🧆 Green Olive and Herb Hummus
✨ Description:
This vibrant twist on classic hummus blends briny green olives, fresh herbs, and creamy chickpeas into a zesty, savory dip. The flavor is rich, slightly tangy, and wonderfully herby—perfect for spreading on toast, scooping with veggies, or elevating your mezze platter.
🛒 Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- ¾ cup green olives, pitted (Castelvetrano or Manzanilla work great)
- 2 tbsp tahini
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1–2 garlic cloves, peeled
- 2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1–2 tbsp cold water to thin, if needed
👩🍳 Instructions:
- Prepare the ingredients:
Drain and rinse chickpeas. Pit the olives if needed. Peel garlic. - Blend base:
In a food processor, combine chickpeas, olives, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. Process until a coarse paste forms. - Add herbs and adjust texture:
Add parsley or cilantro and pulse again until well incorporated. If the hummus is too thick, blend in 1–2 tbsp cold water until smooth and creamy. - Season:
Taste and season with salt and pepper. You may need less salt depending on the saltiness of the olives. - Serve:
Spoon into a bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and garnish with chopped olives, herbs, or a sprinkle of paprika.
🍽️ Servings:
Makes about 1¾ to 2 cups
Serves: 6–8 as a dip or appetizer
💡 Tips:
- Use good-quality green olives for the best flavor.
- For a creamier texture, remove chickpea skins before blending (optional but effective).
- Swap parsley for cilantro (or vice versa), or use a mix!
- Want more tang? Add a splash of olive brine.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
🔍 Nutritional Information (Per ¼ cup serving, approx.):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 110 |
| Protein | 3.5 g |
| Carbs | 9 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 2.5 g |
| Sugars | <1 g |
| Sodium | ~230 mg* |
*May vary depending on olives used.
🥗 Health Benefits:
- Chickpeas: Great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and iron.
- Olives: Rich in healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamin E.
- Tahini: Provides calcium, magnesium, and healthy fats.
- Herbs & Lemon: Boost vitamin C, freshness, and digestion.
- Garlic: Natural anti-inflammatory and immune booster.
❓ Q&A:
Q: Can I make this hummus without tahini?
A: Yes! You can sub with plain Greek yogurt, avocado, or a drizzle more olive oil. The flavor will change but still be delicious.
Q: Is this hummus vegan and gluten-free?
A: Yes, it’s naturally both vegan and gluten-free!
Q: Can I freeze this hummus?
A: Absolutely. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and stir well before serving.
Q: Can I use other types of olives?
A: Yes, but green olives add a distinctive briny flavor. Kalamata will give a different, richer taste if substituted.