1 ¼ cups (8 ¾ ounces) green lentils, picked over and rinsed
1 teaspoon plus 2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
8 cups water
½ cup plus 2 teaspoons lemon juice (from approximately 4 lemons), divided
4 cloves garlic
⅔ cup tahini
¼ teaspoon ground cumin
¾ cup fresh parsley, chopped
½ cup fresh dill sprigs, chopped
½ cup kalamata olives, pitted and thinly sliced
4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
2 teaspoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
2 tablespoons toasted sunflower seeds
Instructions
Cook the Lentils: In a large saucepan, combine the green lentils, 1 teaspoon of salt, and water. Bring to a boil, skimming off any foam that rises to the surface. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until lentils are very tender, about 25 to 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Lemon-Garlic Base: In a food processor, pulse the lemon juice and garlic with 2 teaspoons of salt until a coarse puree forms, about 20 pulses. Let steep for at least 10 minutes or up to 30 minutes.
Blend the Hummus: Add tahini to the lemon-garlic mixture in the processor and process until smooth, about 45 to 60 seconds. Scrape down the sides, then add cumin and cooked lentils. Process until very smooth, about 4 minutes. Season with salt to taste, adjusting consistency with up to 2 tablespoons of water if needed.
Prepare the Herb and Olive Topping: In a small bowl, toss together parsley, dill, olives, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 2 teaspoons of lemon juice. Season with salt to taste.
Assemble the Hummus: Transfer the hummus to a large bowl, spreading it out with the back of a spoon to create a well in the center. Spoon the herb-olive mixture into the well. Sprinkle toasted pepitas and sunflower seeds over the top and drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
Recipe Notes
Cooking lentils from scratch is recommended for optimal texture and flavor.
For a smoother hummus, adjust the consistency with additional water as needed.
The herb and olive topping adds freshness and complexity; feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or olives.