Cauliflower Hummus with Roasted Vegetables
Much like our beloved chickpea hummus, this cauliflower hummus is simply a matter of pureeing chickpeas with some flavorings until they're smooth and luscious. A basic hummus is a playground for creativity, so feel free to add anything you like. If you want a spicy hummus, add a chopped jalapeño. If you want an herby hummus, add plenty of chopped herbs, such as parsley, cilantro, or dill. If you want a roasted garlic hummus, roast a head of garlic and add the cloves to the blender. You could even add a cup of chopped roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or onions, for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
The first time I made this hummus, I was trying to find a way to use up some leftover cauliflower. I had roasted a head of cauliflower for dinner the night before, and I had about half of it left. I didn't want to just eat it plain, so I decided to try making hummus with it. I added some olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the cauliflower and blended it until it was smooth. The result was a creamy, flavorful hummus that was even better than the chickpea hummus I usually make. Since then, I've made this hummus many times, and I've always been happy with the results. It's a great way to use up leftover cauliflower, and it's a delicious and healthy snack or appetizer.
Cauliflower Hummus with Roasted Vegetables Cauliflower Hummus with Roasted Vegetables Cauliflower Hummus with Roasted Vegetables Cauliflower Hummus with Roasted Vegetables
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 25 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 head of cauliflower, chopped
  • 1/2 cup of olive oil
  • 1/4 cup of lemon juice
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1/2 cup of roasted vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, or onions)
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Toss cauliflower with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  2. Spread cauliflower on a baking sheet and roast in preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until tender.
  3. Transfer roasted cauliflower to a food processor and pulse until smooth.
  4. Add roasted vegetables to the food processor and pulse until combined.
  5. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve with pita bread, crackers, or chips.
Why It Works
  • Roasting the cauliflower before blending it gives it a slightly caramelized flavor that adds depth to the hummus.
  • The lemon juice adds a bit of brightness and acidity to the hummus, which helps to balance out the richness of the cauliflower.
  • The cumin adds a warm, earthy flavor to the hummus.
  • The garlic adds a savory flavor to the hummus.
  • The salt and pepper help to enhance the other flavors in the hummus.