If you have ever dreamed of combining the creamy goodness of classic hummus with the vibrant, tangy, and herbaceous flavors of a beloved zesty seasoning, this Cool Ranch Hummus Recipe is your new best friend. It’s a refreshing twist on the traditional hummus that brings a burst of ranch-inspired flavor, making it perfect for snacking, dipping, or spreading anytime you crave something bold yet comforting. The blend of apple cider vinegar, dill, garlic, and onion powders creates a bright, tangy profile that will have you reaching for more with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this Cool Ranch Hummus Recipe requires just a handful of simple but powerful ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building the hummus’s creamy texture, tangy zing, and irresistible savory notes.
- 18 oz cooked chickpeas or 2 cans unsalted and drained: The smooth, protein-packed base that gives hummus its signature creamy texture.
- 1/3 cup water: Helps achieve the perfect consistency without diluting the vibrant flavors.
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: Adds that irresistible tang and lifts all the other flavors beautifully.
- 2 1/2 tbsp oil or more water: Provides richness and smoothness; use oil for a silkiest finish or water for a lighter version.
- 1 tbsp onion powder: Brings a gentle, savory depth that complements the other spices flawlessly.
- 2 tsp dried dill: The herbaceous star of this recipe, delivering that quintessential ranch note.
- 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Gives a warm and fragrant punch to round out the savory profile.
- 1 tsp salt, or more to taste: Enhances all the flavors and balances the brightness perfectly; feel free to adjust.
- Optional 1/4 cup nutritional yeast: Adds a delicious cheesy, nutty flavor that elevates the hummus to a whole new level.
How to Make Cool Ranch Hummus Recipe
Step 1: Combine All Ingredients
Start by adding your cooked chickpeas (or drained cans), water, apple cider vinegar, oil, onion powder, dried dill, garlic powder, salt, and any optional nutritional yeast into a high-powered blender or food processor. This simple combination is the magic behind this dish’s distinctive taste.
Step 2: Blend Until Smooth
Process everything until the mixture becomes completely smooth and creamy. The goal is to achieve a luscious, spreadable texture without any lumps. If you’re using a hand blender and doing a half portion, just make sure to blend thoroughly for the best consistency.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust
This step is essential because every palate is different. Give your hummus a quick taste and add a pinch more salt or a splash of vinegar if you want to punch up the flavor. Blend again briefly if you add anything.
Step 4: Chill or Serve Immediately
You can enjoy your Cool Ranch Hummus right away for a burst of fresh flavor, or cover and refrigerate it to let the tastes meld even more — it only gets better after sitting a few hours!
How to Serve Cool Ranch Hummus Recipe
Garnishes
Presentation really amps up the experience. Sprinkle your hummus with a little extra dried dill, a dusting of paprika, or even some finely chopped chives or green onions for a pop of color and fresh flavor. A drizzle of olive oil adds a luscious shine and richness that feels just like a gift on the palate.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with crunchy veggies like crisp carrot sticks, celery, and bell peppers, or with toasted pita wedges that add a satisfying chew. It also makes a fantastic topping for grain bowls or sandwiches, elevating even simple meals to exciting new heights.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the bowl. Serve your Cool Ranch Hummus as a layer in a colorful dip platter, alternate it with guacamole or salsa, or dollop it atop baked potatoes for an unexpected twist. It even shines smeared on wraps or used as a cool sauce for grilled meats or roasted veggies.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Cool Ranch Hummus, no worries! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and it will stay fresh for up to 4 days. This gives you plenty of time to savor its bright flavors again and again.
Freezing
While freezing fresh hummus isn’t always recommended because of textural changes, you can freeze this Cool Ranch Hummus Recipe if needed. Use a freezer-safe container and thaw it overnight in the fridge. It may need a quick stir or splash of water to bring back some creaminess after thawing.
Reheating
This dish is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is generally not necessary. If you do prefer it slightly warmed, gently bring it to room temp before serving to preserve the bright, tangy flavors and creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use canned chickpeas for this Cool Ranch Hummus Recipe?
Absolutely! Using canned chickpeas is a great time-saver and works perfectly as long as they’re unsalted and well drained. You’ll still get that creamy texture and fantastic flavor.
What can I substitute for dried dill if I don’t have it?
If dried dill is unavailable, try fresh dill (use a bit more as fresh is less concentrated) or blend in a pinch of dried parsley with a little celery seed for a slightly different but still delicious ranch vibe.
Is this hummus vegan?
Yes! The Cool Ranch Hummus Recipe is entirely plant-based, especially when you skip the optional nutritional yeast or choose a vegan brand. It’s an excellent vegan-friendly snack or appetizer.
How spicy is this Cool Ranch Hummus?
It’s very mild, focused on tangy and herby flavors rather than heat. If you want a spicy kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce during blending.
Can I make this recipe oil-free?
Definitely! Substitute the oil entirely with water or vegetable broth when blending. The texture will remain creamy, just a bit lighter, and the flavor will still be fantastic.
Final Thoughts
This Cool Ranch Hummus Recipe is truly a delightful twist on classic hummus that combines familiar flavors with an exciting ranch-inspired flair. It’s quick to whip up, endlessly versatile, and perfect for adding a fresh, zesty punch to your snack or meal rotation. I promise once you try it, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dips—so go ahead and dive into this delicious adventure!
Print
Cool Ranch Hummus Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 2 cups
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Cool Ranch Hummus is a vibrant twist on classic hummus, blending zesty apple cider vinegar with herbs like dill and savory onion and garlic powders to create a creamy, flavorful dip. Perfect for snacking or as a party appetizer, it provides a deliciously tangy and cheesy option when nutritional yeast is added.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 18 oz cooked chickpeas OR 2 cans unsalted and drained chickpeas
- 1/3 cup water
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 1/2 tbsp oil (such as olive oil) OR more water for desired consistency
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 2 tsp dried dill
- 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 to 1 1/4 tsp salt, or more to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Drain and rinse the chickpeas if using canned. Measure out all spices and liquids to have everything ready for blending.
- Combine in Blender: Place the cooked chickpeas, water, apple cider vinegar, oil (or additional water if preferred), onion powder, dried dill, garlic powder, and salt into a high-quality blender or food processor.
- Process Until Smooth: Blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. This usually takes a couple of minutes—stop and scrape down the sides as needed.
- Add Nutritional Yeast (Optional): If a cheesy flavor is desired, add the nutritional yeast and blend again briefly to incorporate.
- Adjust Consistency and Seasoning: Taste the hummus and add more salt or water/oil if a thinner consistency is preferred. Blend again to combine.
- Store: Transfer the Cool Ranch Hummus to an airtight container and refrigerate. It can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Notes
- Using unsalted chickpeas allows control over sodium levels.
- For a vegan and dairy-free cheesy flavor, nutritional yeast is a great addition.
- The oil can be substituted with more water for a lower-fat version.
- This hummus can be served with fresh vegetables, chips, or as a spread on sandwiches.
- Ensure the blender or food processor is powerful for the smoothest texture.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt, depending on your preference and dietary needs.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dip
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American