Ultimate Oil-Free Hummus

The Ultimate Creamy Oil-Free Hummus Recipe: Your Healthy & Easy Homemade Dip

Discover how to make the best oil-free hummus with simple ingredients like chickpeas, tahini, lemon, and a touch of almond milk. This recipe is perfect for healthy snacking, versatile dips, and delicious spreads!

The Best Oil-Free Hummus served in ceramic bowl on wooden board with two lemon halves on the side and bowl of crackers

Last weekend, I embarked on my inaugural outdoor adventure since moving to Maryland, and it was truly a breath of fresh air. I had the pleasure of visiting Weverton Cliffs, a stunning overlook, with one of my dearest friends from high school. One of the absolute joys of settling in Maryland has been living in the same state as this wonderful lady, with whom I’ve maintained a close connection since the seventh grade!

The hike to the summit of Weverton Cliffs, though relatively short, felt wonderfully long as we immersed ourselves in catching up on the past year of our lives. It was fascinating to reflect on how much we’ve both grown and changed since our last in-person hug. Sharing these transformations felt incredibly empowering, a testament to personal journeys we were both immensely proud of. At the breathtaking overlook, we paused to capture the moment, taking countless pictures, embracing, and posing against a magnificent backdrop of lush tree canopies and an expansive blue sky. Afterwards, we settled against cool slabs of rock, closing our eyes for a shared breath work meditation. It was a truly magical experience – a moment of peace and connection in nature.

And speaking of magical, prepare to be enchanted by this recipe for The Best Oil-Free Hummus. Much like that serene moment at Weverton Cliffs, this hummus brings a delightful simplicity and richness to your life. It’s a truly versatile staple that pairs beautifully with… well, literally anything! What makes it even more extraordinary is how effortless it is to create. In just 10 minutes, you can whip up a batch of this creamy, delicious dip right in your kitchen, completely free of any preservatives or added oils. This means you get all the incredible flavor and health benefits without any unnecessary additives, making it the perfect healthy snack or accompaniment for any meal. Let’s dive into how you can elevate your snacking game with this delightful homemade hummus.

chickpeas, almond milk, tahini, seasonings, and two lemons halves on wooden board

Why Make Homemade Oil-Free Hummus?

At my house, hummus isn’t just a snack; it’s a way of life! You’ll find it perpetually listed on my grocery lists, scribbled with a ballpoint pen on the back of used printer paper. It’s an indispensable ingredient in our kitchen for countless reasons. I love incorporating this flavorful chickpea dip into vibrant Buddha bowls, using it as a healthier alternative to ketchup for dipping sweet potato fries, and slathering generous amounts onto veggie burgers for an extra layer of creaminess and tang. I’ve even been known to mash it up with avocado to create a thick, rich, and utterly delicious paste-y salad dressing. Trust me, it sounds unconventional, but don’t knock it ’til you try it!

While I certainly appreciate the convenience of store-bought hummus, both my partner M and I were absolutely thrilled with this particular homemade, oil-free variation. The difference in freshness and flavor was truly remarkable, leading me to a profound realization: making your own hummus from scratch is not only incredibly rewarding but also something I should absolutely do more often. Opting for homemade hummus allows you to control every single ingredient, ensuring you’re consuming a pure, wholesome product free from unwanted preservatives, excessive sodium, or unhealthy oils often found in commercial brands. This commitment to fresh, simple ingredients is what truly elevates this recipe.

Moreover, making your own hummus is surprisingly cost-effective. Chickpeas, tahini, and lemons are relatively inexpensive staples, and combining them at home often yields a much larger batch for a fraction of the price of store-bought equivalents. Beyond the financial benefits, there’s a deep satisfaction in crafting something so delicious and nutritious with your own hands. It’s a small step towards more mindful eating and healthier living, providing a protein-packed, fiber-rich, and incredibly tasty addition to your diet. This homemade oil-free hummus is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly exceptional, offering a superior taste and texture that store-bought versions simply can’t replicate. It’s time to ditch the highly processed options and embrace the fresh, vibrant flavors of truly homemade, healthy hummus.

Bob's Red Mill Oat Crackers on wooden board with crackers

What You Need to Make The Best Oil-Free Hummus

Crafting this incredible oil-free hummus recipe requires a surprisingly short list of pantry staples, all chosen for their ability to deliver maximum flavor and creaminess without any added oils. This simplicity is part of its charm and makes it incredibly accessible for anyone looking to whip up a healthy dip in minutes. Here’s a breakdown of the core ingredients:

  • Chickpeas: These legumes form the hearty, protein-rich base of our hummus. Using canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed) makes the process incredibly fast and convenient. For an even smoother texture, some prefer to remove the skins, though it’s not strictly necessary for a delicious outcome.
  • Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is paramount here. It brightens the flavor profile, adding that essential zesty tang that makes hummus so irresistible. Don’t skimp on fresh lemons – it makes all the difference!
  • Runny Tahini: Tahini, a paste made from ground sesame seeds, is crucial for hummus. It provides that signature nutty flavor and a luxurious, silky texture. Look for a good quality, runny tahini for the creamiest results. If yours is too thick, a quick stir or even a tiny splash of warm water can help.
  • Unsweetened Almond Milk: This is our secret weapon for achieving an incredibly creamy consistency without any oil. It adds a subtle richness and helps the blender work its magic, transforming the ingredients into a smooth, velvety dip. Ensure it’s unsweetened to maintain the savory profile of the hummus.
  • Ground Cumin: A staple spice in hummus, cumin provides a warm, earthy depth that is absolutely essential for authentic flavor.
  • Garlic Powder: For a quick and easy garlic flavor without the sharpness of raw garlic, garlic powder works beautifully. You can adjust the amount to your preference or even use a fresh clove if you’re a garlic enthusiast.
  • Himalayan Sea Salt: To enhance all the flavors and balance the tanginess of the lemon.
  • Ground Black Pepper: A pinch of black pepper adds a subtle warmth and rounds out the seasoning.

That’s it! With these simple, wholesome ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a truly exceptional vegan, oil-free hummus that will impress everyone who tries it. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to customize it to your exact taste preferences.

The Best Oil-Free Hummus ingredients in blender on wooden board

How to Make The Best Oil-Free Hummus for Optimal Creaminess

Creating a perfectly smooth and creamy oil-free hummus is simpler than you might think, especially when you have the right tools and a few helpful tips. I personally use a Vitamix blender, which is fantastic for achieving an ultra-silky texture. However, any high-speed blender or a robust food processor will do the trick just as effectively. The key is patience and a willingness to scrape down the sides, ensuring all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.

To begin, gather all your ingredients: the drained and rinsed chickpeas, freshly squeezed lemon juice, the runny tahini, your chosen blend of spices (cumin, garlic powder, Himalayan sea salt, and black pepper), and a starting measure of 2 tablespoons of unsweetened almond milk. Add all these components to your blending machine. Now, it’s time to blend! Process everything until the mixture becomes beautifully smooth and creamy. You’ll want to pause occasionally to scrape down the sides of the blender or food processor with a spatula, pushing any stray pieces back towards the blades. This ensures a consistent texture throughout the entire batch.

Once you’ve reached a generally smooth consistency, it’s highly recommended to taste the mixture. This is where you truly make the hummus your own. You might find it needs a little more zing from the lemon, a deeper earthiness from the cumin, an extra kick of garlic, or simply more salt and pepper to suit your palate. Don’t be shy about adjusting the seasonings until it’s absolutely perfect for you.

Beyond flavor, pay close attention to the consistency. Hummus consistency is very much a personal preference, and this recipe allows for easy customization. If you prefer a thinner, silkier hummus – ideal for drizzling over salads or as a dip for delicate vegetables – gradually add a few more tablespoons of almond milk, blending again after each addition until you achieve your desired flow. For a thicker, more robust hummus, perfect for hearty spreads on sandwiches or generously layering onto toast, you might stick closer to the initial amount of almond milk. I personally find that I like a thicker hummus for spreads, offering a satisfying texture, while a slightly thinner consistency is perfect for effortless dipping. This flexibility means your homemade oil-free hummus will always be exactly how you like it.

The Best Oil-Free Hummus blended in Vitamix on wooden board

Pairing with Bob’s Red Mill Classic Oat Crackers

Once you’ve perfected the seasonings and achieved your ideal hummus consistency, you’re ready to indulge! While this versatile oil-free hummus can be enjoyed in countless ways, I have a particularly delightful recommendation for serving: Bob’s Red Mill Classic Oat Crackers! These aren’t just any crackers; they are the perfect companion for our creamy hummus, offering a crisp, satisfying crunch that wonderfully complements the smooth texture of the dip.

What makes these crackers truly stand out? They are meticulously crafted to be both vegan and gluten-free, using wholesome ingredients like hearty oats, nutritious quinoa, almonds, and flaxseed. This thoughtful combination not only ensures a delicious taste but also aligns perfectly with a health-conscious lifestyle. I especially appreciate that they are plant-based and made with whole grain ingredients that I can unequivocally trust, providing a wholesome foundation for any snack or appetizer.

Beyond their impressive nutritional profile, Bob’s Red Mill Classic Oat Crackers boast the ideal shape and size for all your dipping, stacking, and spreading needs. Their sturdy, square form makes them perfect for scooping up a generous dollop of hummus without breaking, creating an effortless and enjoyable snack experience. This classic combination of a savory, creamy dip and a crisp, wholesome cracker is simply amazing. It’s an unbeatable duo that’s perfect for casual snack-time, elegant appetizers, or entertaining guests with a healthy and flavorful spread. Together, they create a balanced and satisfying bite that will quickly become a go-to in your repertoire.

hand scooping out Best Oil-Free Hummus from Vitamix with a cracker

Creative Ways to Serve The Best Oil-Free Hummus

While Bob’s Red Mill Classic Oat Crackers are an excellent choice, the beauty of this oil-free hummus lies in its incredible versatility. Don’t worry if you don’t have crackers on hand; there are countless creative and delicious ways to enjoy this healthy, homemade dip. Let your culinary imagination soar and integrate this creamy goodness into a variety of meals and snacks. Here are some of my favorite serving ideas to inspire you:

  • In Salads or Bowls: Elevate your favorite salads and grain bowls by dolloping a generous spoonful of hummus on top. It adds a rich, creamy texture and a burst of flavor, acting as a natural dressing or a hearty component.
  • With Raw Vegetables: The classic pairing! Fresh, crunchy raw vegetables like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, and celery are perfect for dipping into this light and savory hummus. It’s a refreshing and healthy snack.
  • With Sweet Potato Fries: Move over, ketchup! This hummus makes an incredibly flavorful and wholesome alternative for dipping crispy sweet potato fries. The earthy notes of the sweet potato wonderfully complement the bright, tangy hummus.
  • With Apples (An Unpopular Opinion, I Know!): Hear me out! The slight sweetness of crisp apple slices (like Honeycrisp or Fuji) creates an unexpected yet surprisingly delightful contrast with the savory hummus. Don’t knock it until you try this unique flavor combination!
  • On Sandwiches or Burgers: Ditch the mayonnaise! Spread a layer of this oil-free hummus onto your sandwiches, wraps, or veggie burgers for a creamy, flavorful, and healthier condiment. It adds moisture and a wonderful depth of flavor.
  • On Toast: For a quick and nutritious breakfast or snack, spread hummus generously over toasted bread. You can top it with everything bagel seasoning, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or fresh herbs for an extra touch.
  • As a Dressing Base: Thin out a portion of the hummus with a little extra almond milk or water, a splash of apple cider vinegar, and perhaps some extra lemon juice to create a creamy, flavorful salad dressing.

These are just a starting point! I encourage you to experiment and create your own unique combinations. There’s no wrong way to enjoy this delightful healthy hummus. Be sure to share your favorite serving ideas with me – I always love to hear new and inventive ways to savor this versatile dip!

The Best Oil-Free Hummus served in ceramic bowl on wooden board with two lemon halves on the side and bowl of crackers

Flavorful Mix-Ins for Customizing Your Oil-Free Hummus

This recipe for The Best Oil-Free Hummus serves as a fantastic, versatile blueprint for hummus lovers seeking an easy, no-oil-added version to prepare at home. While it’s absolutely delicious on its own, its simple base makes it incredibly adaptable to a wide array of flavor profiles. Feel empowered to get creative and customize your hummus with various mix-ins to craft endless delicious variations that cater to your specific cravings. Here are some fantastic add-in ideas to inspire your culinary experimentation:

  • Roasted Red Pepper: For a sweet and smoky twist, blend in some roasted red peppers. Their vibrant color and deep flavor add a gourmet touch.
  • Kalamata Olive: If you love a briny, savory kick, pitted Kalamata olives are an excellent choice. They bring a wonderful Mediterranean essence to your hummus.
  • Extra Garlic: For serious garlic aficionados, blending in an extra clove or two of fresh garlic will provide a more pungent and robust flavor.
  • Lemon Dill: Combine fresh dill with an extra squeeze of lemon for a bright, herbaceous, and incredibly refreshing hummus, perfect for spring and summer.
  • Cayenne: If you crave a little heat, a pinch or two of cayenne pepper will give your hummus a delightful spicy kick.
  • Beet: For a strikingly vibrant color and a subtle earthy sweetness, roasted beets are a wonderful addition. They also boost the nutritional content.
  • Avocado: Blend in half an avocado for an even creamier texture and a richer, slightly buttery flavor, plus a boost of healthy fats.
  • Carrot: Roasted carrots can add a natural sweetness and a beautiful orange hue, making for a unique and flavorful hummus.

Honestly, it’s hard to go wrong when it comes to hummus combinations! The base recipe is so forgiving and delicious that most additions will only enhance its appeal. After you’ve enjoyed dipping, spreading, and sharing your freshly made hummus, ensure any leftovers are stored properly. Transfer your extra hummus to an airtight container and refrigerate it. It will maintain its freshness and delicious flavor for up to one week, making it a convenient and healthy staple to have on hand throughout your busy week. Enjoy the endless possibilities that this incredible homemade oil-free hummus offers!

The Best Oil-Free Hummus served in ceramic bowl on wooden board with two lemon halves on the side and bowl of crackers

Explore More Homemade Hummus Recipes

If you’ve enjoyed making this easy and healthy oil-free hummus, you’re in for a treat! The world of homemade hummus is vast and exciting, offering an array of flavors and nutritional benefits. Whether you’re looking for sweet or savory, classic or adventurous, there’s a hummus recipe out there for every palate. Expand your repertoire and discover new favorites with these other incredible homemade hummus creations:

  • Sunny SunButter Hummus

  • Date-Sweetened Dark Chocolate Hummus

  • Easy Beet Hummus

  • Spicy Black Bean Hummus

  • Raw Carrot Hummus

  • Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Hummus (Oil-Free!)

  • 5-Ingredient Pumpkin Hummus

I Want to Hear From You!

If you dive into making this wonderful Oil-Free Hummus recipe, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Your feedback is invaluable and helps me create even more delicious recipes for you to enjoy.

Please be sure to leave a comment, a rating, and a review below to share your thoughts and any delicious twists you added. Your feedback helps me immensely as I strive to bring you more “yums” in the future.

Don’t forget to give me a shout-out on Instagram and use the hashtag #floraandvino to showcase your beautiful creations. I love seeing how you bring these recipes to life in your own kitchens!

For more healthy and delicious plant-based recipes like this one, be sure to check out my Pinterest page. You can pin your favorite recipes to make later and build your collection of wholesome meals and snacks.

Love this post and want to stay updated with all my latest recipes and healthy living tips? Head over to my homepage and subscribe to get fresh content delivered straight to your inbox!

XO Lauren

cracker dipped in the hummus on wooden board


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The Best Oil-Free Hummus Recipe

The Best Oil-Free Hummus



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5 from 1 review


  • Author:
    Flora & Vino


  • Total Time:
    10 minutes


  • Yield:
    ~2 cups


  • Diet:
    Vegan
Print Recipe
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Description

Oil-free hummus with chickpeas, tahini, lemon, and a splash of almond milk. Perfect to prepare for snacking, dips, and spreads!


Ingredients

  • 1 15-oz. can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 TBSP lemon juice
  • ¼ cup runny tahini
  • 24 TBSP unsweetened almond milk (+more as needed to reach desired consistency)
  • ¼ tsp ground cumin
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp Himalayan sea salt
  • ⅛ tsp ground black pepper
  • Bob’s Red Mill Classic Oat Crackers, for serving


Instructions

  1. Add the chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, spices, and 2 TBSP of unsweetened almond milk to a high speed blender or food processor and blend until well-combined and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
  2. Taste the mixture and add more lemon, cumin, garlic, salt, and pepper to taste. Add up to 2 more Tablespoons of more almond milk for a thinner consistency, as desired. 
  3. Serve your hummus with Bob’s Red Mill Classic Oat Crackers!
  4. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Notes

Recipe adapted from Ela Vegan

  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 0 mins
  • Category: Dip, Spread
  • Method: Blender
  • Cuisine: Vegan, Oil-Free, Gluten-Free, Refined-Sugar-Free

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This post is brought to you by Bob’s Red Mill, but all words and eats are my own. Thanks for supporting the sponsors that keep me hungry!