Name: Pesto Hummus
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 tbsp tahini; 2 garlic cloves; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought); Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2–4 tbsp water (to adjust consistency); 1 tbsp pine nuts or extra pesto, for garnish (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines two favorites—classic hummus and fresh pesto—into one irresistible dip. It’s creamy, nutty, and bursting with basil flavor. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or spread for sandwiches, pesto hummus is easy to make in just minutes with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chickpeas (canned or cooked)
Tahini
Garlic cloves
Lemon juice
Olive oil
Basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
Salt and black pepper
Water (to adjust consistency)
Pine nuts or extra pesto (for garnish, optional)

Directions

Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and pesto.
Process until smooth, drizzling in olive oil as it blends.
Add water, a little at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil or pesto, and garnish with pine nuts if desired.

Servings and timing

Serves 6–8 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

Extra Creamy: Add Greek yogurt for a smoother, tangier hummus.
Nutty Flavor: Stir in toasted pine nuts or almonds for added crunch.
Spicy Twist: Blend in red pepper flakes or a spoonful of harissa.
Vegan-Friendly: Use a dairy-free pesto if avoiding cheese.
Green Boost: Add extra spinach or kale for more greens.

Storage/Reheating

Store pesto hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freeze for up to 2 months—thaw in the fridge overnight and stir before serving.
No reheating needed; serve chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, store-bought pesto works great for convenience.

Can I make this without tahini?

Yes, substitute with extra olive oil or Greek yogurt, though flavor will differ.

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, just cook them until soft before blending.

What goes best with pesto hummus?

Pita bread, crackers, veggie sticks, or as a spread for wraps and sandwiches.

Can I make it nut-free?

Yes, use a nut-free pesto or make your own without pine nuts.

How do I make the hummus smoother?

Peel the chickpeas before blending for extra creaminess.

Can I use other beans?

Yes, white beans or cannellini beans make a delicious substitute.

How do I make it more garlicky?

Add roasted garlic for a deeper, sweeter flavor.

Is pesto hummus vegan?

Yes, if you use a vegan pesto that doesn’t contain cheese.

Can I freeze pesto hummus?

Yes, it freezes well—just thaw and stir before serving.

Conclusion

Pesto Hummus is a fresh and flavorful dip that takes classic hummus to a new level with the addition of basil pesto. Quick, versatile, and delicious, it’s perfect for parties, meal prep, or simply enjoying as a healthy snack anytime.