Basil Pesto Hummus with Pita Bread is a creamy and vibrant dip combining the classic richness of hummus with the fresh, herby brightness of basil pesto. Finished with olive oil and colorful spices, it is the perfect pairing for warm, soft pita bread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Basil Pesto Hummus brings a delightful twist to traditional hummus, offering the earthy creaminess of chickpeas enriched with the fresh, aromatic flavor of basil pesto. It is incredibly easy to make, vibrant in presentation, and perfect as a snack, appetizer, or addition to a Mediterranean meal spread. Quick to prepare and full of wholesome ingredients, it is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup basil pesto
- 2–4 tablespoons water (to adjust consistency)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin (optional)
- Olive oil, for garnish
- 1 green olive, for garnish
- Dried parsley, paprika, and sumac for decoration
- Warm pita bread, for serving
Directions
- In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and basil pesto.
- Blend until smooth, adding water a tablespoon at a time to achieve your desired creaminess.
- Season with salt and cumin (if using), blending again to combine.
- Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Smooth the top and create a shallow well in the center.
- Drizzle with olive oil, place a green olive in the center, and garnish with stripes of dried parsley, paprika, and sumac.
- Serve with warm pita bread on the side.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 220 kcal per serving
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the hummus for a mild heat.
- Nutty Twist: Blend in a tablespoon of pine nuts for extra richness.
- Different Herbs: Substitute the basil pesto with cilantro or arugula pesto for a different herbal flavor.
- Cheesy Addition: Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese into the pesto for a savory depth.
- Lemon Zest: Add a little lemon zest for extra brightness.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Stir before serving to recombine if separation occurs. Hummus can be served cold or at room temperature; reheating is not necessary.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pesto?
Yes, homemade pesto enhances the freshness and flavor of the hummus.
What can I use instead of tahini?
You can substitute with cashew butter, almond butter, or even a bit of Greek yogurt for creaminess.
Is this hummus vegan?
Yes, as long as the pesto used is dairy-free, the hummus is completely vegan.
Can I use dried chickpeas?
Yes, soak and cook dried chickpeas until tender before using them in the recipe.
How do I make the hummus smoother?
Peel the chickpeas by gently rubbing them after draining, or blend the hummus for a longer period, adding water gradually.
What should I serve with this hummus besides pita?
Fresh vegetables such as cucumber, carrots, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes pair wonderfully.
Can I freeze basil pesto hummus?
It is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be frozen for up to 2 months in an airtight container. Thaw and stir well before serving.
How do I adjust the thickness?
Add water or olive oil a tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is achieved.
What is the purpose of the cumin?
Cumin adds a subtle earthy depth that complements the chickpeas and basil flavors.
Can I make this hummus without garlic?
Yes, simply omit the garlic if you prefer a milder flavor.
Conclusion
Basil Pesto Hummus with Pita Bread is a fresh, vibrant take on traditional hummus, combining creamy chickpeas and aromatic pesto into a dip that is as beautiful as it is delicious. Quick to prepare and full of healthy ingredients, it is perfect for appetizers, picnics, or anytime you need a flavorful, wholesome snack.
PrintBasil Pesto Hummus with Pita Bread
Indulge in this creamy and vibrant Basil Pesto Hummus with Pita Bread, a fresh twist on classic hummus, infused with basil pesto, spices, and olive oil — a colorful and delicious appetizer perfect for gatherings or healthy snacking. #pestohummus #hummus
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer, Dip
- Method: Blending (No-Cook)
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Middle Eastern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
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1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
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1/4 cup tahini
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2 tablespoons lemon juice
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/4 cup basil pesto
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2-4 tablespoons water (to adjust consistency)
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon cumin (optional)
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Olive oil, for garnish
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1 green olive, for garnish
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Dried parsley, paprika, and sumac, for decoration
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Warm pita bread, for serving
Instructions
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In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and basil pesto.
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Blend until smooth, adding water one tablespoon at a time to reach your desired creamy consistency.
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Season with salt and cumin (if using), blending again to combine.
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Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Smooth the surface and create a shallow well in the center.
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Drizzle with olive oil, place a green olive in the center, and decorate with dried parsley, paprika, and sumac.
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Serve with warm pita bread on the side.
Notes
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For extra basil flavor, add an additional tablespoon of pesto before serving.
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This hummus pairs beautifully with veggie sticks or crackers as well.
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Make it ahead — it stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days.