Dessert

Loaded Hummus with Roasted Chickpeas, Red Onion, Parsley, Feta, and Pomegranate Seeds Recipe

ByLuna Ryder December 8, 2025December 8, 2025

Introduction

Loaded hummus is a creamy, flavorful twist on the classic Middle Eastern dip, packed with vibrant toppings like toasted chickpeas, fresh herbs, and tangy feta. It’s perfect as a snack or appetizer and brings a delightful mix of textures and tastes to your table.

A plate with a large swirl of light beige hummus spread evenly with a smooth texture, topped with golden roasted chickpeas scattered mainly along the edges and center. Thin slices of pale purple onion rings are placed on top, adding a delicate layer. Bright red pomegranate seeds are scattered throughout, creating small pops of glossy color. Crumbled white cheese is sprinkled across the hummus, adding a rough, crumbly texture. Fresh green chopped herbs are lightly scattered on top. A white triangular pita chip is inserted into the hummus on the right side. The plate itself is a round white ceramic with a slightly rustic rim, set on a white marbled surface with broken pita chips and another white plate partially visible nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 15-ounce can garbanzo beans, drained and peeled
½ cup tahini
2-3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, more as needed
2-3 small cloves garlic, roughly chopped
¾ teaspoon kosher salt, or more to taste
Water as needed
Toppings:
½ cup dried chickpeas, roasted until just toasty
Thinly sliced red onion
Fresh parsley
Freshly crumbled feta
Pomegranate seeds

Instructions

Step 1: In a food processor, blend the garbanzo beans alone for about 1 minute until powdery clumps form.
Step 2: Scrape down the sides and blend again until the mixture is uniform in consistency.
Step 3: Add the tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt to the processor. Blend until smooth.
Step 4: With the processor running, slowly drizzle in 1 tablespoon of water at a time until the hummus is very smooth, light, and creamy.
Step 5: Taste and adjust seasonings by adding more salt, garlic, or lemon juice if needed.
Step 6: To serve, spread the hummus on a plate and top with toasted chickpeas, sliced red onion, fresh parsley, crumbled feta, and pomegranate seeds.
Step 7: Drizzle with olive oil and serve with freshly baked pita chips.

Tips & Variations

Peeling the chickpeas before blending ensures an ultra-smooth hummus texture.
Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin to the hummus for a smoky flavor.
Swap out feta for vegan cheese or omit for a dairy-free version.
Roast the chickpeas with spices like za’atar or chili powder for extra flavor.

Storage

Store leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Before serving again, stir it well and add a little water or olive oil if it has thickened. The toppings should be added fresh each time for optimal texture and taste.

How to Serve

A deep white plate holds a swirl of creamy, light beige hummus as the base layer, topped with small roasted golden chickpeas scattered evenly over it. Thin, curved slices of pale purple-red onion are placed across the hummus, adding a fresh texture. Bright red pomegranate seeds are interspersed on top, shining with juice, along with small crumbles of white cheese. A light drizzle of olive oil brings a glossy finish to the dish. A triangular tan pita chip is partially dipped into the hummus on the right side of the plate. Around the plate, more broken pita chips lie on a white marbled texture surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make hummus without a food processor?

Yes, you can use a high-powered blender or even mash the chickpeas by hand with a fork or potato masher, though it will be less smooth. Using a food processor is best for that classic creamy texture.

How do I prevent my hummus from being grainy?

Peeling the chickpeas helps eliminate any grit, and adding water slowly while blending ensures a smooth consistency. Also, blending long enough and scraping down the sides helps create a creamy, uniform dip.