Need a basic hummus recipe with 5 ingredients or less that you can whip up for that last second backyard barbecue invitation? Here it is! Simple and delicious, with no oil needed. It’s just so darn good. I love the simplicity of this hummus. And since we’re on the subject, I see nothing wrong with being “that vegan” that brings hummus to the party. Someone’s gotta do it.

image credit: Gemma Correl

Besides, everyone loves hummus. I don’t care who you are. If you’re feeling creative and want to mix things up, I have 5 easy variations, using ingredients you probably have on hand. I like to switch up my hummus and play with different flavors, feel free to experiment and come up with your own! I also loved this white bean hummus just plain and simple with a variety of veggies, pita bread, and crackers.

Need some inspiration? Try some of these fun hummus variations:

Ranch: basic recipe + 1/2 tsp onion powder + 1 tsp dried parsley + 1 tsp dried dill + 1/4 tsp dried onion onion flakes+ pinch or two of black pepper

Barbecue: basic recipe + 3 Tbsp (or more to taste) store bought or homemade BBQ sauce (you may want to hold off on adding water with this variation) Try my easy No-Cook Barbecue Sauce

Sun-Dried Tomato: basic recipe + 1/4 – 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil (rinsed) + pinch of paprika + pinch red pepper flakes (for a sun-dried tomato and basil hummus add fresh chopped basil, 1-2 tablespoons)

Wasabi: basic recipe + 1/2 – 1 tsp wasabi paste + top with pickled ginger

Fiesta: basic recipe + 1 tsp cumin + 1/4 tsp chipotle chili powder + swap lime juice for lemon juice + 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro for garnish or mixed in

What flavors and variations can you come up with? Grab your food processor and get blendin’! 

Quick White Bean Hummus – Oil-free, Vegan

• 1 – 15 oz can of great northern white beans or cannelini beans or about 2 cups cooked beans
• juice of 1/2 lemon
• 2 – 3 Tbsp of tahini
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1/4 tsp sea salt (optional)
• pinch or two of cumin (optional)
• water as needed to thin

Directions: Blend all ingredients in your food processor adding a little bit of water (a tablespoon at a time) to thin out the hummus as desired. Store in the fridge. It will thicken as it cools.