Name: Crispy Roasted Cauliflower Hummus Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 medium head cauliflower (cut into small florets); 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas (drained and rinsed); 1/4 cup tahini; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 clove garlic (minced); 2–4 tablespoons cold water; Chopped parsley for garnish; Extra olive oil for drizzling

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If you’re looking to break out of the same-old hummus routine, let me introduce you to a marvelously flavorful twist: Crispy Roasted Cauliflower Hummus. Packed with roasty, smoky notes and a creamy, dreamy texture, this dip is destined to win over even the most devoted hummus traditionalist. Every bite delivers the golden crunch of oven-roasted cauliflower balanced by classic chickpeas, tahini, bright lemon, and a subtle garlic kick. Whether you’re prepping appetizers for a party or jazzing up lunchboxes for the week, this vibrant, healthy spread is about to become your new obsession.

Crispy Roasted Cauliflower Hummus Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things simple and wholesome, but each ingredient truly shines to create mouthwatering layers of taste and color. The magic happens when these everyday staples come together, each playing a starring role in the final masterpiece.

Cauliflower: Break a medium head into small florets for maximum crispy edges—you’ll appreciate the caramelized flavor they bring.
Olive Oil: Divided for roasting and blending, good-quality olive oil adds richness and helps crisp up the veggies beautifully.
Smoked Paprika: This smoky spice is the secret to irresistible depth; don’t skip it!
Ground Cumin: Just a touch infuses the hummus with cozy, earthy warmth.
Garlic Powder: Roasts directly on the cauliflower for a mild, toasty garlic undertone.
Salt: Essential for brightening and balancing every flavor here.
Black Pepper: Adds subtle heat and rounds out the spices.
Chickpeas: One can, drained and rinsed—these add body and classic hummus flavor.
Tahini: Creamy sesame paste is what makes any hummus sing; use fresh, high-quality tahini if you can.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed for zing that wakes up and balances the savory notes.
Raw Garlic: Just a clove, minced finely, gives a fresh aromatic pop.
Cold Water: Add gradually to achieve your dream creamy consistency—cold water yields the smoothest dip.
Chopped Parsley: A final sprinkle for fresh color and a hint of herbal brightness.
Extra Olive Oil: For drizzling—never skip that luscious olive oil finish!

How to Make Crispy Roasted Cauliflower Hummus

Step 1: Roast the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to a sizzling 425°F. Toss your cauliflower florets with two tablespoons of the olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper right on a large sheet pan. Spread them out in a single layer—they need their space to crisp, not steam! Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway so every nook turns golden brown and delicious. When you see those irresistible crispy edges, you’ll know they’re ready. Be sure to reserve a small handful of the prettiest pieces for garnish before moving to the next step.

Step 2: Blend Your Base

While the cauliflower is transforming in the oven, set up your food processor with the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, minced fresh garlic, and the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. This combo forms the creamy backbone of your Crispy Roasted Cauliflower Hummus, delivering the familiar richness you love with a hint of brightness from the lemon.

Step 3: Bring It All Together

Add the hot, freshly roasted cauliflower (except those reserved florets) to the food processor. Start blending, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed. Gradually drizzle in the cold water—usually two to four tablespoons—until the hummus becomes perfectly smooth and light. Taste, then adjust with a pinch more salt or lemon if your tastebuds call for it. The result should be ultra-creamy with flecks of golden cauliflower throughout.

Step 4: Plate and Garnish

Transfer your crispy roasted cauliflower hummus to a serving bowl, swirling it invitingly with the back of a spoon. Top with the reserved roasted florets, a generous drizzle of your best olive oil, and a shower of chopped parsley. For a final flourish, sprinkle with a touch of extra smoked paprika for that wow factor.

How to Serve Crispy Roasted Cauliflower Hummus

Garnishes

A great garnish not only looks delightful but also adds flavor and texture. I love to reserve a few of the crispier cauliflower florets for the crown, then scatter over a generous handful of freshly chopped parsley and a dramatic drizzle of robust olive oil. Extra smoked paprika on top is optional but highly recommended!

Side Dishes

The options here are endless. Arrange warm pita triangles, crunchy bread sticks, seeded crackers, or a garden’s worth of raw veggie sticks (think cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers) alongside your bowl. This dip also loves to cozy up with falafel, grain bowls, or as a spread in sandwiches and wraps for bold flavor with every bite.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to stun at your next gathering, consider serving your crispy roasted cauliflower hummus in a hollowed-out round loaf of sourdough for an edible bowl, or make individual appetizer cups with a dollop of hummus topped with a roasted floret and microgreens. For parties, spoon the dip onto crisp lettuce leaves for fresh, hand-held bites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover crispy roasted cauliflower hummus keeps beautifully in the fridge. Scoop any extra into an airtight container with a little olive oil on top to keep everything moist. Stored this way, your flavorful dip will stay fresh and delicious for up to four days—perfect for snacking or adding to meals all week long.

Freezing

Believe it or not, this hummus can be frozen! Place it in a freezer-safe container, leave some space at the top, and add a slick of olive oil for extra protection against freezer burn. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying. The texture may be a touch less fluffy after thawing, but give it a vigorous stir and it’ll perk up nicely.

Reheating

If you like your hummus warm (especially dreamy on chilly days), gently reheat it in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to keep things evenly creamy. Alternatively, heat over low in a saucepan, adding a splash of water or olive oil if needed to loosen it up. Just remember to top off with fresh garnishes before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without a food processor?

While a food processor yields the smoothest texture, you can definitely use a high-powered blender or even a sturdy potato masher for a chunkier, more rustic take on crispy roasted cauliflower hummus. Just be sure to thoroughly mash the cauliflower and chickpeas!

What other vegetables could I try roasting for this hummus?

Absolutely—think of this recipe as a template! Roasted carrots, sweet potatoes, or even beetroot all work wonderfully. Each will bring its own unique hue and earthy sweetness, creating endless hummus possibilities for your snack table.

How spicy is this hummus?

This version is more smoky than spicy, thanks to smoked paprika and a hint of black pepper. If you love heat, add a pinch of cayenne or some chili flakes to the spice mix before roasting the cauliflower for an extra kick.

Is crispy roasted cauliflower hummus suitable for meal prep?

It certainly is! Prepare a batch on Sunday and use it all week long as a spread, dip, or topping. Its sturdy texture means it holds up great in the fridge, making it a perfect component for lunches and quick snacks.

Can I make this without tahini?

Yes—if you don’t have tahini or want a nut-free version, try substituting with unsweetened sunflower seed butter or even a little extra olive oil for richness. The flavor will be slightly different, but you’ll still enjoy a creamy and delicious dip.

Final Thoughts

This crispy roasted cauliflower hummus is more than just a dip; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients made extraordinary. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or savoring a bowl all by yourself, it’s proof that a little roasting magic can turn the humble cauliflower into a true showstopper. I can’t wait for you to try it—happy dipping!

Crispy Roasted Cauliflower Hummus Recipe

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4.7 from 6 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free

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Description

This Crispy Roasted Cauliflower Hummus recipe is a delightful twist on traditional hummus, featuring the earthy flavors of roasted cauliflower blended with chickpeas and tahini. Perfect for parties or a healthy snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Cauliflower:

1 medium head cauliflower (cut into small florets)
3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Hummus:

1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
1/4 cup tahini
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 clove garlic (minced)
2–4 tablespoons cold water

Additional:

Chopped parsley for garnish
Extra olive oil for drizzling

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F.
Roast Cauliflower: Toss cauliflower with 2 tablespoons olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Roast for 25–30 minutes.
Prepare Hummus: Blend chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. Add roasted cauliflower and blend until smooth, adjusting consistency with water.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve: Transfer hummus to a bowl, top with reserved cauliflower, parsley, and olive oil. Serve with pita, crackers, or veggies.