Basil Pesto Hummus

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Are you ready to elevate your snacking game with a delightful twist on a classic dip? This Basil Pesto Hummus combines the creamy goodness of traditional hummus with the vibrant, aromatic flavors of fresh basil pesto. Perfect for parties, picnics, or simply enjoying at home, this recipe delivers a burst of flavor that will have everyone reaching for more! Whether you serve it with crisp veggies, pita chips, or slather it on sandwiches, this dip is sure to impress. Plus, it’s quick and easy to whip up—so let’s get started!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Imagine the nutty richness of tahini mixed with the fresh, herbaceous notes of basil, complemented by the subtle umami of Parmesan cheese. This Basil Pesto Hummus is not only a flavor explosion, but it’s also packed with nutritious ingredients, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free friends can all enjoy this tasty dip. The best part? You can whip it together in just minutes, making it the ideal appetizer for unexpected guests or an everyday treat for yourself. This recipe is bound to become a favorite!

Ingredients

Here’s what you will need to create this delectable Basil Pesto Hummus:

• 1 – 15 oz can of garbanzo beans (chickpeas), drained and rinsed
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup water
• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted
• 1 clove garlic

Make sure to use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture. You may also want to keep some extra pine nuts for garnish!

How To Make Basil Pesto Hummus

Creating your Basil Pesto Hummus is a breeze when you follow these simple steps!

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Drain and rinse the garbanzo beans, and measure out the fresh basil, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, water, tahini, pine nuts, and garlic.

Step 2: Toast the Pine Nuts

In a small skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts until they are golden and fragrant. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to burn them! Once done, set them aside to cool.

Step 3: Blend the Ingredients

In a food processor, combine the drained and rinsed garbanzo beans, fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, water, tahini, toasted pine nuts, and the clove of garlic.

Step 4: Process Until Smooth

Pulse the mixture for about 1-2 minutes until it’s creamy and smooth. If the hummus is too thick for your liking, add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Give your hummus a taste! You might want to add a pinch of salt or some extra cheese, depending on your preferences. Blend again for a few seconds to combine any adjustments.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Transfer the Basil Pesto Hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle with some olive oil, sprinkle with extra pine nuts if desired, and serve with your choice of fresh veggies, pita chips, or crusty bread!

Expert Tips

• Ensure your tahini is well-mixed before adding it to the food processor for a smoother dip.
• Taste as you go—adjust the garlic and cheese levels based on your taste preferences.
• Use a high-powered blender for an extra creamy texture if you don’t have a food processor.
• For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Variations and Customizations

There are plenty of ways to make this Basil Pesto Hummus your own. Here are some ideas:

• Swap out the Parmesan for nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
• Add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist that complements the basil beautifully.
• Incorporate avocado for extra creaminess and a healthy dose of fats.
• Mix in a dash of lemon juice for a refreshing zing.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely because it’s so good!), store your Basil Pesto Hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 4-5 days. To keep it fresh, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing the container. You can also freeze the hummus for up to 3 months; just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

FAQ

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Absolutely! If you prefer using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and then cook them until tender. One can of chickpeas is approximately 1.5 cups of cooked chickpeas, so plan accordingly.

Is there a substitute for tahini?

Yes, you can substitute tahini with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor profile. Greek yogurt could also work if you’re looking for a creamy texture.

How can I make this hummus spicier?

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeño to the food processor along with the other ingredients.

Can I use store-bought pesto instead of making my own?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a quality store-bought pesto will work just fine, saving you a step in the process. Just blend it in with the other ingredients for a quick and easy dip.

Conclusion

This Basil Pesto Hummus is a fresh take on a classic that’s bursting with flavor and healthy ingredients. Whether you serve it at your next gathering or enjoy it all by yourself, you’ll find that it’s both satisfying and versatile. So the next time you’re in need of a delicious dip, reach for this recipe and watch it disappear in no time! Happy dipping!