If you’re looking for a twist on classic hummus, red lentil hummus with olives is an easy, healthy, and flavorful alternative! Packed with protein, fiber, and a unique taste, this version of hummus is ideal for snacks, appetizers, or even as a meal accompaniment. Plus, it’s gluten-free, vegan, and takes minimal time to prepare.
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What is Red Lentil Hummus?
Red lentil hummus is a creamy dip made with red lentils instead of the traditional chickpeas. The lentils bring a slightly nutty and earthy flavor, blending beautifully with tahini, olive oil, and lemon juice. With the addition of kalamata olives, this hummus offers a savory, briny kick that takes it to the next level.
Why Red Lentils?
Red lentils are an excellent substitute for chickpeas because they cook faster and are easier to digest. They have a subtle flavor that complements the bold tastes of tahini and olives, making them a fantastic base for hummus.
Nutritional Benefits of Red Lentils
Red lentils are packed with nutrients. They are rich in protein, fiber, and iron, making them a perfect ingredient for plant-based diets. Lentils are also low in fat, cholesterol-free, and a great source of folate and magnesium, supporting heart health and energy levels.
The Role of Olives in This Recipe
Kalamata olives bring a distinct, tangy flavor to the hummus. Their briny taste enhances the creaminess of the red lentils and tahini, providing a rich contrast. The olives also add healthy fats and antioxidants, elevating both the taste and the nutritional profile of the dish.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Here are the key ingredients for red lentil hummus and possible substitutions:
- Red Lentils: The star of the dish! If you’re in a pinch, you can use yellow lentils, but red lentils are best for their texture and mild taste.
- Tahini: A creamy sesame paste that adds richness. You can substitute with sunflower seed butter or almond butter if you’re allergic to sesame.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds smoothness and flavor. Avocado oil can be used as an alternative for a lighter taste.
- Lemon Juice: Brightens the flavors. Lime juice or apple cider vinegar works in a pinch.
- Kalamata Olives: Their briny taste pairs perfectly with the hummus. You can swap them with green olives or black olives if needed.
- Olive Juice: Enhances the olive flavor. You can substitute with extra lemon juice or vinegar if olive juice isn’t available.
- Garlic: Provides a sharp kick. You can use garlic powder or roasted garlic for a milder flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to taste.
- Turmeric (Optional): Adds a dash of color and health benefits. You can skip this or replace it with paprika for a smoky taste.
Helpful Tools to Make Red Lentil Hummus
To make the perfect red lentil hummus, having the right tools can make the process much easier:
- High-powered Blender: This is essential for getting a smooth and creamy texture. A food processor works well too.
- Medium Bowl: Used for serving and mixing.
- Knife for Chopping Olives: A sharp knife is needed to dice or slice the olives for topping.
- Measuring Spoons: For accurately measuring ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, and spices.
How to Make This Hummus With Lentils And Olives
Follow these simple steps to make your red lentil hummus:
Rinse the Lentils: Start by thoroughly rinsing your red lentils in water.
Cook the Lentils: Boil the lentils for 9 minutes or until they are soft. Drain the water.
Blend the Ingredients: Add the cooked lentils into a high-powered blender along with tahini, lemon juice, olive juice, garlic, salt, pepper, and turmeric (if using).
Blend Until Smooth: Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy.
Prepare the Olives: Dice the remaining olives into small pieces or leave them whole, depending on your preference.
Serve: Transfer the hummus into a medium bowl and top with a drizzle of olive oil and the chopped or whole olives.
Enjoy!: Serve with pita bread, veggie sticks, or crackers.
Serving Suggestions
This red lentil hummus pairs well with a variety of dishes. Serve it as a dip with warm pita bread, crunchy vegetables, or spread it on sandwiches for a protein-packed alternative. It’s also delicious as a side for roasted vegetables or grilled meats.
Tips & Tricks
- Consistency Matters: If the hummus is too thick, add a bit more olive juice or water to achieve the desired texture.
- Customize the Flavor: Adjust the lemon juice, garlic, and olives to suit your taste. You can also add smoked paprika or cumin for extra flavor.
- Storage: Store the hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Serve Warm or Cold: This hummus can be served either warm or cold, depending on your preference.
Storage & Shelf Life
Store your red lentil hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When freezing, store it in a freezer-safe container and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Health Benefits of This Hummus
This red lentil hummus is not only delicious but also highly nutritious. It’s rich in plant-based protein, healthy fats from the olive oil and tahini, and loaded with fiber. Red lentils provide essential minerals like iron and magnesium, while olives add antioxidants that support heart health.
FAQs
Yes, canned lentils work well for convenience. Just make sure to rinse them thoroughly before using.
Fresh veggies, pita bread, crackers, or even spread on sandwiches are great options
Yes, green or brown lentils can be used, but they have a firmer texture and slightly different taste.
Red Lentil Hummus with Olives
Ingredients
- 1 cup dry red lentils
- ¼ cup tahini
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ cup pitted kalamata olives
- 2 tbsp olive juice
- 1 clove garlic
- salt and pepper to taste
- dash of turmeric (optional for color)
Instructions
- Start by thoroughly rinsing your red lentils in water.
- Cook the lentils in boiling water for 9 mins. Drain the water off the lentils then add them into a high-powered blender.
- Into the blender, add tahini, lemon juice, olive juice, ¼ cup of the olives, garlic, salt, pepper, tahini and turmeric.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Dice the remaining olives into small pieces or leave them whole if desired.
- Transfer hummus into a medium bowl, and top with a drizzle of olive oil and the remaining olives.
- Serve, and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Conclusion: Hummus With Lentils And Olives
Red lentil hummus with olives is a nutritious and delicious twist on a classic recipe. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be enjoyed in so many different ways. Whether you’re serving it as a dip, spread, or snack, this hummus is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Loved this olive lentil hummus!! Excellent recipe. I also love olives so I knew I was going to like it 🙂
Thank you SO much brittany! I LOVE olives too 😉 so happy you loved the recipe!
This was really nice. I brought it to a gathering that had some dietary restrictions and everyone loved it. I added tons olives on top and was fantastic.
I’m so happy to hear this lentil hummus was a crowd pleaser! Thank you so much for trying out the recipe!