Acorn squash hummus recipe is all you want at any time of the year, not only fall! This twist on traditional hummus takes the classic chickpea spread and adds a touch of natural sweetness and warmth from the roasted acorn squash. The result is a delightful combination of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing and your stomach satisfied.
As the weather starts to cool down and the leaves change color, I can't help but get excited about all the delicious seasonal produce that becomes available. One of my favorite autumn ingredients is acorn squash, and I have been experimenting with creative ways to incorporate it into my meals.
One of my latest culinary discoveries is Acorn Squash Hummus, and let me tell you, it's an absolute game-changer!
Acorn squash is not only delicious, but it's also packed with essential nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. By incorporating it into hummus, you're creating a nutrient-dense, protein-rich snack that's perfect for any occasion.
Recipe ingredients
- Acorn Squash: A type of winter squash with a green exterior and orange flesh, it is a nutritious ingredient that adds flavor, texture, and creaminess to the hummus.
- Chickpeas: Also known as garbanzo beans, they are a legume that is high in protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients. They provide a creamy and hearty texture to the hummus.
- Tahini: A paste made from ground sesame seeds, it adds a nutty flavor and a creamy texture to the hummus.
- Garlic: A pungent and flavorful ingredient that adds depth of flavor and a spicy kick to the hummus.
- Lemon Juice: A sour and acidic ingredient that provides a tangy flavor to the hummus.
- Cumin: A spice with a warm and earthy flavor, it adds a smoky and aromatic quality to the hummus.
- Smoked Paprika: A spice made from dried and smoked red peppers, it adds a smoky and slightly sweet flavor to the hummus.
- Salt and Pepper: Common seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the hummus and provide balance and depth of flavor.
- Olive Oil: A healthy fat that provides a rich and smooth texture to the hummus, and also helps to thin it out if needed.
By using a combination of these ingredients, the acorn squash hummus recipe provides a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for dipping or spreading on crackers, pita bread, or vegetables.
How to make acorn squash hummus (overview)
- Roast acorn squash: Cut the squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and roast it in the oven until it's tender and caramelized. Once it's cooled, scoop the flesh out and set it aside.
- Prepare chickpeas: Drain and rinse canned chickpeas, or cook dried chickpeas according to package instructions. If you prefer a smoother texture, consider removing the skins from the chickpeas.
- Blend it all together: In a food processor or blender, combine the roasted acorn squash, chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and spices like cumin, paprika, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting the consistency with olive oil or water as needed.
- Serve and enjoy: Transfer your Acorn Squash Hummus to a serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with your choice of garnishes like chopped parsley, roasted pepitas, or a dash of paprika. Serve with your favorite dippers like pita chips, raw veggies, or crackers.
Frequently asked questions
Acorn Squash Hummus has a unique flavor profile, blending the natural sweetness and earthiness of roasted acorn squash with the creamy, nutty taste of traditional hummus. The combination of ingredients creates a slightly sweet, rich, and savory spread that is both delicious and satisfying.
Yes, you can substitute other types of winter squash, such as butternut or kabocha, for acorn squash. Keep in mind that different squash varieties have slightly different flavors and textures, so your hummus may taste different depending on the squash you choose.
While tahini is a key ingredient in traditional hummus, you can make Acorn Squash Hummus without it. You can substitute other nut or seed butters, like almond or sunflower seed butter, or you can simply omit the tahini altogether. Just be aware that the final texture and flavor may vary from the original recipe.
Yes, Acorn Squash Hummus is naturally vegan and gluten-free, as it contains no animal products or gluten-containing ingredients. However, if you have specific dietary restrictions, always check the labels of store-bought ingredients like tahini and spices to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Yes, you can freeze Acorn Squash Hummus in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Note that the texture may change slightly after freezing, so you might need to give it a good stir to bring it back to its original consistency.
Storage instructions
- Let the hummus cool completely before storing it. Leaving it at room temperature for more than 2 hours can cause bacterial growth and spoilage.
- Transfer the leftover hummus to an airtight container or a covered bowl.
- Place the container in the refrigerator and store for up to 4-5 days.
- When ready to serve, take the hummus out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
- Give the hummus a quick stir to ensure that the consistency is even.
Note: The olive oil in the hummus may solidify when refrigerated, causing the texture to become thicker. If this happens, simply let the hummus sit at room temperature for a few minutes and give it a quick stir before serving. If the hummus seems too thick, you can add a little bit of water or olive oil to thin it out to your desired consistency.
By following these storage instructions, you can keep your acorn squash hummus fresh and delicious for several days, making it a great make-ahead option for snacks or meals.
More recipes
Hope you will like this acorn squash hummus recipe as much as we do. Please rate the recipe if you made it and leave a comment below if you have questions or suggestions.
Acorn squash hummus
Acorn squash hummus recipe is all you want at any time of the year, not only fall! This twist on traditional hummus takes the classic chickpea spread and adds a touch of natural sweetness and warmth from the roasted acorn squash. The result is a delightful combination of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing and your stomach satisfied.
Ingredients
- 1 medium acorn squash
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2-4 tbsp olive oil
- Water, as needed
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds.
- Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
- Remove the squash from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Scoop the flesh out of the squash and add it to a food processor or blender.
- Add the chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the food processor or blender.
- Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- While the food processor or blender is running, gradually add the olive oil until the hummus is smooth and creamy.
- If the hummus is too thick, add water 1 tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl and serve with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers.
Notes
Storage instructions
- Let the hummus cool completely before storing it. Leaving it at room temperature for more than 2 hours can cause bacterial growth and spoilage.
- Transfer the leftover hummus to an airtight container or a covered bowl.
- Place the container in the refrigerator and store for up to 4-5 days.
- When ready to serve, take the hummus out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
- Give the hummus a quick stir to ensure that the consistency is even.
Note: The olive oil in the hummus may solidify when refrigerated, causing the texture to become thicker. If this happens, simply let the hummus sit at room temperature for a few minutes and give it a quick stir before serving. If the hummus seems too thick, you can add a little bit of water or olive oil to thin it out to your desired consistency.
By following these storage instructions, you can keep your acorn squash hummus fresh and delicious for several days, making it a great make-ahead option for snacks or meals.
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