Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Stovetop · Storage: Up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Quick Answer
Create a comforting and modern Creamy Hummus Pasta by combining cooked pasta with a rich hummus sauce, garlic, and vegetable broth.
As the vibrant hues of fall begin to paint the streets of New York City, I find myself gravitating toward dishes that combine comfort with a modern twist. With Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, I was inspired to create a delightful recipe that's not only rich and creamy but also hugs my heart with a touch of warmth-a Creamy Hummus Pasta. This dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgent and healthful, making it a fantastic option for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Creamy Hummus Pasta brings together comfort and health in one delicious dish.
- It's perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in, offering a modern twist on classic flavors.
- The recipe is simple and quick, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
- Leftover hummus sauce doubles as a dip, adding versatility to your meal options.
- You can easily customize it with vegetables or proteins to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh and flavorful ingredients to make the Creamy Hummus Pasta:
Pasta
- 12 ounces of your favorite pasta (whole wheat or chickpea pasta recommended)
Hummus Sauce
- 1 cup of creamy hummus (homemade roasted garlic is ideal)
- 1 cup of vegetable broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of lemon juice
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Optional: red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of za'atar
How to Make Creamy Hummus Pasta (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps for a smooth and creamy pasta experience:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. You want it to be tender yet still firm, which takes about 8-10 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Hummus Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, drizzle the olive oil and add the minced garlic. Sauté until the garlic is aromatic and lightly golden, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Lower the heat, then stir in the vegetable broth, hummus, and lemon juice. Whisk until the sauce is smooth and glossy, inhaling the luscious aroma.
Step 4: Toss the Pasta
Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water. Add the pasta into the hummus sauce and toss gently to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach a velvety consistency.
Step 5: Season to Taste
Add freshly cracked black pepper and salt to your preference. For those who enjoy a kick, now's the time to sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or za'atar.
Step 6: Serve
Plate the pasta and top with chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant contrast against the creamy sauce. Enjoy immediately!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not salting the pasta water: This is your chance to infuse the pasta with flavor; don't skip it!
- Overcooking the pasta: Aim for al dente-this keeps the texture inviting and prevents mushy pasta.
- Skipping the reserved pasta water: This magical ingredient can transform a too-thick sauce into a luscious, easily blendable consistency.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- If you're looking to add vegetables, sautéed spinach or roasted cherry tomatoes are excellent options that add both flavor and nutrition.
- Leftover hummus sauce can also serve as a dip for veggies or crackers, making it versatile for holiday snacking.
- For a protein-packed twist, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas as a topping.
Variations
- Substitute regular pasta with whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added nutrition.
- Try different flavors of hummus, such as roasted red pepper or lemon basil.
- Add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added texture and taste.
How to Serve
- Plate the pasta and generously sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Offer grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast on the side for those who enjoy extra flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the hummus sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and keep it creamy.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the sauce may separate upon thawing.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
While testing this recipe, I discovered how easily hummus can elevate a simple pasta dish into something extraordinary. It's a beautiful reminder that sometimes, the most unexpected combinations can lead to delightful culinary surprises!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~350 calories · 10g protein · 55g carbs · 12g fat
Recipe by:
Comforting Creamy Hummus Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, drizzle the olive oil and add the minced garlic. Sauté until the garlic is aromatic and lightly golden.
- Lower the heat, then stir in the vegetable broth, hummus, and lemon juice. Whisk until the sauce is smooth and glossy.
- Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water. Add the pasta into the hummus sauce and toss gently to coat.
- Add freshly cracked black pepper and salt to your preference. Serve topped with chopped fresh parsley.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works well in this recipe. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as it may differ from traditional pasta.
2. Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, the recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses hummus and vegetable broth. Just ensure that any additional ingredients, like toppings, are also vegan.
3. How can I store leftover Creamy Hummus Pasta?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce creamy.
4. What type of hummus is best for this recipe?
A homemade roasted garlic hummus works wonderfully, but any creamy store-bought hummus will also do. Feel free to choose your favorite flavor!
5. Can I add protein to this dish?
Certainly! Grilled chicken or chickpeas are excellent additions for boosting the protein content while still keeping this recipe delicious.
