If you’re searching for a dip that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, this Savory Pumpkin Hummus Recipe is bound to become a new favorite. Creamy chickpeas blend effortlessly with smooth pumpkin purée and a harmonious mix of spices, creating a uniquely autumnal twist on traditional hummus. Whether you’re welcoming friends over or simply treating yourself to an easy snack, this vibrant dip brings warmth, zest, and just the right hint of spice to every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple pantry staples to create a complex, comforting flavor. Each ingredient plays a crucial role — from the earthy pumpkin to the subtle spice blend, together they form a luscious texture and vibrant taste that will surprise and delight you.
- Chickpeas: The creamy base that adds protein and body; don’t forget to reserve some liquid for perfect texture.
- Lemon juice: Adds bright acidity to balance the richness.
- Tahini paste: Brings a nutty depth and softness.
- Olive oil: Enhances the silky consistency and adds smooth flavor.
- Garlic: Freshly minced for a punch of savory aroma.
- Pumpkin purée: The star of the show adding sweetness, color, and that seasonal vibe.
- Cumin: Offers a warm earthiness balancing the pumpkin’s natural sweetness.
- Paprika: Adds subtle smoky warmth.
- Salt: Essential for pulling all the flavors together.
- Ground sage: Imparts a gentle herbal note reminiscent of fall.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): A pinch for those who like a little heat.
- Cinnamon: Gives a surprise layer of cozy spice.
- Roasted and salted pumpkin seeds (optional): For a delightful crunch topping when serving.
How to Make Savory Pumpkin Hummus Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Chickpeas
Start by draining and rinsing a can of chickpeas, but make sure you reserve about â…“ cup of the chickpea liquid. This starchy water is magic when it comes to adjusting the final hummus texture, helping it become silky smooth without watering down the flavor.
Step 2: Blend the Base
In your food processor or blender, combine the chickpeas, fresh lemon juice, tahini, olive oil, and minced garlic. Pulse these together about 10 to 20 times until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. This initial blend ensures the flavors begin to marry and creates a good foundation for the pumpkin addition.
Step 3: Add Pumpkin and Seasonings
Now, add the luscious pumpkin purée along with cumin, paprika, salt, sage, red pepper flakes if you’re using them, and cinnamon. Also add 2 tablespoons of water to help everything blend smoothly. Blend the mixture for 1 to 2 minutes, stopping every 30 seconds to scrape down the sides for an even mix. This step transforms the coarse base into a beautifully smooth and creamy pumpkin-infused hummus.
Step 4: Adjust Consistency
If the hummus feels too thick, gradually add more of the reserved chickpea liquid or plain water, just a tablespoon at a time. This careful balancing act is what makes the difference between ordinary and perfectly smooth, luxurious hummus that’s easy to scoop and spread.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Transfer your hummus to a serving bowl, drizzle with a little extra olive oil, and sprinkle with roasted and salted pumpkin seeds if you want a festive crunch. This final touch makes the dish even more inviting and adds layers of texture that will wow your guests or family.
How to Serve Savory Pumpkin Hummus Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of roasted pumpkin seeds isn’t just pretty, it adds a wonderful crunch and nuttiness. You can also finish with a dash of smoked paprika or drizzle of good olive oil to elevate the look and flavor effortlessly. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can brighten the presentation and add a fresh herbal contrast.
Side Dishes
This Savory Pumpkin Hummus Recipe is incredibly versatile. Serve it alongside crisp vegetable sticks such as carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers for a healthy snack, or offer it with warm pita bread, pita chips, or crisp crackers for a crowd-pleasing party appetizer. It also pairs beautifully with grains or roasted vegetables as part of a larger meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the hummus in a clear glass bowl with sautéed kale or caramelized onions on top for a visually stunning dip platter. You can also spread it inside a warm pita and add roasted veggies for a quick, seasonal sandwich. Or use it as a creamy sauce to drizzle over grain bowls or roasted sweet potatoes for a delicious twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your wonderful Savory Pumpkin Hummus Recipe keeps well stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep the surface smooth and pressed down to avoid extra air exposure, and refresh with a quick stir and drizzle of olive oil before serving again.
Freezing
If you want to stash some for later, you can freeze pumpkin hummus in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge. You might notice a slight change in texture, so stir it well and add a splash of water or olive oil to bring back its creamy goodness.
Reheating
Hummus is best served chilled or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t usually necessary. However, if you prefer it slightly warm, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes or warm gently in a microwave for a few seconds, stirring occasionally to ensure even temperature.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin purée?
Absolutely! If you use fresh pumpkin, roast it first until tender, then blend until smooth. This will give you a fresh flavor and thicker texture, so you may need to adjust liquid amounts as you blend your hummus.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans and gluten-free diets?
Yes! All the ingredients in this Savory Pumpkin Hummus Recipe are naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a great option for accommodating various dietary preferences.
How spicy is the hummus with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a mild, warming heat that complements the pumpkin and spices. If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to omit them entirely or adjust to your taste.
Can I make this hummus without a food processor?
While a food processor or high-speed blender is ideal for achieving that perfectly smooth texture, you can mash the chickpeas and pumpkin by hand for a chunkier, rustic version. Just be sure to finely mince the garlic and whisk in liquids thoroughly.
What are some other ways to use leftover pumpkin hummus?
Beyond dipping, use it as a spread on sandwiches or wraps, swirl into soups for added creaminess, or dollop onto grain bowls and roasted vegetables for a flavorful boost.
Final Thoughts
Whip up this Savory Pumpkin Hummus Recipe anytime you want a cozy yet vibrant dish to share or savor solo. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate seasonal flavors with a heartfelt twist on a classic favorite. I promise it will brighten your snacking and bring smiles around the table, so go ahead and enjoy every creamy, spiced bite!
Print
Savory Pumpkin Hummus Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dip
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Savory Pumpkin Hummus is a flavorful twist on the classic Middle Eastern dip, combining creamy chickpeas with smooth pumpkin purée and aromatic spices like cumin, paprika, sage, and cinnamon. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for fall-themed appetizers or healthy snacks, topped with roasted pumpkin seeds and a drizzle of olive oil for added texture and taste.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed (reserve â…“ cup liquid)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
- 2 tablespoons tahini paste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for serving)
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
Pumpkin and Spices
- ¾ cup pumpkin purée
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- â…› teaspoon ground sage
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- â…› teaspoon cinnamon
Garnish
- Roasted and salted pumpkin seeds (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Drain chickpeas: Drain the liquid from the canned chickpeas, reserving â…“ cup of the liquid for later use.
- Combine base ingredients: In a food processor or high-speed blender, add the drained chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini paste, olive oil, and minced garlic. Pulse 10-20 times until the mixture has a coarse crumb texture.
- Add pumpkin and spices: Add the pumpkin purée, cumin, paprika, salt, ground sage, red pepper flakes (if using), cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons of water to the processor. Blend for 1-2 minutes, pausing every 30 seconds to scrape down the sides to ensure even mixing.
- Adjust consistency: Gradually add more water or the reserved chickpea liquid, one tablespoon at a time, blending until the hummus reaches your desired creamy consistency.
- Serve and garnish: Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl, drizzle with additional olive oil, and top with roasted and salted pumpkin seeds. Serve with vegetables, crackers, or pita chips.
Notes
- Use canned chickpeas for convenience and save the liquid to adjust hummus consistency.
- Adjust seasoning and spices according to taste preference.
- The hummus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Substitute pumpkin purée with butternut squash purée if desired.
- For a smoother texture, peel the skins off the chickpeas before blending.
