why make this recipe
Roasted Garlic Butternut Hummus is a delightful twist on traditional hummus. It combines the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the rich flavor of garlic, creating a creamy and tasty dip. This recipe is perfect for snacking, as a spread, or even as part of a meal. Not only does it taste fantastic, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Butternut squash is a great source of vitamins, while chickpeas add protein and fiber. You’ll impress your friends and family with this delicious and healthy option!
how to make Roasted Garlic Butternut Hummus
Ingredients:
For Roasting:
- 1 small Butternut Squash (about 2-2.5 lbs or 1 kg), peeled, seeded, and cubed into 1-inch pieces
- 1 whole head of Garlic
- 3 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil, divided
- ½ teaspoon Sea Salt
- ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
For the Hummus:
- 1 can (15-ounce) Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans), rinsed and drained
- ⅔ cup high-quality, runny Tahini
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed Lemon Juice (from 1-2 large lemons)
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
- ½ teaspoon Smoked Paprika (plus more for garnish)
- ½ teaspoon Sea Salt (or more, to taste)
- 3-5 tablespoons Ice Cold Water
For Garnish (Optional but Recommended):
- Drizzle of high-quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Sprinkle of Smoked Paprika or Za’atar
- 2 tablespoons Toasted Pumpkin Seeds (Pepitas)
- 1 tablespoon chopped Fresh Parsley or Cilantro
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Place the cubed butternut squash on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, ½ teaspoon of sea salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Toss well to coat the squash evenly.
- Cut the top ¼ inch off the whole head of garlic to expose the cloves. Drizzle the exposed cloves with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Wrap the garlic head in a small piece of aluminum foil loosely.
- Place the foil-wrapped garlic packet on the baking sheet with the butternut squash. Roast in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender with golden-brown edges and the garlic is soft and fragrant.
- After roasting, let the squash and garlic cool for about 10-15 minutes to avoid steam buildup while blending.
- In a large food processor, combine tahini and fresh lemon juice, processing for 60 seconds until thick and pale.
- Squeeze the roasted garlic directly into the food processor and add the roasted butternut squash, chickpeas, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and ½ teaspoon of sea salt. Blend for 2-3 minutes until thick and pasty.
- Scrape down the bowl, then with the processor running on low, stream in 3 tablespoons of ice-cold water. Continue to process for another 2-3 minutes until smooth. Add more water if needed for desired consistency.
- Taste the hummus and adjust the flavors as needed with more salt or lemon juice.
- Serve the hummus in a bowl, garnish as desired, and enjoy!
how to serve Roasted Garlic Butternut Hummus
Roasted Garlic Butternut Hummus is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Serve it with pita bread, vegetable sticks, or crackers for a perfect snack. It also works great as a spread on sandwiches or wraps. Create a colorful platter by adding fresh veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and cucumber to dip alongside the hummus. For a special touch, drizzle some olive oil on top and sprinkle with smoked paprika.
how to store Roasted Garlic Butternut Hummus
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The hummus can be kept for about 3-5 days. Before serving, give it a good stir to refresh it. If the hummus thickens in the fridge, you can mix in a bit of water or olive oil to smooth it out again.
tips to make Roasted Garlic Butternut Hummus
- Make sure to roast the butternut squash until it’s nicely caramelized for the best flavor.
- Using ice-cold water is key for achieving that creamy, fluffy texture.
- Taste and adjust your ingredients. Every batch can vary based on the sweetness of the squash or the strength of the garlic.
- Don’t skip the tahini; it adds creaminess and depth to the hummus.
variation
You can customize the hummus by adding different spices or herbs. For a spicier kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes. If you prefer a sweeter hummus, mix in a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey. You can also experiment with other roasted veggies like sweet potatoes or carrots for different flavors.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes, you can use frozen butternut squash. Just thaw it before roasting, and you may need to adjust the cooking time.
2. Is this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Roasted Garlic Butternut Hummus is completely vegan and a great option for plant-based diets.
3. Can I make this hummus in advance?
Yes, this hummus can be made in advance. The flavors often improve after a day in the fridge. Just be sure to store it properly in an airtight container.