If you’re on the lookout for a vibrant, flavor-packed dip that combines a delightful crunch with creamy richness, then you absolutely must try this Crispy Roasted Cauliflower Hummus Recipe. It’s a wonderful twist on classic hummus, where the star ingredient—cauliflower—is roasted to golden perfection, adding a smoky, caramelized depth that perfectly complements the smooth blend of chickpeas and tahini. Whether you’re serving it at a party, enjoying it as a snack, or looking for a fresh spread for your sandwiches, this recipe delivers a unique balance of textures and flavors that’s impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Crispy Roasted Cauliflower Hummus Recipe shines because of its simplicity and quality ingredients. Each component plays a key role, from roasting the cauliflower for that irresistible crispness to the tahini and lemon juice that bring creaminess and brightness, creating a harmonious blend that’s both wholesome and delicious.
- Cauliflower florets: Using a small head, cut into bite-sized pieces for roasting to get that crispy texture.
- Olive oil: Divided use; some for roasting the cauliflower to enhance crispiness, the rest to enrich the hummus’s smoothness.
- Ground cumin: Adds a subtle, earthy warmth to both the roasted cauliflower and the hummus blend.
- Smoked paprika: Infuses a smoky note that perfectly complements the roasted cauliflower’s caramelized edges.
- Salt and pepper: To season and balance all the flavors beautifully.
- Chickpeas: The classic base of hummus providing creaminess and protein.
- Tahini: A rich, nutty sesame paste that gives the hummus its characteristic luscious texture.
- Garlic: Adds a robust, aromatic kick.
- Lemon juice: Brightens the dish with fresh acidity, balancing the roasted flavors.
- Water: Used to adjust the hummus’s consistency to your liking.
- Parsley, toasted pine nuts, paprika, and olive oil: For garnish, adding pops of color, texture, and extra flavor.
How to Make Crispy Roasted Cauliflower Hummus Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Cauliflower
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the cauliflower florets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them out evenly on a baking sheet to ensure they roast evenly. Pop them into the oven and let them roast for 25 to 30 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy on the edges. This roasting process is crucial because it brings out the natural sweetness of the cauliflower and gives it that addictive crunch you want to keep coming back for.
Step 2: Reserve Some Crispy Cauliflower
Once roasted, set aside a handful of those crispy florets to sprinkle over the top of your finished hummus. These little crispy bites make every spoonful exciting and add an irresistible texture contrast.
Step 3: Blend the Base
In a food processor, combine the remaining roasted cauliflower, chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, ground cumin, and a pinch of salt. Blend everything until the mixture becomes silky smooth. If it feels too thick, add 3 to 5 tablespoons of water, a little at a time, until you reach your perfect creamy consistency. This part is where all those simple ingredients come together to create that beautifully smooth and flavorful hummus base.
Step 4: Adjust Seasoning
Give your hummus a taste test and tweak the seasoning as needed—sometimes a little extra lemon juice or salt transforms it from good to absolutely divine. Don’t rush this step; flavor balance is what makes this Crispy Roasted Cauliflower Hummus Recipe truly unforgettable.
Step 5: Assemble and Garnish
Spoon your smooth, roasted cauliflower hummus into a serving bowl. Top it generously with the reserved crispy florets, then drizzle some olive oil over it for extra richness. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley, toasted pine nuts, and a pinch of paprika on top for a burst of color and nutty, smoky notes that elevate the dish to something genuinely special.
How to Serve Crispy Roasted Cauliflower Hummus Recipe
Garnishes
The garnishes are more than just decoration—they bring freshness, crunch, and a burst of flavor. The toasted pine nuts provide a lovely, toasty crunch, while the parsley adds a bright herbal touch. A drizzle of olive oil makes every bite rich and silky. Don’t forget the sprinkle of paprika for that finishing smoky pop that ties the whole dish together.
Side Dishes
This hummus pairs beautifully with warm pita bread or crisp fresh veggies like cucumber slices, carrot sticks, and bell peppers. It also makes an excellent spread on sandwiches and wraps, adding a unique roasted flavor and creamy texture that elevates any meal or snack.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the hummus in small glass jars for individual snacks or party plates. Layer it with a drizzle of pomegranate molasses or a sprinkle of za’atar spice for a Middle Eastern flair. Another idea is to spread it on flatbreads and top with your favorite roasted vegetables and a handful of greens for a quick, flavorful lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store your Crispy Roasted Cauliflower Hummus Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 4 days, making it a perfect make-ahead snack or spread to enjoy throughout the week.
Freezing
This hummus freezes surprisingly well, which is great if you want to prepare it in advance. Transfer it into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, and give it a good stir to refresh the texture.
Reheating
Since this recipe is a dip, it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. However, if you prefer a slightly warm version, gently warm it in the microwave for short increments, stirring in between, so it doesn’t dry out or lose its creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?
While fresh cauliflower offers the best texture for roasting, you can use frozen cauliflower if needed. Make sure to thaw and pat it dry before roasting to help it crisp up nicely.
Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
Yes! This Crispy Roasted Cauliflower Hummus Recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a wonderful option for various dietary preferences.
How spicy is the hummus?
The hummus has a mild warmth from the cumin and smoked paprika, but it isn’t spicy hot. You can always add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder if you like it with a bit more kick.
Can I use canned chickpeas that are not rinsed?
It’s best to rinse canned chickpeas to remove excess salt and any canning liquid that might alter the flavor or texture of the hummus.
What if I don’t have a food processor?
A blender can also work, but you might need to stop and scrape the sides more frequently. For a chunkier texture, you can mash the ingredients with a fork or potato masher, though it won’t be as smooth.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Roasted Cauliflower Hummus Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to favorites because it’s unexpectedly delicious and packed with flavor and texture that surprises at every bite. It’s easy to make yet feels impressive and fresh, perfect for sharing with friends or treating yourself. Give it a try—you won’t regret adding this vibrant dish to your regular rotation!
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Crispy Roasted Cauliflower Hummus Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Roasting and Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Crispy Roasted Cauliflower Hummus is a flavorful twist on classic hummus, combining roasted cauliflower with chickpeas, tahini, and spices for a creamy, nutrient-rich dip. The roasted cauliflower adds a smoky depth and crispy texture, making it perfect as a snack, appetizer, or spread for sandwiches and wraps.
Ingredients
Roasted Cauliflower
- 1 small head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Hummus
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- ¼ cup tahini
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- 3–5 tablespoons water (to adjust consistency)
- Salt to taste
Garnish
- Olive oil
- Parsley
- Toasted pine nuts
- Paprika
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for roasting the cauliflower, which will develop a crispy, caramelized texture.
- Roast cauliflower: Toss cauliflower florets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 25 to 30 minutes, until golden and crispy on the edges.
- Reserve crispy florets: Set aside a handful of the roasted cauliflower florets to use later as a topping for added texture and visual appeal.
- Blend hummus: In a food processor, combine the remaining roasted cauliflower, chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, ¼ teaspoon ground cumin, and salt. Blend them until smooth, gradually adding 3 to 5 tablespoons of water to achieve your desired creamy consistency.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the hummus and adjust the seasoning if necessary by adding more lemon juice or salt according to your preference.
- Serve and garnish: Spoon the hummus into a serving bowl, topping it with the reserved crispy cauliflower florets. Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, fresh parsley, toasted pine nuts, and a sprinkle of paprika for color and extra flavor.
- Enjoy: Serve your Crispy Roasted Cauliflower Hummus with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or as a flavorful spread for sandwiches and wraps.
Notes
- For extra smoky flavor, consider using smoked sea salt instead of regular salt.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the hummus for a subtle spicy kick.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best brightness and flavor.
- Leftover hummus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse the food processor instead of blending continuously.
- To make it vegan and gluten-free, this recipe already fits those criteria.
