(Note: this post was originally published on May 19, 2019. The date above reflects migration to the new platform.)
Looking for a different and exciting spin on hummus? Look no further; Roasted Lemon and Za'atar Hummus is here! Super unique and flavorful, this would be such a fun dip for your next gathering.
Inspired by our recent travels in southern Spain, this hummus has quickly become a favorite in our house. It makes use of some flavors that are big in southern Spain and Morocco, instantly transporting you to spice markets in narrow, cobblestone streets. We absolutely fell in love with the magical little city of Granada and it has inspired a few other recipes on this blog including my reinvented Patatas Bravas and my whimsical green bean salad If Green Beans Went to Southern Spain.
One of the big flavor stars in this hummus is roasted lemon. Slicing the lemon thinly and roasting it in olive oil gives the hummus such a complex, roasty undertone. For that reason, this hummus can really work year-round, unlike many lemon dishes that have a specifically springy vibe. If you're loving the idea of roasted lemon, definitely check out my favorite caramelized lemon sauce too!
The other star here is za'atar. Za'atar is a middle-eastern spice blend. Although its composition can vary, it usually contains herbs and sesame seeds, making it at once herby and nutty. I brought a bunch of za'atar back from the spice markets in Granada and have been putting it on practically everything!
Finally, I sometimes add goat cheese to this hummus. I know it's a bit crazy and far from a traditional approach to hummus, but I think it really pays homage to the fact that goat and sheep dairy are so important in Spain. Plus it makes the hummus especially creamy! However, if you don't do dairy, it's totally fine to omit this. As many of you know, I eat a ~90-95% vegan diet but make occasional exceptions for local, small-scale dairy since it's such a cornerstone of the Vermont foodscape.
Throw in some roasted garlic, pistachios, and sumac and you have yourself an ode to flavors of the southwestern Mediterranean.
Here's what you'll need for this recipe, as well as some thoughts, tips, and possible substitutions. If you make any substitutions, I'd love to hear about it in the comments section below.
What do you think? Is this combination genius or crazy? These flavors make me so nostalgic thinking about Granada. We had such a wonderful week there walking at least 20 miles a day, hiking in the hills above town, drinking local red wine in the evening sun, sampling all the tapas, and of course shopping for produce and spices in the street markets.
A big, nicely garnished bowl of hummus is perfect for a get-together; it looks so impressive, but is really quite quick, and can be made ahead of time. So serve this up as an appetizer alongside veggies and pita at your next get-together and relax with some red wine, southern Spain style.
It makes me so happy to hear from you and see your creations! Please leave a comment below and let me know what you think about this recipe. If you post a photo on Instagram, hashtag #TheRogueBrusselSprout and tag me (@TheRogueBrusselSprout) in the post text so that I'm sure to see it.
In this flavor-packed hummus, bright lemon is balanced by zesty za'atar and delightful roasty undertones. It's complex, can transcend seasons, and will keep you coming back for more.
For the Hummus
For Garnishing
Did you make this recipe? Did you make substitutions? How did you serve it? Any helpful tips? Please share your thoughts, since these insights are really useful to both me and to other readers.
Leave a Comment