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Pesto Hummus Recipe

4.4 from 91 reviews

This vibrant and creamy Pesto Hummus combines the classic flavors of basil pesto with traditional chickpeas, creating a delicious and versatile dip perfect for snacking or entertaining. Ready in minutes using a food processor, this recipe blends fresh basil, parmesan cheese, garlic, and lemon juice with chickpeas and olive oil for a flavorful spread that pairs excellently with pita, crackers, or fresh vegetables.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 (14 ounce) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • ½ cup fresh basil leaves
  • ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons minced garlic
  • ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil (can add up to ½ cup for desired consistency)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice

Garnish

  • Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
  • Red pepper flakes or freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pine nuts, toasted
  • Grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the ingredients: Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas thoroughly. Wash and dry the fresh basil leaves. Mince the garlic if not pre-minced. This ensures all fresh flavors are ready to be processed.
  2. Blend the pesto hummus: In a food processor, add the drained chickpeas, fresh basil, grated parmesan, salt, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil (start with ⅓ cup), and fresh lemon juice. Pulse the mixture until it reaches your desired smooth or slightly chunky consistency, adding more olive oil if a thinner texture is preferred.
  3. Transfer and garnish: Spoon the pesto hummus into a serving bowl, then use a spatula or spoon to swirl the top surface. Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the top in the swirl pattern. Garnish the hummus with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or black pepper, toasted pine nuts, and additional grated parmesan cheese for an enticing presentation.
  4. Serve and enjoy: Serve the pesto hummus as a dip alongside flatbread, pita bread, pita chips, pretzel thins, crackers, or a variety of fresh vegetables like carrot sticks and cucumber slices for a healthy appetizer or snack.

Notes

  • For nuttier flavor, lightly toast the pine nuts before garnishing.
  • Adjust olive oil quantity to achieve the preferred consistency of hummus.
  • Use fresh basil for the best pesto flavor; dried basil will not provide the same taste.
  • Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • For a dairy-free version, omit parmesan or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.

Keywords: pesto hummus, basil hummus, easy hummus recipe, Mediterranean dip, healthy snack, vegetarian dip, basil recipe