Wholesome Lemon Basil Hummus (Print version)

A bright, creamy lemon basil hummus made with chickpeas, tahini, fresh herbs, and a splash of ice water.

# Ingredients:

For the hummus

01 - 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
02 - 1/4 cup (60 g) tahini, well stirred
03 - 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
04 - 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
05 - 1 small garlic clove, roughly chopped
06 - 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, plus more to taste
07 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
08 - 1 packed cup fresh basil leaves
09 - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
10 - 3-5 tablespoons ice water, as needed
11 - Black pepper, to taste

For serving

12 - Extra chopped basil
13 - Extra lemon zest
14 - Vegetables, pita, crackers, or warm flatbread

# Instructions:

01 - Add tahini, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, salt, cumin, and 2 tablespoons ice water to a food processor. Blend for 45-60 seconds until lighter and creamy.
02 - Add the drained chickpeas and basil leaves. Blend for 1-2 minutes, stopping once to scrape down the sides.
03 - With the processor running, drizzle in the olive oil. Add more ice water 1 tablespoon at a time until the hummus is smooth, thick, and scoopable.
04 - Taste and add more salt, lemon juice, or pepper as needed. Blend again for 20-30 seconds to smooth it out.
05 - Spoon into a shallow bowl, swirl the top, and drizzle with olive oil. Garnish with basil, lemon zest, and black pepper.

# Good to know:

01 - Best texture comes from soft chickpeas and a full blend time.
02 - Chill for 30 minutes if you want a firmer dip.
03 - Store airtight in the refrigerator for 4-5 days.