Dessert

Pesto Hummus Recipe

Byluca Carter October 28, 2025October 28, 2025

Introduction

Pesto hummus is a vibrant twist on classic hummus that combines the fresh flavors of basil and parmesan with creamy chickpeas. It’s perfect as a dip or spread for your favorite snacks and adds a delightful herbal flair to any appetizer table.

A white bowl filled with a creamy, green dip with a smooth, slightly textured surface topped with pine nuts, shredded cheese, red pepper flakes, a drizzle of olive oil, and a small basil leaf in the center. The bowl rests on a white plate surrounded by several triangular pita chips with light golden-brown spots. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 (14 ounce) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
½ cup fresh basil

⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons minced garlic
⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil (up to ½ cup for adjusting)

2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice
Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Red pepper or black pepper, for garnish

Pine nuts, for garnish
Additional grated parmesan, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, fresh basil, grated parmesan, salt, minced garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice. Pulse until the mixture reaches your desired consistency, smooth but with some texture.

Step 2: Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to create a swirl pattern on the surface. Drizzle extra virgin olive oil following the swirl.
Step 3: Garnish the hummus with a sprinkle of red or black pepper, pine nuts, and additional grated parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Serve immediately with flatbread, pita, pita chips, pretzel thins, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.

Tips & Variations

Use basil pesto instead of fresh basil and olive oil for a quicker version with a punchier flavor.
Add a handful of spinach or arugula for a milder green taste and extra nutrients.
Adjust olive oil amount to create the hummus texture that suits you best—less for thicker, more for creamier.

Toast the pine nuts lightly for enhanced nuttiness and crunch in your garnish.

Storage

Store pesto hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Before serving, you can stir in a little olive oil if it thickens or dries out. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with a thick, creamy green dip that has a slightly coarse texture. The dip is swirled on top to form a shallow depression in the center holding golden olive oil, adding a shiny surface. Scattered across the dip are pale beige pine nuts and small thin slivers of light yellow cheese, with a few tiny red chili flakes sprinkled around. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, with soft natural light enhancing the fresh colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make pesto hummus ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare pesto hummus a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

This recipe includes parmesan cheese, which is not vegan. To make it vegan, omit the parmesan or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast.