Hummus pasta is a tasty new dish that mixes creamy hummus with simple pasta. It kind of tastes rich but still easy to make and its good if you want a healthy sauce instead of tomato or cheese sauces. Its definately a crowd pleaser for folks who want flavor without junk. Plenty people these days try plant based meals and hummus pasta fits that trend cuz its quick and yummy.
One cool thing about hummus is its made from chickpeas, tahini, olive oil and lemon juice which all are good for you. Chickpeas got loads of protein and fiber which helps your muscles and your tummy. The healthy fats from olive oil and tahini is good for your heart but also keeps the sauce smooth. Plus you get iron, folate and magnesium that makes this meal more than just filling its also healthy.
Hummus pasta got popular fast cause its super easy to cook. You just boil pasta, stir in hummus and any vegtables you like and you done. If you dont want vegtables you can add olives or sun dried tomatos too. This dish works for a fast weeknight supper or if you want to meal prep for school lunches. Lots of folks love it cause it tastes good and its flexible to change around.
What is Hummus Pasta?
Hummus pasta is basically pasta that get's coated with hummus instead of a usual sauce. Its simple but it feels fancy cause hummus is creamy and flavorful. You cook the pasta, then you mix in hummus till the noodles are all covered and you got a warm filling plate thats also good for you.
The main parts for hummus pasta are, of course, hummus and pasta. You can use wheat pasta, glutenfree or even veggie pasta if you want. You can also toss in peppers, spinach or herbs and spices you like. Some people do spanish style with olives and sun dried tomatos or others go italian and add garlic, basil and chili flakes. Its up to you and thats what makes it fun.
In different places, hummus pasta can taste a bit different. Some might add more garlic or cumin for a more middle eastern vibe. Then there are versions that use italian spices like oregano and parsley. No matter wich way you pick, hummus pasta is always a blank canvas.
The Nutritional Benefits of Hummus
Hummus is packed with good fats cause of tahini made from sesame seeds. These fats are monounsaturated and help your heart stay healthy plus it makes the pasta creamy without heavy cream or cheese.
Also hummus got protein in it from chickpeas. Thats why vegan and vegetarian people love it, its perfect after sports or just to stay full longer. The fiber in chickpeas also helps your digestion and it doesnt raise your blood sugar super fast.
And theres more: hummus has iron, folate and magnesium wich are all important for your body. Comparing hummus pasta with cheese sauces or alfredo sauce, hummus one is lighter but still flavorful. That swap makes your meal healthier but you dont have to give up taste.
Choosing the Right Hummus
Picking the right hummus can change how your pasta turns out. You can buy hummus from store or make it at home. Store bought hummus is easy and comes in tons of flavors like red pepper or garlic, but check the label so theres not too many bad stuff inside.
If you make your own hummus, you can control everything. Just blend chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice and salt and pepper. You can add spices like cumin or paprika or anything else you like. This way the taste and thickness is just how you want it.
When youre in the shop, look for hummus with few ingredients. Chickpeas and tahini should be the first things listed, not sugar or weird chemicals. Some folks like it smooth, others like little chickpea bits so pick what you like.
Hummus Pasta Recipe
4.1 Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice (regular, whole wheat, or glutenfree)
- 1 cup hummus (store bought or homemade)
- 1 cup seasonal veggies (like spinach, zucchini, peppers)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: fresh herbs, nuts (pine nuts or walnuts), chili flakes
4.2 Directions
Just follow these easy steps:
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a big pot of water with salt. Add pasta and cook till its al dente. Save half a cup of pasta water, then drain and set pasta aside.
- Sauté the Veggies: Heat olive oil in a pan. Toss in your veggies and cook till they’re tender and a bit brown, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Mix the Hummus: Put the cooked pasta and the veggies in a bowl. Add hummus and stir till the pasta is coated. If the mix is too thick, add some pasta water bit by bit till it spreads easily.
- Adjust and Serve: Taste and add more salt, pepper or chili flakes if you want more kick. Serve it warm with herbs or nuts on top.
4.3 Serving Suggestions
- Try it with a cherry tomato salad topped with lemon vinaigrette.
- Serve pita or crusty bread to scoop up any extra hummus.
- Pair it with cold white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a nice combo.
4.4 Storage Tips
Let the hummus pasta cool before you put it in a container. You can keep it in the fridge for upto 3 days. When you reheat, add a little olive oil or water so it dont dry out.
Creative Variations on Hummus Pasta
- Hummus Pasta with Roasted Veggies: Add roasted eggplant, cherry tomatoes and garlic for a smoky taste.
- Protein-Packed Hummus Pasta: Stir in extra chickpeas or lentils for more protein.
- Spicy Hummus Pasta: Mix in sriracha or chili flakes for heat that goes perfect with the creamy sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make hummus pasta glutenfree?
Yes, just use glutenfree pasta like brown rice or chickpea pasta and you set.
Q2: What can I use instead of pasta?
You could try zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash or even cauliflower rice if you want low carb.
Q3: Is hummus pasta healthy?
Yes its healthy cause it has good fats, protein and fiber from hummus plus your pasta.
Q4: Can I add protein to hummus pasta?
Sure, toss in cooked chicken, tofu or extra legumes for more protein and filling meal.
Q5: How long does hummus pasta last in the fridge?
You can keep it in an airtight container upto 3 days. Warm it up with some water or olive oil so it stay creamy.
Conclusion
Hummus pasta is so easy to change up and try new flavors. Its creamy, healthy and a great switch from usual sauces. Try it then add your twist and share it with friends!
hummus pasta
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 colander
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 cooking spoon
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta any shape, such as penne or fusilli
- 1 cup hummus
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup spinach chopped
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 lemon Fresh lemon juice from 1 lemon
- Crumbled feta cheese or olives for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the hummus, olive oil, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
- Add the drained pasta to the mixing bowl with the hummus mixture. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Gently fold in the cherry tomatoes and chopped spinach, mixing until the spinach is slightly wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm or at room temperature.
- If desired, garnish with crumbled feta cheese or olives before serving.
