This roasted cauliflower with tahini recipe will give you mildly spiced cauliflower that is perfectly roasted to bring out its flavors. The tahini sauce is so delicious that you will want to put it on everything! I have always struggled to make caulifl…
This roasted cauliflower with tahini recipe will give you mildly spiced cauliflower that is perfectly roasted to bring out its flavors. The tahini sauce is so delicious that you will want to put it on everything! I have always struggled to make cauliflower that is not too soft or too hard. But this recipe has...
This lemon herb tahini is a delicious no-cook sauce that pairs with just about everything! The best part is you can blend it up in just 5 minutes for a nutty, tangy, and green lemon herb tahini sauce. The struggle to find a sauce that is both healthy a…
This lemon herb tahini is a delicious no-cook sauce that pairs with just about everything! The best part is you can blend it up in just 5 minutes for a nutty, tangy, and green lemon herb tahini sauce. The struggle to find a sauce that is both healthy and tasty is real. But this lemon...
My family is a hummus family, through and through. My husband, stepdaughter, and I love to make White Bean Hummus, cut up a ton of veggies, and put on a big spread for a healthy snack! Now, my 3 year old daughter has joined the gang, and she’s crazy about this hummus, too. It’s a crowd-pleaser and works out to be much cheaper than store-bought hummus! You only need 5 ingredients and a food processor to make this delicious, protein-packed dip. I’m sure your family will love it just as much as mine does!
What is White Bean Hummus?
We’ve been on a white bean kick recently here at Budget Bytes (Tuscan white bean stuffed tomatoes or chicken sausage white bean skillet, anyone?!), so it only makes sense that I share my favorite white bean hummus recipe with y’all. It’s just as delicious as traditional chickpea hummus but is made with creamy white beans instead. I add canned cannellini beans, toasted garlic, lemon juice, tahini, and olive oil to a food processor and blend until smooth—that’s it!
Side note: I love following Dr. Joel Fuhrman, and one of his teachings has always stuck with me: G-BOMBS! Fit in greens, beans, onions, mushrooms, berries, and seeds daily, and you’re on the road to excellent health. This easy white bean hummus recipe combines a few of those requirements, so it’s always in my refrigerator as an easy-to-grab snack!
Ingredients for White Bean Hummus
Aside from the cannellini beans, this recipe stays true to the classic ingredients found in regular hummus. Here’s what you’ll need to make this homemade white bean hummus recipe:
Cannellini Beans: Most of us probably have a few tins of this creamy white bean in the pantry, making it a great option for a last-minute dip! Drain and rinse the beans before using. Butter beans, navy, and Great Northern beans could also work.
Tahini: This is a paste made from ground sesame seeds. It’s one of the main ingredients in most hummus recipes and adds a nutty, slightly bitter flavor. You can usually find it in the nut butter or international aisle of your grocery store.
Garlic: Crush your garlic cloves to release all that delicious flavor. We’ll toast them in a skillet before blending to mellow out the sharpness.
Olive Oil: Use it to cook the garlic and to add richness to the hummus.
Lemon Juice: Adds a bright acidity that balances out the creaminess of the beans and tahini.
Water: Use some cold water to thin out the hummus to your desired consistency.
Seasonings: Salt and black pepper enhance the flavors of this white bean hummus.
Serving Suggestions
This white bean dip is the best snack to take on the go! I dip everything from carrots and celery to crackers and pita bread in it. If you’re serving this hummus at a party, try drizzling some extra olive oil, fresh herbs, and crushed red pepper on top (as I did in these photos!). Here are a few more ideas for serving this creamy cannellini bean hummus:
This recipe for white bean hummus makes about 4 cups, so there’s a good chance you’ll have leftovers. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top of the hummus before storing to help keep it fresher for longer, but this is optional.
Gather all your ingredients and set aside until time to use.
In a small frying pan, combine smashed garlic cloves and olive oil. Cook on medium low heat to gently cook the garlic, swirling it in the pan occasionally to infuse the olive oil. After about 4 minutes or when the garlic has some light color on it, remove pan from heat.
In a food processor, combine cannellini beans, tahini, olive oil and garlic from the frying pan, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Process until smooth, streaming in cold water as-needed to help blend and smoothen the hummus.
Adjust salt and pepper to your liking and serve with fresh vegetables, toasted pita or crackers. Enjoy!
how to make White Bean Hummus – step by step photos
Gather all your ingredients and set aside until time to use.
In a small frying pan, combine 3 smashed garlic cloves and 3 Tbsp olive oil. Cook on medium low heat to gently cook the garlic, swirling it in the pan occasionally to infuse the olive oil.
After about 4 minutes or when the garlic has some light color on it, remove pan from heat.
In a food processor, combine 2 cans cannellini beans, ½ cup tahini, the olive oil and garlic from the frying pan, 4 Tbsp lemon juice, ¼ tsp salt and 1 tsp black pepper.
Process until smooth, streaming in ¼ cup cold water as-needed to help blend and smoothen the hummus.
Adjust salt and pepper to your liking and serve with fresh vegetables, toasted pita or crackers. Enjoy!
Who knew making hummus at home could be so simple? This creamy white bean hummus is the perfect snack or appetizer for the whole family!
I love roasted cauliflower and chickpeas together. My roasted cauliflower chickpea tacos are a blog favorite and this roasted cauliflower chickpea salad is so flavorful. I also love making these Roasted Cauliflower Chickpea Wraps. The wraps have bold f…
I love roasted cauliflower and chickpeas together. My roasted cauliflower chickpea tacos are a blog favorite and this roasted cauliflower chickpea salad is so flavorful. I also love making these Roasted Cauliflower Chickpea Wraps. The wraps have bold flavors, textures, and are super satisfying. The cauliflower and chickpeas are tossed in harissa paste to bring…
Nut-free friends, this one’s for you! We’re no strangers to energy bites (and cake bites… and cookie bites…), but a nut-free version of these snackable treats was long overdue!
With dates, tahini, pumpkin seeds, and hemp seeds, these tasty snacks…
Nut-free friends, this one’s for you! We’re no strangers to energy bites (and cake bites… and cookie bites…), but a nut-free version of these snackable treats was long overdue!
With dates, tahini, pumpkin seeds, and hemp seeds, these tasty snacks are nutrient-packed and SO easy to make! They’re perfect for lunch boxes, party platters, or just grabbing out of the refrigerator when you need a treat.
This miso soba noodles recipe combines an easy, no-cook spicy tahini miso sauce with soba noodles, crispy tofu bites, and roasted asparagus for a delicious vegan family meal. I love a good sauce, and this spicy tahini miso sauce is one of my favorites….
This miso soba noodles recipe combines an easy, no-cook spicy tahini miso sauce with soba noodles, crispy tofu bites, and roasted asparagus for a delicious vegan family meal. I love a good sauce, and this spicy tahini miso sauce is one of my favorites. It is so versatile, and I have used it in my...
This harissa tahini pasta takes only 20 minutes to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is packed with flavors. The tahini creates a rich and creamy sauce, while the harissa adds a spicy kick. Serve it with some roasted asparagus and sauté spin…
This harissa tahini pasta takes only 20 minutes to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is packed with flavors. The tahini creates a rich and creamy sauce, while the harissa adds a spicy kick. Serve it with some roasted asparagus and sauté spinach for a quick and delicious meal. It is not always easy to find...
This Mediterranean bowl is bursting with fresh ingredients! Roasted vegetables, couscous and lemon tahini sauce make a satisfying meal. Why…
This Mediterranean bowl is bursting with fresh ingredients! Roasted vegetables, couscous and lemon tahini sauce make a satisfying meal.
Why we love this recipe
Looking for fresh and healthy dinner ideas? Try this Mediterranean bowl, bursting with colorful veggies! It’s a simple “meal in a bowl” that stars spiced roasted vegetables, seasoned with an irresistible mix of cumin, coriander, garlic and a hint of cinnamon.
Add to that quinoa or couscous, fresh cucumber and tomato, and top it all off with a creamy lemon tahini sauce. The flavor and texture contrasts make it so satisfying, and it’s a tried and true easy dinner idea in our house!
Ingredients in this Mediterranean bowl
A Mediterranean bowl can be made in a variety of ways: this one is simply a bowl meal inspired by flavors of the Mediterranean. It features four main components: roasted vegetables, fresh vegetables, whole grain, and a tahini dressing.
It’s so full of flavor, you’ll forget it’s a pile of good-for-you ingredients (plus, it’s vegan and fits the Daniel Fast with one modification). Of course, there are endless variations here and you can riff on the ideas easily. Here’s what you’ll need to make the recipe as written:
Canned chickpeas: Chickpeas provide plant-based protein for this colorful bowl.
Sweet potatoes, red bell pepper, red onion, and olive oil: Mix up these veggies and make them into a mix of roasted vegetables.
Cumin, paprika, garlic powder, coriander, cinnamon, and salt: This Mediterranean-inspired spice mix adds depth to the roasted vegetables.
Quinoa or couscous (or other grain): Add any whole grain you like to this hearty bowl.
Cherry tomatoesand English cucumber: These fresh vegetables add tang and crunch.
Salad greens: We used a mix of spring greens, but baby arugula or other greens also work.
You can put almost anything you like in this Mediterranean bowl: just make sure you make the lemon tahini dressing! Tahini is a Middle Eastern condiment that’s a paste made of toasted sesame seeds. It’s an extremely versatile ingredient you can use to make hummus, sauces and even desserts. For the lemon tahini sauce, you’ll simply combine it with fresh lemon juice, olive oil, honey or sugar (to balance the acidity), and garlic.
Where to find tahini? You can find it in your local grocery store, many times in the international aisle. It is sometimes also located near the peanut butter and other nut butters.
Try a squeeze bottle! Tahini is notoriously hard to measure out, but some brands have convenient squeeze bottles now that make thing easy.
Use quinoa, couscous, or another grain
This Mediterranean bowl works with any type of whole grain! Most often we like to pick a hearty, gluten-free whole grain like rice or quinoa. But when we have the need for speed, we like using couscous or orzo because they’re so quick. Keep in mind that these are both actually pasta (and not suitable for a gluten-free diet). Here are a few grains that would be perfect in this Mediterranean bowl:
The bowl meal concept is ripe for variations and add-ins, and this Mediterranean bowl is a very loose idea. Use it as a template for adding any Mediterranean-style ingredients you like! It’s similar to our Hummus Bowls, which you can use for more inspiration. Here are a few other ingredients that would fit perfectly into this tasty bowl:
This recipe fits the Mediterranean diet, a style of eating that features fresh vegetables, healthy fats and whole grains. It’s a vegan recipe and also Daniel Fast-approved, if you omit the honey from the lemon tahini dressing. Here are a few more Mediterranean-style recipes you might enjoy:
This Mediterranean bowl recipe is vegetarian, vegan, plant-based, dairy-free and gluten-free.
Frequently asked questions
Can I prepare the roasted vegetables ahead of time?
Absolutely! Roasted vegetables can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave before assembling your bowls.
Can I use a different type of grain in this recipe?
Leftover roasted vegetables can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 days. Leftover lemon tahini sauce can be stored up to 2 weeks refrigerated.
Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, sweet potatoes, red pepper and red onion. Toss with the olive oil and 1 ½ teaspoons of the kosher salt. Then toss with the cumin, paprika, garlic powder, coriander, and cinnamon.
Divide the vegetables evenly between the two baking sheets and spread in an even layer. Roast for 20 minutes, then remove from the oven and stir. Roast another 5 to 10 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Meanwhile, cook the quinoa (or make Easy Couscous): Rinse the quinoa in cold water using a fine mesh strainer, then drain it and shake out the remaining water. Place it in a saucepan with 1 ¾ cups water and ¼ teaspoon kosher salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low where the water is just bubbling. Cover the pot and simmer where the water is just bubbling for about 15 to 18 minutes, until the water has been completely absorbed. Check by pulling back the quinoa with a fork to see if water remains. Turn off the heat and let sit with the lid on to steam for 5 minutes, then fluff the quinoa with a fork.
Make the Lemon Tahini Dressing (store leftovers refrigerated for up to 2 weeks or make in advance).
To serve, place the roasted vegetables over the couscous and salad greens in shallow bowls. Add piles of fresh cucumbers and tomatoes. Drizzle with the dressing and serve. Store leftover roasted vegetables for up to 3 days refrigerated.
Make our favorite hummus recipe to whip up this creamy, flavorful dip at home! Discover how to make this Middle…
Make our favorite hummus recipe to whip up this creamy, flavorful dip at home! Discover how to make this Middle Eastern dip, including the classic hummus ingredients, ways to serve it, our special tricks, and more.
Why we love this recipe
A big pile of creamy, savory, garlicky hummus is essential when it comes to snacking, in our opinion! Hummus is basically it’s own food group, these days. But Alex and I have found store-bought hummus can be expensive and not taste so great.
So when we have time, we love to whip up a batch of chickpea dip at home! This our family favorite hummus recipe that has stood the test of time. It’s simple to make and has pure, lemony garlicky flavor. As two cookbook authors, we’ve tested this recipe to perfection: it’s our go-to for snacks, lunches, and parties. Give it a try: we hope you love it as much as we do!
Hummus ingredients
The key ingredients for any hummus recipe is chickpeas and tahini, a paste made from sesame seeds. From there, hummus can be made with any number of ingredients.
The classic flavorings are garlic, lemon juice, and salt. For our hummus recipe, we like adding in cumin to bring in additional savory notes, but it’s optional. Some hummus recipes have olive oil and some do not. We’ve found this recipe tastes great without it, so our recipe doesn’t require this ingredient.
In addition to the ingredients listed above, this hummus recipe uses aquafaba, the liquid form the chickpea can, to make it creamy. This is our trick to the best fluffy, creamy hummus! You don’t have to buy anything extra, so you technically need only 5 hummus ingredients (without the optional cumin!).
Tips for this hummus recipe
If you’ve got 5 minutes and a food processor, this recipe tastes great and is potentially cheaper than many purchased brands. Plus, it’s also fun to whip up knowing that you made it with your bare hands. Here are a few tricks:
Use a food processor. A food processor makes the best hummus because it’s too thick to make in a blender..
Use aquafaba to make a creamy texture. The thick liquid from the chickpea is called aquafaba (you can also use it as a vegan replacement for eggs in some recipes). Here, it gives the hummus a creamy, smooth body.
Blend the garlic with the lemon juice first. This helps to mellow the garlic flavor a bit.
Hummus without tahini
Don’t have tahini? No problem! We’ve got a special variation just for you. This Hummus without Tahini is delicious spin with a secret ingredient in place of tahini.
Variations on hummus recipes
Check out our classic homemade hummus recipe below! Or try one of the recipes below:
There are so many ways to eat this hummus recipe! Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Veggie dip with carrots, celery, cucumber slices, bell pepper, radishes, snap or snow peas, broccoli, and more
Dip for bread or chips like pita bread, pita chips, flatbread, pretzel chips, bagel chips, crackers, or crostini
Layered dip like Loaded Hummus Dip, topped with veggies and feta cheese
Bowl meals like this quick Hummus Bowl, served in a bowl with veggies, olives, and rice, orzo or couscous
Sandwiches like this Hummus Sandwich, spread on bread and layered with vegetables
Hummus roll ups or wraps, spread inside a sandwich wrap instead of mayo
Dietary notes
This hummus recipe is vegetarian, vegan, plant-based, gluten-free, and dairy-free.
Frequently asked questions
Can you freeze hummus?
Yes, you can. Simply freeze in an airtight container, leaving room for the hummus to expand (and drizzle a little olive oil on top). Here’s How to Freeze Hummus.
Is hummus gluten free? Is hummus vegan? Is hummus keto?
Yes, homemade hummus is gluten free and vegan.
No, hummus is not keto friendly.
How many calories in hummus?
A serving of ¼ cup of hummus is approximately 160 calories.
Does hummus have to be refrigerated?
Yes, store hummus in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
How long does hummus last? Does hummus go bad?
Hummus lasts for up to 5 days refrigerated. Hummus does go bad; it can become moldy if stored longer than 5 days.
Does hummus have protein?
Yes, hummus is a great source of plant-based protein! A ¼ cup serving of hummus has 7 grams of protein or 14% of your daily protein intake.
Where is hummus in the grocery store?
It’s different in every grocery store, but hummus is in the refrigerated section, usually near the produce.
Peel the garlic. Drain the chickpeas into a liquid measuring cup. Juice the lemon.
Add the garlic and lemon juice to the bowl of a food processor and process until finely chopped. Add the tahini, kosher salt, and 4 tablespoons liquid from the chickpea can (aquafaba). Puree for 30 to 1 minute, then scrape down the bowl.
Add the chickpeas, cumin and salt and blend again, adding 1 to 2 tablespoons more aquafaba until it becomes smooth. Puree for 1 to 2 minutes to come to a creamy consistency.
Top the hummus a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Serve with veggies, pita bread, or pita chips. Store refrigerated for 5 days.
Make this cilantro lime dressing recipe the next time you prepare a Mexican meal. It’s bright, sunny and fresh! This dressing is boldly flavored with fresh lime,…
Make this cilantro lime dressing recipe the next time you prepare a Mexican meal. It’s bright, sunny and fresh! This dressing is boldly flavored with fresh lime, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, honey, cumin and Dijon mustard. You can make it creamy or spicy if you wish.
Drizzle this dressing over crisp greens with sliced avocado and toasted pepitas for a perfectly simple side salad. You’ll find a longer list of salad toppings to choose from below.
I improvised this dressing to make a green salad with leftovers from my Fajita Veggie & Halloumi Bowls, and I loved it so much that I wanted to share it with you. It’s almost as versatile as my favorite Lemon Vinaigrette and suits some flavors even better.
This dressing comes together quickly in the food processor and keeps in the refrigerator for up to one week. Sometimes having a vibrant sauce on hand makes all the difference!