Description
A vibrant and creamy Fresh Basil Hummus that combines classic chickpeas with aromatic basil leaves, tahini, and lemon juice, served with crispy homemade pita chips seasoned with za’atar and sesame seeds. This refreshing hummus is perfect for gatherings or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Hummus
- 15 oz can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 clove garlic
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 cups packed basil leaves
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for serving
- Za’atar, for garnish
- Lemon wedge, for serving
Pita Chips
- Pita bread, cut into small triangles
- Olive oil, for brushing
- Onion salt, for sprinkling
- Za’atar, for sprinkling
- Sesame seeds, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Prepare chickpeas: Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly. Place them in the bowl of a food processor along with the smashed garlic clove. Process for several minutes, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides, aiming to achieve a smooth texture.
- Add tahini and lemon: Add the tahini and fresh lemon juice to the chickpea puree. Process briefly to combine the ingredients evenly.
- Incorporate basil: Add the packed basil leaves to the mixture and process for another two minutes, scraping down the sides as needed, until the hummus is very smooth and well-blended.
- Adjust consistency and seasoning: While the processor is running, slowly drizzle in some ice water to loosen the hummus to your desired consistency. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
- Chill the hummus: Transfer the hummus to a shallow bowl, spread it evenly, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to serve to allow flavors to meld.
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare the pita chips.
- Prepare pita chips: Arrange the pita triangles on a baking sheet. Lightly brush them with olive oil and sprinkle with onion salt, za’atar, and sesame seeds evenly.
- Bake pita chips: Bake the pita triangles for a few minutes until they begin to brown. Flip them over and bake for a few more minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. For extra crispiness, brush the second side with olive oil before baking again.
- Serve: Spread the chilled hummus on a serving dish, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with additional za’atar or paprika if desired, and garnish with a lemon wedge. Serve alongside the warm, crispy pita chips.
Notes
- Using ice water helps achieve a light and smooth hummus texture.
- Fresh basil gives a unique and aromatic twist to traditional hummus.
- Watch the pita chips carefully while baking to avoid burning, as they can brown quickly.
- Any leftover hummus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Feel free to customize seasonings on pita chips according to your taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dip
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Keywords: Fresh Basil Hummus, Hummus Recipe, Basil Dip, Homemade Pita Chips, Middle Eastern Appetizer, Healthy Snacks
