when it comes to snacking, boring and bland is simply out of style. Enter sun-dried tomato basil hummus-a vibrant, savory twist that transforms teh humble chickpea spread into a burst of Mediterranean sunshine. This flavorful fusion combines the rich tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes with the fragrant, herbaceous notes of fresh basil, creating a dip that’s as colorful as it is tasty.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering, seeking a nutritious snack, or looking to elevate your appetizer game, our guide will show you how to brighten your snack time with this irresistible hummus variation. Ready to blend up something unforgettable? Let’s dive in!
brighten Your Snack: Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Hummus Guide invites you to uncover a delightful twist on a beloved classic. This hummus awakens your palate with the sun-kissed sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes harmoniously balanced by the fresh, aromatic burst of basil.
Born from Mediterranean inspiration but crafted for today’s health-conscious snackers, this vibrant flavor fusion transforms your everyday dip into an unusual treat. Whether you’re entertaining guests or craving a nourishing bite, this recipe offers a fresh, colorful option to elevate your snack game.
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (optional warming of chickpeas)
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield
Serves 6 as a hearty snack or appetizer
Difficulty Level
Easy – Perfect for beginners and seasoned home cooks alike
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas,drained and rinsed
- 1/3 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes,drained
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves,tightly packed
- 1/4 cup tahini (sesame seed paste)
- 2 cloves garlic,minced
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt,adjust to taste
- 2 to 4 tablespoons cold water,for desired consistency
- Freshly cracked black pepper,to finish
Instructions
- Prepare the chickpeas: For an extra creamy texture,optionally warm your rinsed chickpeas in a microwave or briefly sauté in a dry pan for 3-5 minutes until slightly softened. This helps the hummus blend smoother.
- Blend base ingredients: In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice. Pulse until roughly combined, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Add olive oil and seasonings: With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil, then add smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Blend until the mixture is creamy but still has vibrant flecks of tomato and basil visible.
- Adjust texture: With the processor on low speed,add cold water one tablespoon at a time until you reach a silky,scoopable consistency. Be cautious not to over-thin; you want a balance that holds but is velvety smooth.
- Final taste and tweak: Sample your hummus and tweak seasoning accordingly-add more lemon juice for brightness or a pinch more smoked paprika to amplify the earthiness. Pulse briefly again to incorporate any additions.
- Chill before serving: For best color and flavor development, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This also helps intensify the harmonious notes of sun-dried tomatoes and basil.
Tips for Success with Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Hummus
- Sun-dried tomato choice: Use oil-packed tomatoes instead of dry varieties for richer, non-grainy texture. If using dry-packed,rehydrate in warm water for 15 minutes and drain well.
- Fresh basil timing: Add basil near the end of blending for a vibrant green hue and aromatic pop. Over-blending can dull the fresh flavor.
- Tahini quality: Opt for creamy, well-stirred tahini to avoid bitterness; this ensures a smooth, nutty base.
- Make-ahead friendly: This hummus keeps beautifully in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge. Let it come to room temperature before scooping if chilled too long.
- adjust consistency: For dipping veggies, keep it thick; for spreading on toast, thin slightly with water or olive oil.
Creative Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Snack Experience
Bring your hummus board to life by gifting it a colorful stage:
- Drizzle a swirl of extra virgin olive oil atop, sprinkled with flaky sea salt and cracked pepper.
- garnish with basil chiffonade and tiny diced sun-dried tomatoes for visual appeal and extra bursts of flavor.
- Pair with warm pita chips,crunchy radishes,parchment-roasted carrots,or crisp cucumber ribbons for a fresh textural contrast.
- Use as a vibrant sandwich spread layered with grilled vegetables or herby falafel in your lunchbox.
- Brighten soups or grilled meats by adding dollops of hummus alongside, enhancing both color and complexity.
| Nutritional Info (Per Serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
For more fresh Mediterranean-inspired dips, explore our Mediterranean Dips Guide. Enhance your culinary knowledge with trusted tips from the Epicurious hummus techniques to perfect your hummus craft.
Q&A
Q: What makes sun-dried tomato basil hummus different from customary hummus?
A: Sun-dried tomato basil hummus brings a vibrant twist to classic hummus by infusing it with the rich, tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes and the fresh, aromatic bite of basil. This combination elevates the creamy chickpea base into a flavor-packed, colorful snack that awakens the palate.
Q: How can I easily make sun-dried tomato basil hummus at home?
A: Start with your favorite basic hummus recipe or store-bought hummus for convenience. blend in sun-dried tomatoes (preferably packed in oil), a handful of fresh basil leaves, a splash of lemon juice, and a pinch of garlic powder.Blend until smooth and taste,adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Q: What are the best ways to serve sun-dried tomato basil hummus?
A: This hummus shines as a dip for fresh veggies like crunchy carrots,cucumbers,and bell peppers. It’s also a fantastic spread for sandwiches and wraps, or a flavorful dollop atop roasted potatoes or grilled vegetables for an extra pop of color and taste.
Q: Can I substitute sun-dried tomatoes with other ingredients?
A: Sun-dried tomatoes provide a unique depth of sweet and tangy flavor that’s hard to duplicate, but if unavailable, consider using roasted red peppers for a milder, smoky note. Just keep in mind the end flavor will be different, so adjust other seasonings accordingly.
Q: How do I store sun-dried tomato basil hummus to keep it fresh?
A: Store your hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It typically stays fresh for up to 5 days. To keep it vibrant, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing-it helps preserve moisture and flavor.
Q: Is sun-dried tomato basil hummus suitable for special diets?
A: Absolutely! This hummus is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and packed with plant-based protein and fiber. It’s a wholesome choice for anyone looking to brighten their snack options while sticking to clean, nutritious ingredients.
Q: What nutritional benefits does sun-dried tomato basil hummus offer?
A: Combining chickpeas with antioxidant-rich sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil results in a snack that’s not only delicious but also nutritious. You get a good dose of fiber, plant protein, vitamins A and C, plus heart-healthy fats from olive oil.
Q: Can I customize this hummus for extra kick or creaminess?
A: Definitely! For extra creaminess, add a spoonful of tahini or a splash of olive oil during blending. If you like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika will add warmth without overpowering the fresh flavors.
Concluding Remarks
As you embark on your culinary adventures with sun-dried tomato basil hummus, let this vibrant dip be your passport to a world of flavor and nourishment. Whether spread thick on warm pita,dolloped onto crisp veggies,or stirred into grain bowls,its rich,tangy brightness promises to elevate every snack time. Brightening your snack isn’t just about taste-it’s about embracing ingredients that inspire creativity and vitality in your everyday eating. So go ahead, blend, savor, and share this sunny sensation, and watch how a simple hummus can transform ordinary moments into deliciously memorable experiences.
