Garden Vegetable Hummus Recipe With Pine Nuts and Chives

Hummus is a versatile and nourishing dip that pairs wonderfully with chips, crackers, and fresh veggies. 

This Garden Vegetable Hummus with Pine Nuts and Chives is a delicious twist on the classic recipe, incorporating fresh, seasonal vegetables and delightful toppings for added texture and flavor.

Whether you’re prepping a quick snack, hosting a gathering, or looking for a healthy addition to your meals, hummus is a reliable choice. 

Easy to make and endlessly customizable, it’s a plant-based staple you’ll keep coming back to – we certainly do! 

Let’s dive into our recipe for a hummus that’s as visually stunning as it is flavorful!

Why You’ll Love This Garden Veg Hummus

This hummus is packed with fresh veggies and topped with simple, flavorful ingredients. It’s a fun twist on the classic recipe that’s sure to become a favorite. Here’s why:

• Packed with Veggies: Incorporates carrots, zucchini, and capsicum for a nutrient-rich, colorful base.
• Nutty Crunch: Topped with toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch in every bite.
• Bright and Fresh: Chives and lemon juice add refreshing notes to balance the earthy tahini.
• Perfectly Creamy: Optional peeled chickpeas make the texture smooth and luxurious.

Garden Vegetable Hummus Recipe

Ingredients

For the Hummus:

• 1 (15 oz) can of chickpeas (rinsed and peeled for a smoother texture)
• ½ small zucchini, chopped into chunks
• 1 medium carrot, chopped
• ½ red capsicum, thickly sliced
• 1 garlic clove, peeled
• ⅓ cup tahini
• Juice of 1 lemon (plus zest, optional)
• 4–6 tablespoons water (adjust for consistency)
• Salt, to taste

For the Topping:

• 2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted
• 1 handful of fresh chives, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by prepping the vegetables. Chop the zucchini, carrot, and capsicum into manageable chunks. Rinse and peel the chickpeas if you prefer an extra creamy hummus—though optional, this step makes a noticeable difference.

2. Blend the Base

In a food processor, combine the zucchini, carrot, capsicum, chickpeas, garlic, tahini, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Blitz in short intervals to avoid over-processing. Gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the hummus reaches your desired consistency.

3. Adjust and Taste

Pause to scrape down the sides of the food processor and ensure all the ingredients are evenly incorporated. Taste the hummus and adjust with more salt, lemon juice, or water as needed.

4. Serve and Garnish

Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Sprinkle the chopped chives and toasted pine nuts over the top. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil for a glossy, flavorful touch.

Top Tips for Making Perfect Hummus

Keep these tips in mind to take your hummus from good to great:

• Peel the Chickpeas: If you have the time, remove the skins from your chickpeas for an ultra-smooth and creamy texture.
• Balance the Flavors: Adjust the lemon juice, salt, and tahini to your taste as you blend. A little tweak can make all the difference!
• Add Water Gradually: Drizzle in water one tablespoon at a time to get the consistency just right. Too much liquid at once can make it runny.
• Scrape Down the Sides: Stop blending occasionally to scrape down the bowl and ensure everything is evenly mixed.
• Taste as You Go: Hummus is all about balance. Keep tasting until it’s perfect for your palate.

Creative Hummus Variations Our Family Loves

Once you’ve mastered this Garden Vegetable Hummus, try experimenting with other ingredients to create unique flavors. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next batch:

1. Roasted Pumpkin Hummus

Perfect for fall, roasted pumpkin adds a rich sweetness to the hummus. Blend it with chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and a pinch of nutmeg for a seasonal twist.

2. Beetroot Hummus

This vibrant pink hummus is a showstopper! Roast or boil beetroot, then blend it with chickpeas, tahini, and lemon juice for a slightly sweet and earthy flavor.

3. Green Hummus

Incorporate leafy greens like spinach, kale, or rocket for a nutrient-packed, colorful dip. Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an extra burst of flavor.

How to Store and Freeze Hummus

Homemade hummus is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored for later use.

• Refrigerate: Transfer hummus to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 7 days.
• Freeze: Place hummus in a freezer-safe container, covering it with a layer of olive oil to prevent drying. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and stir well before serving.

Final Thoughts

Garden Vegetable Hummus with Pine Nuts and Chives is a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. 

Whether served as a snack, party dip, or addition to your meal prep routine, it’s bound to become a family favorite.

Experiment with seasonal veggies, explore flavor variations, and enjoy the satisfaction of homemade hummus made just the way you like it.

Frequently Asked Questions