White Bean Hummus
I was an undergraduate when I first tried hummus, and I instantly fell in love with this tasty dip. If I had a particularly long day on campus, I would pack a pot with some chopped carrots to munch between lectures. Once I realised how simple it was to make my own, I started experimenting with different flavours. I love adding a tablespoon or two of harissa paste into the traditional chickpea hummus or swapping chickpeas for some other beans.
This version with white beans has a mild taste and is super versatile. It was inspired by an M&S salad that I once bought on my way to campus as I was getting ready to teach a class of postgraduate students. Funny how things have come full circle — from student days to teaching my own classes, I’m still fuelled by hummus ;)
If you would like to check out my recreated version of the M&S salad, and not just the hummus, click here.
Prep time: 5 minutes | Serves: 4 people | Plant points: 5+
Ingredients
400g tin/carton of cannellini beans (or other white beans) in water, drained and rinsed
3 cloves of garlic, peeled
Juice and zest from ½ lemon
1 tbsp tahini paste
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp water (adjust for desired consistency)
Salt, to taste
Chilli flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Method
Add the cannellini beans, garlic, lemon juice and zest, tahini paste, olive oil, and a pinch of salt to a food processor or blender.
Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides if needed.
Adjust the consistency by adding the water a little at a time until it reaches your preferred thickness. Taste and season with more salt.
Sprinkle with chilli flakes if desired and serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Why It Works
Cannellini beans are a fantastic source of plant-based protein and dietary fibre, while tahini and olive oil provide healthy fats to keep you satisfied. Lemon juice adds a zesty freshness, and the chilli flakes add a touch of heat.
Whether you’re juggling lectures, research deadlines, or exam marking, this white bean hummus is the ultimate fuss-free snack to help you power through the day.
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