If you’re in need of a quick and easy, high-protein snack, then this High-Protein Hummus recipe is for you. It’s creamy, colorful, and a total vibe!
Homemade with chickpeas, cottage cheese, and tahini, loaded with fresh toppings, and ready in just 10 minutes. It’s perfect for snacks, parties, or anytime you want a bright and fun dish that tastes just as good as it looks.
By the way, if you’re already a fan of my Roasted Red Pepper Hummus, then you have to make this one!
WHY THIS HIGH-PROTEIN HUMMUS IS A GAME CHANGER
To say I’m obsessed with this High-Protein Hummus is an understatement. And I know you will be too soon as you make it! It’s the yummiest, most satisfying, protein-packed dip that easily comes together with the pulse of a blender (or food processor).
Typically, hummus isn’t always viewed as the most exciting snack or app, but what makes this hummus extra special is the addition of full-fat cottage cheese.
As a registered dietitian, I’m always looking for ways to amp up the health factor in any given recipe. And the cottage cheese here not only boosts the protein content, but creates the most delish rich and creamy texture.
Chickpeas, the base of the recipe, are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, making this hummus not only filling but also good for digestion. Tahini (which is made from sesame seeds) provides healthy fats and additional protein, while fresh lemon juice adds a bright, zesty flavor that balances out the richness.
By now I’m sure you’re understanding why I say this quick hummus recipe is a total game changer.
PROTEIN-PACKED HUMMUS WITH HEALTHY TOPPINGS
So, whether you’re looking for a healthy snack idea or a flavorful appetizer, this homemade hummus recipe has got you covered.
It’s incredibly easy to make, and can be customized with fresh, colorful toppings like red onion, cucumber, and Kalamata olives for an extra burst of flavor.
But this high-protein hummus isn’t just tasty—it’s also packed with health benefits. Chickpeas are known for their ability to stabilize blood sugar, making them a great option for those with an active lifestyle or anyone looking to maintain energy throughout the day. (Looking at you, my fellow working mamas and girly pops!)
Cottage cheese offers a dose of calcium and probiotics, promoting strong bones and gut health. Plus, tahini provides heart-healthy fats, while garlic adds a punch of antioxidants to the mix.
For an extra flair, top your hummus with a drizzle of olive oil, some freshly chopped herbs like dill, or a sprinkle of Aleppo pepper for a little heat.
The result is a vibrant, protein-rich dip that’s perfect for snacking, entertaining, or meal prepping. Keep this high-protein hummus stocked in your fridge, and you’ll never have to worry about reaching for unhealthy snacks again.
Try it and tag me on IG or let me know what you think in the comment section below. Enjoy!
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
- Chickpeas
- Full-fat cottage cheese
- Tahini
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Garlic clove
- Ground cumin
- Paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- Water
- Sea salt
Toppings:
- Red onion, finely diced
- Cucumber, chopped
- Kalamata olives, chopped
- Dill, chopped
- Campari tomatoes, finely diced
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- Aleppo pepper
- Lemon zest
HOW TO MAKE HIGH-PROTEIN HUMMUS
Add the chickpeas, cottage cheese, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and paprika to a food processor or blender.
Blend until smooth, adding water gradually to reach your desired consistency.
Taste and season with salt as needed.
Spread the hummus onto a serving plate or bowl, creating a slight swirl with a spoon.
Arrange the colorful toppings in sections or mix them around for a vibrant presentation. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil.
Serve with gluten-free crackers, fresh veggies (like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips), or gluten-free pita chips.
RECIPE SUBSTITUTIONS & QUESTIONS
You can’t go wrong serving with crackers, fresh veggies, and/or pita chips, but feel free to serve with whatever you prefer! Otherwise, here are a few hummus-specific swaps I haven’t tested, but you could certainly give a try:
- Chickpeas: swap chickpeas with canned white beans (like cannellini or great northern beans) for a milder taste, or even edamame for a more unique, green hummus. Note that white beans will offer a similar texture and creamy consistency.
- Cottage Cheese: vegan cream cheese or almond milk yogurt could work to keep the creamy texture and a bit of the protein content. Greek yogurt too!
- Tahini: if you’re not a fan of tahini, try using sunflower seed butter, cashew butter, or almond butter as alternatives. Though the flavor will be different with each of these, they’ll each help to maintain the creamy, rich base, and provide healthy fats.
- Lemon Juice: apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can provide a similar tangy flavor, but make sure you start with a smaller amount as vinegar is stronger than lemon juice.
- Garlic: if you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder instead (about 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon). For a milder garlic flavor, try shallots or scallions. Just be careful with garlic powder, as it can be more concentrated than fresh garlic.
- Olive Oil: avocado oil would be a great substitute, or if you prefer a richer flavor, you could try toasted sesame oil (especially if you’ve substituted tahini).
IS HUMMUS HIGH IN PROTEIN?
No, regular hummus is not considered “high” in protein, but it does contain a small amount of plant-based protein (around 2 grams per 2 tablespoons per serving) which comes from the primary ingredient, chickpeas. What makes this High-Protein Hummus recipe high in protein is the addition of the cottage cheese.
HOW CAN I MAKE THIS HUMMUS RECIPE LOWER IN FAT?
If you’re looking to reduce the fat content in this High-Protein Hummus recipe, you can substitute the full-fat cottage cheese with low-fat cottage cheese or even Greek yogurt for a tangy, lower-fat option. And/or reduce the amount of olive oil or try skipping it altogether—the texture should still be great with the other ingredients like the chickpeas and cottage cheese/yogurt.
LOOKING FOR MORE HIGH-PROTEIN SNACKS?
Honey-Glazed Garlic Chicken Wings
BBQ & Goat Cheddar Chicken Taquitos
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Protein Balls
High-Protein Hummus
Equipment
- food processor or blender
Ingredients
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- ½ cup full-fat cottage cheese
- 3 tablespoons tahini
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika, optional for extra flavor
- 1/4 cup water, adjust for consistency
- 1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
Toppings:
- Red onion, finely diced
- Cucumber, chopped
- Kalamata olives, chopped
- Dill, chopped
- Campari tomatoes, finely diced
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- Aleppo pepper
- Lemon zest
Instructions
- Add the chickpeas, cottage cheese, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and paprika to a food processor or blender.
- Blend until smooth, adding water gradually to reach your desired consistency.
- Taste and season with salt as needed.
- Spread the hummus onto a serving plate or bowl, creating a slight swirl with a spoon.
- Arrange the colorful toppings in sections or mix them around for a vibrant presentation. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil.
- Serve with gluten-free crackers, fresh veggies (like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips), or gluten-free pita chips.