Image Credit – Kelsey
Craving that creamy, garlicky dip but following a paleo lifestyle? You’re in luck — Paleo Hummus is here to satisfy your snack cravings without breaking the rules. While traditional hummus relies on chickpeas (a non-paleo legume), there are delicious, clean-eating alternatives made from ingredients like cauliflower, zucchini, or avocado. These veggie-based versions mimic the texture and flavor of classic hummus while keeping things totally paleo-friendly. Whether you’re dipping raw veggies, topping off a wrap, or adding flavor to your favorite bowl, Paleo Hummus is the perfect go-to for healthy, guilt-free snacking.
Paleo Hummus Recipes: Delicious Dips Without the Chickpeas
Traditional hummus might be off the menu for those following a strict paleo diet (thanks to chickpeas being legumes), but that doesn’t mean you have to give up that creamy, savory dip entirely. With a few clever swaps, you can recreate the texture and flavor of classic hummus — all while staying 100% paleo.
Here are some tasty, satisfying Paleo Hummus recipes you’ll want to whip up again and again:
1. Cauliflower Hummus
Why it works: Cauliflower mimics the smooth, creamy consistency of chickpeas, making it the ultimate paleo substitute.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, chopped and steamed
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and cumin to taste
Instructions:
- Steam the cauliflower until soft, then let it cool slightly.
- Add all ingredients to a food processor and blend until smooth.
- Adjust seasoning and serve with sliced veggies or paleo crackers.
2. Zucchini Hummus
Why it works: Raw zucchini creates a light, refreshing base, perfect for summer snacking.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini, peeled and chopped
- 1/3 cup tahini
- 1 garlic clove
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Combine everything in a blender or food processor.
- Blend until creamy, then chill before serving for best flavor.
3. Avocado Hummus
Why it works: Avocado brings healthy fats and a luscious texture that pairs well with traditional hummus flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe avocados
- 2 tbsp tahini
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 garlic clove
- Salt and cumin to taste
Instructions:
- Mash or blend all ingredients until completely smooth.
- Sprinkle with paprika or chopped cilantro before serving.
Paleo-Friendly Dipping Ideas:
- Sliced cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers
- Plantain chips
- Almond flour crackers
- Sweet potato rounds
Who says you need chickpeas to make amazing hummus? With these paleo hummus recipes, you can enjoy your favorite creamy dip guilt-free and completely in line with your clean-eating lifestyle. Whether you go with cauliflower for a light, neutral base, zucchini for a fresh, hydrating option, or avocado for a rich and satisfying twist, each recipe brings its own unique flavor and nutritional benefits. Plus, they’re all super quick to whip up and perfect for storing as part of your weekly meal prep. So the next time you’re in the mood for hummus — or just something to pair with veggies or paleo crackers — reach for one of these simple and satisfying paleo versions. Have you tried any of these hummus alternatives or come up with your own creative version? Let us know in the comments — we’d love to hear what your paleo-friendly hummus looks like!
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use instead of chickpeas to make paleo hummus?
Since chickpeas are legumes and not paleo-friendly, popular alternatives include cauliflower, zucchini, and avocado. These ingredients offer similar creamy textures and pair well with classic hummus flavors like lemon, garlic, and tahini.
Is hummus allowed on the paleo diet?
Traditional hummus made with chickpeas is not considered paleo. However, you can easily make hummus-like dips using paleo-friendly ingredients. Just swap out the legumes for veggies like cauliflower or avocado, and you’ve got a dip that fits perfectly into your paleo meal plan.
How long does paleo hummus last in the fridge?
Paleo hummus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days, depending on the ingredients used. Cauliflower and zucchini hummus may stay fresh a bit longer, while avocado-based dips are best enjoyed within 2–3 days to prevent browning.
Cauliflower Hummus Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, chopped and steamed
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp tbsp olive oil
- Salt and cumin to taste
Instructions
- Steam the cauliflower until soft, then let it cool slightly.
- Add all ingredients to a food processor and blend until smooth.
- Adjust seasoning and serve with sliced veggies or paleo crackers.
Zucchini Hummus
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp medium zucchini, peeled and chopped
- 1/3 cup tahini
- 1 garlic clove
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 tbsp paprika
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Combine everything in a blender or food processor.
- Blend until creamy, then chill before serving for best flavor.
Avocado Hummus
Ingredients
- 2 ripe avocados
- 2 tbsp tahini
- 1 Juice of lime
- 1 garlic clove
- Salt and cumin to taste
Instructions
- Mash or blend all ingredients until completely smooth.
- Sprinkle with paprika or chopped cilantro before serving.
