Pesto hummus, oh how you surprise me! It’s like a Mediterranean dance party in a bowl—zesty, nutty, and vibrant. I stumbled upon this concoction during a late-night craving, and let me tell you, it’s now a staple for spontaneous gatherings or even just a cozy night in with a good book.
Steps
- Begin by draining a 15oz can of chickpeas and placing them in a food processor. Add 1/4 cup each of lemon juice, olive oil, tahini, and basil pesto along with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder or one clove of fresh garlic.
- Blend the mixture until it becomes smooth. If needed, adjust the consistency by adding a bit of water, olive oil, or the liquid from the chickpeas, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired smoothness is achieved.
- Once the hummus reaches the desired texture, transfer it to a serving dish. Optionally, garnish with a few whole chickpeas, a drizzle of olive oil, or an extra dollop of pesto for added flavor and presentation.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup basil pesto
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder or 1 clove fresh garlic
Nutritional Values
Calories: 851.12kcal | Carbohydrates: 58.8g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 61.4g | Sodium: 1343.92mg | Fiber: 19.12g
FAQ
- Can I use a blender instead of a food processor to make pesto hummus?
- While a food processor is generally recommended for making hummus due to its thickness, a high-powered blender might also work. Just ensure your blender is capable of handling dense mixtures.
- What are some ways to enjoy pesto hummus?
- Pesto hummus can be used for dipping vegetables, spreading on sandwiches, or even as a topping for pasta. It’s a versatile addition to many dishes.
- Is it necessary to use fresh garlic in the hummus?
- Fresh garlic is not mandatory; you can use garlic powder instead. The pesto already contains garlic, so adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Can I use store-bought hummus instead of making my own?
- Absolutely! You can stir about 1/4 cup of pesto into a 16oz container of store-bought hummus for a quick and easy version.
- How can I thin out the hummus if it’s too thick?
- If your hummus is too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of water, olive oil, or the liquid from the chickpeas until the desired consistency is reached.
Tips
- Use a Food Processor: For a smoother texture, use a food processor instead of a blender, as hummus tends to be too thick for most blenders unless you have a high-powered model.
- Adjust the Consistency: If your hummus is too thick, gradually add water, olive oil, or reserved chickpea liquid, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve your desired smoothness.
- Customize Garlic Flavor: Use garlic powder for a milder taste, as it’s gentler on the stomach. If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, substitute with a fresh clove.
- Quick Store-Bought Hack: For a fast and easy version, mix ¼ cup of basil pesto into a 16oz container of store-bought hummus. This is a convenient alternative if you’re short on time.
Equipment
- Food Processor
