If you’re a fan of rich, savory dips but prefer to skip the tahini, this Olive Hummus Recipe Without Tahini Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Packed with the briny punch of kalamata and green olives, combined with creamy chickpeas and fragrant garlic, it delivers bold Mediterranean flavors in every bite. This hummus is wonderfully smooth, delightfully tangy from fresh lemon juice, and perfectly balanced with a hint of smoked paprika and crushed red pepper flakes. Whether you’re craving a snack or planning an appetizer for guests, this olive hummus is effortless to whip up and sure to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Olive Hummus Recipe Without Tahini Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting its vibrant notes, luscious creaminess, and captivating texture. Let’s take a closer look at these essential building blocks that transform everyday pantry staples into an irresistible dip.
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives: These dark, tangy olives bring an intense, fruity depth and vibrant color to the hummus.
- 1/2 cup green olives with pimento: Mild and slightly sweet, they add balance and a pop of cheerful red from the pimentos.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and a silky finish, enhancing the olive flavor throughout.
- 2 14-ounce cans chickpeas: The creamy foundation of the hummus, providing protein and a luscious body.
- 3 cloves garlic: For that punch of aromatic zest that wakes up every other ingredient.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a subtle smoky warmth that gives this hummus a unique twist.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: A gentle kick of heat that balances the briny and smoky elements perfectly.
- 1 lemon (juiced): Adds a bright, fresh citrus sparkle, lifting the entire flavor profile beautifully.
How to Make Olive Hummus Recipe Without Tahini Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients and add them to a food processor or a powerful high-speed blender. Don’t forget to include a tablespoon of the reserved chickpea canning liquid to help create the perfect creamy texture right from the start.
Step 2: Blend to Perfection
Begin pulsing the mixture on low speed to break things down, then gradually increase the speed to achieve that luxuriously smooth consistency everyone loves in a hummus. If the blend feels too thick or chunky, add a little more of the chickpea liquid, one tablespoon at a time, until everything comes together in a creamy dream.
Step 3: Garnish and Serve
Once your olive hummus is silky and smooth, transfer it to a serving bowl. Drizzle with a bit more extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle chopped kalamata and green olives on top for a beautiful presentation and an extra burst of olive flavor.
How to Serve Olive Hummus Recipe Without Tahini Recipe
Garnishes
Adding the right garnishes really elevates this hummus. Freshly chopped olives provide texture and visual appeal, while a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil adds shine and richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika or some finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Side Dishes
This olive hummus pairs beautifully with crispy crudités like carrots, cucumber slices, or bell peppers. It’s also delightful alongside warm pita bread or crunchy pita chips, making it perfect as a snack or a starter on your Mediterranean spread. For a light meal, try it as a creamy spread on sandwiches or wraps to add complexity and moisture.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to WOW at your next gathering? Serve the Olive Hummus Recipe Without Tahini Recipe in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a rustic touch. You can also create a vibrant mezze platter by surrounding the hummus with a rainbow of roasted veggies, nuts, and cheese. This versatile dip lends itself well to all sorts of creative displays, so let your imagination lead the way!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover olive hummus keeps wonderfully in an airtight container stored in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days, letting you enjoy that briny, garlicky goodness long after you first make it.
Freezing
If you want to keep this Olive Hummus Recipe Without Tahini Recipe handy for longer, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container. It’s best consumed within one month to enjoy its optimal taste and texture. When thawing, leave it overnight in the fridge and stir before serving.
Reheating
This hummus is typically enjoyed cold or at room temperature. However, if you prefer it slightly warmed, gently heat in a microwave on low power for 20-30 seconds, stirring halfway through to maintain its creamy consistency and avoid drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of olives in this recipe?
Absolutely! While kalamata and green olives with pimento provide a classic flavor profile, you can experiment with other olives like Castelvetrano or black olives for different nuances. Just make sure to pit them beforehand.
Why omit tahini from this traditional hummus recipe?
Tahini has a very distinct flavor and texture that not everyone enjoys. This olive hummus skips it entirely, letting the olives and other ingredients shine while still delivering a creamy, satisfying dip perfect for those who prefer or need to avoid tahini.
What can I use if I don’t have canned chickpea liquid?
If you don’t have the canning liquid, you can substitute it with cold water or a bit of fresh lemon juice to help achieve the right consistency. Just add slowly so your hummus doesn’t get too thin.
Is this almond-free and vegan?
Yes, this Olive Hummus Recipe Without Tahini Recipe is completely vegan and free from nuts, making it suitable for various dietary restrictions and preferences.
Can I make this hummus spicier?
Definitely! Feel free to increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to kick up the heat. Just adjust gradually to suit your spice tolerance.
Final Thoughts
This Olive Hummus Recipe Without Tahini Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a little Mediterranean escape anytime you dip your spoon or bread into it. It’s easy to make, packed with wonderful flavors, and incredibly versatile for snacking or entertaining. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how delicious hummus can be without tahini!
PrintOlive Hummus Recipe Without Tahini Recipe
This Olive Hummus Recipe Without Tahini is a creamy, flavorful twist on classic hummus using kalamata and green olives for a briny, savory depth. Perfect as a party dip or sandwich spread, it combines chickpeas, olive oil, garlic, and smoked paprika for a smooth and tangy delight without the use of tahini. Simple and quick to make in a food processor, it’s a vibrant, healthy appetizer or snack option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dip
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Olive Hummus Ingredients
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives (pitted, plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup green olives with pimento (pitted, plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 (14 ounce) cans chickpeas (save the canning liquid)
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 lemon (juiced)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Pit the kalamata and green olives, reserving some for garnish. Drain the chickpeas but keep the canning liquid aside for later use.
- Combine Ingredients: Add kalamata olives, green olives, chickpeas, garlic cloves, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil into a food processor or high-speed blender. Also add 1 tablespoon of the reserved chickpea liquid to start.
- Blend to Smooth: Pulse the processor on low initially, then increase speed until the mixture achieves a smooth and creamy consistency. If the hummus is too thick, add additional tablespoon(s) of chickpea liquid gradually until desired creaminess is reached.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, and sprinkle with chopped olives reserved earlier. Serve with crudités, pita chips, or use as a spread for sandwiches and wraps.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of chickpea liquid to control the hummus consistency to your preference.
- For a spicier hummus, increase the crushed red pepper flakes.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Keep the extra olives for garnish to add visual appeal and a burst of flavor.
- This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free.
