Roasted pumpkin hummus has become a staple in my kitchen, especially during the cooler months when pumpkins are in season. I love how the roasting process brings out a natural sweetness and a subtle earthiness in the pumpkin that pairs beautifully with the classic creamy texture of hummus. The aroma of roasting pumpkin fills the kitchen with a warm, inviting scent that makes the whole process satisfying.

What makes this hummus special is its balance of flavors and its versatility. I often serve it as a snack with fresh vegetables or pita chips, but it also works well as a spread on sandwiches or a side for grilled meats. Its smooth texture, with just a hint of pumpkin graininess, adds a nice twist to traditional hummus.

I appreciate that it’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The combination of roasted pumpkin, garlic, and tahini creates a comforting dip that’s both familiar and a little different from the usual hummus.

Quick Facts

Why You’ll Love It

This roasted pumpkin hummus is a flavorful twist on a classic dip, perfect for adding seasonal variety to your snack options. It’s creamy, slightly sweet, and packed with simple ingredients you likely have on hand.

• Reliable weeknight option
• Minimal ingredients
• Rich, crowd-pleasing flavor
• Scales well for guests

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make a smooth and flavorful roasted pumpkin hummus. You’ll need canned chickpeas for convenience, but feel free to use dried chickpeas if you prefer. Fresh garlic and tahini add the classic hummus base, while lemon juice and spices round out the flavor.

• 1 small sugar pumpkin (about 2 pounds), peeled and cubed
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 3 tablespoons tahini
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
• 2 to 4 tablespoons water, as needed for consistency
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to roast the pumpkin and blend all the ingredients into a creamy, flavorful hummus. Roasting the pumpkin first is key to unlocking its natural sweetness and soft texture.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the peeled and cubed pumpkin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
3. Roast the pumpkin for 30-35 minutes, turning halfway through, until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Allow the pumpkin to cool slightly, then transfer to a food processor.
5. Add the chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the food processor.
6. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed. Add water, one tablespoon at a time, to reach your desired consistency.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, lemon juice, or spices if needed.
8. Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl, drizzle with remaining olive oil, and sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper before serving.

Chef Tips

To get the best texture and flavor from your roasted pumpkin hummus, keep these tips in mind during preparation and serving.

• Use sugar pumpkin or pie pumpkin for a sweeter, less watery flesh.
• Roast pumpkin pieces evenly sized for uniform cooking.
• Peeling the pumpkin before roasting helps achieve a smoother hummus.
• Adjust water gradually to avoid a too-thin dip.
• Serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.

Substitutions

If you need to swap out ingredients, here are some practical substitutions that won’t compromise the flavor or texture of your hummus.

• Use canned pumpkin puree if short on time (reduce water accordingly).
• Swap tahini with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nutty twist.
• Replace lemon juice with lime juice for a slightly different citrus note.
• Use smoked paprika or regular paprika depending on your preference.
• Substitute garlic with garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.

Storage & Reheating

Proper storage will keep your roasted pumpkin hummus fresh and flavorful for several days. Follow these guidelines to maintain quality and safety.

• Store hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Stir well before serving if separated.
• Freeze in portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Avoid leaving hummus at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Perfect Pairings

This roasted pumpkin hummus pairs well with a variety of foods and beverages, making it a versatile addition to your meals and snacks.

• Warm pita bread or crisp pita chips
• Fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers
• Grilled chicken or roasted turkey
• A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc

FAQs

Here are answers to common questions about making and enjoying roasted pumpkin hummus.

Nutritional Note

This roasted pumpkin hummus is a moderate source of plant-based protein and fiber, with healthy fats from olive oil and tahini. Nutritional values will vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used.