the liquid for later use. Set a few chickpeas aside for garnish.
Blend Ingredients:
- In a food processor, combine chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, cumin, cayenne, salt, olive oil, and ⅓ cup of the reserved chickpea liquid.
Process to Perfection:
- Process until smooth and creamy. If the texture is too thick, add more of the reserved chickpea liquid, a little at a time, until you reach a smooth consistency.
Taste and Adjust:
- Taste for seasoning. Add a bit more salt, lemon, or spices to taste.
Serve:
- Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl, make a small well in the center with the back of a spoon, drizzle a little olive oil, and garnish with reserved chickpeas, parsley, and paprika if desired.
Video
Notes
- Tip for Smooth Texture: If you like ultra-creamy hummus, peel the chickpeas by pinching each one before blending. It’s an extra step but makes a difference!
- Red Pepper Hummus: This version is perfect if you’re looking for a popular dip with a smoky-sweet flavor. Blend in one roasted red pepper along with the remaining ingredients for a rich, creamy texture and extra dietary fiber. Add a pinch of smoked paprika if you want a little bit of extra depth. Roasted red peppers pair well with the simple ingredients in this hummus, making it a crowd-pleaser.
- Pine Nut Hummus: To make your hummus a bit more indulgent, add 2 tablespoons of toasted pine nuts to the mixture. Pine nuts add a slight crunch and a rich, nutty flavor that balances perfectly with the fresh lemon juice and garlic. Garnish with extra pine nuts on top for a beautiful presentation. This is a great option for adding healthy fats and extra protein grams to this nutritious snack.
- Garlic Hummus: Boost the flavor by adding an extra clove or two of garlic for a more intense taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, roast the garlic cloves first—just bake them in a little bit of avocado oil at 400°F until golden and tender. Roasted garlic adds a smooth paste that makes this an easy hummus recipe with layers of flavor that you’ll want to make your own.
- Sesame Seed Hummus: Add a bit more sesame flavor by blending in a tablespoon of ground sesame seeds or peanut butter if you’re feeling adventurous. Lightly toasting the sesame seeds beforehand will enhance the nuttiness and add to the creamy texture of this hummus dip.
- Kalamata Olive Hummus: For a Mediterranean twist, toss in ¼ cup of Kalamata olives with the rest of the ingredients. The olives add a unique briny flavor, making it a great snack with a satisfying bite. Kalamata olives turn this hummus into an ideal sandwich spread or side for a salad dressing.
Nutrition
This high-protein hummus recipe isn’t just an easy recipe—it’s a family favorite, packed with essential amino acids, healthy ingredients, and just the right amount of kick.
📋 Frequently Asked Questions
Hummus is packed with health benefits thanks to its main ingredient, chickpeas (garbanzo beans), which provide fiber, a lot of protein, and essential nutrients. It’s naturally low fat, making it ideal for healthy meals during fasting. Adding hemp seeds or even a touch of protein powder can increase the grams of protein for an even more nourishing snack or meal that aligns with fasting guidelines.
Like other legumes, chickpeas can sometimes cause gas, especially if you’re not used to high-fiber foods. If this is a concern, try starting with a small serving or using white beans or black beans as an alternative. Cooking with dry chickpeas instead of canned can also reduce this effect.
Homemade hummus is usually the healthiest option, as it allows you to control the ingredients and avoid preservatives or excess oil often found in store-bought hummus. Simply skip the olive oil and try using cold water or a small amount of sesame tahini to achieve a smooth paste without extra fat. Adding fresh herbs can boost flavor while keeping the hummus fasting-friendly.
Store-bought hummus is available at most grocery stores in various flavors, including traditional chickpea hummus, black bean hummus, and edamame hummus. Just check the ingredients to ensure they align with fasting guidelines, as some brands may include oils or other non-fasting ingredients.
Hummus originated in the Middle East and is a staple in many traditional diets across the region. This great hummus dish has become popular worldwide, loved for its simplicity and great source of protein!
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