Green pea hummus is a vibrant twist on the classic Middle Eastern dip we all love. By swapping out traditional chickpeas for fresh or frozen green peas, this recipe brings a bright color and a slightly sweeter flavor that’s perfect for spring and summer gatherings. It’s a refreshing way to enjoy a healthy snack packed with protein and fiber.
We love how quick and easy it is to whip up this green pea hummus, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining. Plus, it pairs beautifully with veggies, pita bread, or crackers. Whether you’re looking to add more greens to your diet or just want to try something new, this green pea hummus recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
To create our vibrant Green Pea Hummus, we carefully select fresh ingredients that highlight the natural sweetness and fresh flavor of green peas. Below is a detailed list of Ingredients necessary to achieve the perfect balance of creaminess and zest:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Green peas | 2 cups | Fresh or frozen, thawed if frozen |
| Tahini | 1/4 cup | Well-stirred |
| Fresh lemon juice | 3 tablespoons | About 1 medium lemon |
| Garlic | 1 clove | Minced |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 3 tablespoons | Plus extra for drizzling |
| Ground cumin | 1/2 teaspoon | Optional but recommended |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | Adjust to taste |
| Cold water | 2–4 tablespoons | To thin the hummus as needed |
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in enhancing the green pea hummus’s texture and flavor. Fresh or thawed green peas provide the base with a naturally sweet, earthy taste. Adding tahini offers richness and depth, while fresh lemon juice brings brightness and acidity. The minced garlic and ground cumin contribute subtle warmth and complexity. Lastly, the olive oil smooths the consistency and adds a luscious finish.
By measuring each ingredient precisely and preparing them as indicated, we ensure our green pea hummus turns out creamy, flavorful, and visually appealing every time.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our vibrant Green Pea Hummus, having the right equipment is essential for achieving that perfectly smooth and creamy texture. Here is a detailed list of the key tools we recommend using:
- Food Processor or High-Powered Blender
This is the heart of the recipe. A food processor or a high-powered blender ensures the green peas blend evenly with the tahini and other ingredients to create a luscious hummus without any graininess.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements of ingredients like lemon juice, tahini, and cumin are crucial. Use standard measuring cups and spoons for precision.
- Spatula
A flexible silicone spatula helps us scrape down the sides of the processor bowl, ensuring every bit of the hummus is blended smoothly.
- Juicer (Optional)
For a fresh burst of citrus, a manual or handheld lemon juicer makes extracting lemon juice easier and cleaner, avoiding seeds.
- Serving Bowl
Once the hummus is ready, transfer it to a shallow, attractive serving bowl for presentation.
- Storage Container with Lid
If we’re storing leftovers, a small airtight container keeps the hummus fresh and maintains its bright color.
Equipment Overview
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Food Processor or Blender | Blend ingredients to creamy consistency | Essential for smooth texture |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement | Use standard kitchen sets |
| Silicone Spatula | Scrape bowl sides during blending | Ensures even mixing and minimal waste |
| Lemon Juicer (Optional) | Extract fresh lemon juice | Helps avoid seeds and pulp |
| Serving Bowl | Serving the hummus attractively | Choose shallow for easy dipping |
| Airtight Storage Container | Preserve leftovers | Keeps hummus fresh for up to 3 days |
Equipping ourselves with these tools will make the preparation of green pea hummus not only easier but also yield the best possible results every time we make this vibrant, flavorful dip.
Prep Work
Before diving into blending, we focus on carefully preparing our green peas and gathering all remaining ingredients. This initial step ensures smooth assembly and that our Green Pea Hummus achieves the perfect texture and flavor.
Preparing the Green Peas
- Choose your peas: Use fresh or frozen green peas for the best sweetness and vibrant color.
- If using fresh peas: Shell them and give a thorough rinse under cold water.
- If using frozen peas: Thaw completely by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight or placing them in a colander under running cold water for 5 minutes. Drain well.
- Optional blanching: For a brighter green hue and smoother texture, blanch peas in boiling water for 1 minute and immediately transfer to an ice bath. Drain thoroughly.
- Dry the peas: Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to avoid excess water diluting the hummus.
Gathering Other Ingredients
We recommend preparing the following ingredients all at once to streamline the blending process:
| Ingredient | Prep Details | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Tahini | Stir well before measuring | ¼ cup |
| Fresh lemon juice | Juice 1 large lemon | 3 tablespoons |
| Minced garlic | Finely mince or grate | 1 clove |
| Extra virgin olive oil | Set aside at room temperature | 2 tablespoons |
| Ground cumin | Measure precisely | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | Use fine sea salt | ¼ teaspoon |
| Cold water | Keep chilled to adjust consistency | 2 to 4 tablespoons |
To maximize flavor and ease, we recommend zesting the lemon before juicing it for a subtle citrus aroma in the finished hummus. Additionally, measuring ingredients accurately assures the perfect blend of creaminess and zest we aim for in our dish.
Instructions
Let’s transform our carefully prepared ingredients into a smooth, vibrant green pea hummus. Follow these steps for a creamy, flavorful dip that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests.
Blending the Ingredients
- Add the green peas to the food processor or high-powered blender. Use 2 cups of fresh or thawed frozen peas for the best texture.
- Spoon in ¼ cup of tahini. This adds a rich creaminess that balances the peas’ natural sweetness.
- Pour in 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. The acidity brightens the flavor profile.
- Add 1-2 minced garlic cloves. Adjust according to your taste for a vibrant, garlicky kick.
- Drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil into the mix.
- Sprinkle ½ teaspoon ground cumin to introduce a subtle warmth.
- Season with ½ teaspoon salt or to taste.
- Secure the lid and pulse the mixture to start combining.
- Gradually pour in 2 to 4 tablespoons of cold water to create a creamy, smooth texture. Add water slowly to prevent thinning out too much.
- Continue blending for 1 to 2 minutes, scraping down the sides with a silicone spatula to ensure even blending.
Adjusting Consistency and Flavor
After the initial blend, check the texture and taste to perfect our green pea hummus.
| Adjustment | Action | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Too thick | Add 1 tablespoon cold water | Thins hummus for creamier texture |
| Too thin | Add more peas or 1 teaspoon tahini | Thickens and enhances creaminess |
| Needs brightness | Add 1 tablespoon lemon juice | Adds fresh, tangy flavor |
| Needs seasoning | Add salt in ¼ teaspoon increments | Balances and enhances overall taste |
- Use a spoon to test and adjust flavors.
- Blend again briefly after adding any ingredients.
- For extra olive oil richness, drizzle 1 teaspoon on top before serving.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of cumin, fresh herbs like parsley, or a few whole peas for presentation.
Following these steps ensures our green pea hummus has the perfect balance of flavor, creaminess, and vibrant color — an irresistible dip for any occasion.
Serving Suggestions
Our green pea hummus shines as a versatile dip that enhances a variety of snacks and meals. Here are our top Serving Suggestions to elevate your experience:
- Fresh Vegetables
Crisp veggie sticks like carrots, cucumber, bell peppers, and celery complement the creamy texture perfectly. The bright green hue of the hummus pairs visually with the colorful veggies for an inviting platter.
- Pita Bread and Chips
Warm pita wedges or crunchy pita chips are classic partners. Their subtle flavor and firm texture create a satisfying contrast to the smooth, zesty hummus.
- Crackers and Flatbreads
Choose whole-grain crackers or flatbreads for extra heartiness. This option is excellent for serving as an appetizer or alongside soup and salads.
- Topping for Toast
Spread the green pea hummus over toasted sourdough or multigrain bread. Garnish with crushed red pepper flakes and a drizzle of olive oil for a quick, flavorful snack.
- Salad Dressing Base
Thin the hummus slightly with lemon juice or water to create a creamy, green dressing perfect for fresh greens or grain bowls.
- Garnishes to Enhance Flavor and Presentation
To add texture and visual appeal, try these toppings:
- Toasted pine nuts or chopped pistachios
- Fresh herbs like mint, parsley, or cilantro
- A sprinkle of smoked paprika or sumac
- A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
| Serving Option | Complementary Pairings | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Vegetables | Carrots, celery, cucumbers, bell peppers | Adds crunch and freshness |
| Pita Bread and Chips | Warm pita wedges, crunchy pita chips | Warmth and texture contrast |
| Crackers and Flatbreads | Whole-grain crackers, flatbreads | Adds heartiness for appetizers |
| Toast Topping | Sourdough, multigrain bread | Ideal quick snack or light meal |
| Salad Dressing Base | Mixed greens, grain bowls | Creamy dip transformed to dressing |
“Serving green pea hummus with a variety of textures and flavors not only enhances its taste but also makes it a centerpiece on any snack table.”
We recommend keeping a bowl of green pea hummus ready to elevate your gatherings, meals, or even a simple snack break with these versatile serving ideas.
Storage Tips
To keep our Green Pea Hummus fresh and flavorful, proper storage is key. Here are the best practices to preserve its vibrant color and creamy texture:
- Use an airtight container to prevent the hummus from drying out or absorbing other odors in the fridge.
- Cover the surface with a thin layer of olive oil before sealing. This extra step locks in moisture and slows oxidation, helping maintain the bright green color.
- Store in the refrigerator immediately after preparation or serving. Our green pea hummus will stay fresh for up to 4 days when stored properly.
- If you notice the hummus thickening after refrigeration, simply stir in a teaspoon of water or olive oil to restore its smooth consistency before serving.
For longer storage, freezing is an option:
| Freezing Green Pea Hummus | Details |
|---|---|
| Freezer Storage Duration | Up to 3 months |
| Recommended Freezing Method | Store in a freezer-safe airtight container |
| Thawing Instructions | Thaw overnight in the fridge |
| Post-thaw Texture | May thicken; stir in water or olive oil to adjust |
“Proper storage of our green pea hummus ensures every bite remains as fresh and inviting as the first.”
Remember to avoid leaving the hummus at room temperature for longer than 2 hours to minimize risks of spoilage. Following these storage tips will keep our green pea hummus delicious and ready for any occasion.
Conclusion
Green pea hummus is a vibrant and delicious way to mix up your snack routine while adding a healthy boost to your diet. Its quick preparation and versatile flavor make it an ideal choice for any occasion, from casual snacks to elegant gatherings.
With simple ingredients and easy steps, we can enjoy a creamy, fresh dip that’s as beautiful as it is tasty. Keeping it stored properly means we can savor every spoonful without worry.
Let’s keep this bright, green delight on hand to elevate our meals and snack times effortlessly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is green pea hummus?
Green pea hummus is a colorful and flavorful dip made from green peas instead of traditional chickpeas. It has a sweeter taste, vibrant color, and is perfect for spring and summer meals or snacks.
What ingredients are needed for green pea hummus?
Key ingredients include green peas, tahini, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, ground cumin, salt, and cold water. Each ingredient adds to the creamy texture and fresh flavor.
Do I need special equipment to make green pea hummus?
A food processor or high-powered blender is essential for a smooth texture. Other helpful tools include measuring spoons, a silicone spatula, and an optional lemon juicer.
Should I use fresh or frozen peas?
Both fresh and frozen peas work well. Blanching fresh peas can enhance color and texture, while frozen peas are convenient and maintain sweetness.
How do I adjust the texture of the hummus?
Add cold water gradually while blending to reach the desired creaminess. If too thick, add more water; if too thin, add more peas or tahini.
What are the best ways to serve green pea hummus?
Serve with fresh veggies, pita bread, chips, whole-grain crackers, or as a toast topping. It can also be thinned for salad dressings or grain bowls.
How should I store leftover green pea hummus?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Cover the surface with olive oil to keep it fresh. For long-term storage, freeze in a sealed container.
Can green pea hummus be frozen?
Yes, freezing is recommended for longer storage. Thaw in the refrigerator and stir well before serving to restore texture and flavor.
How long can green pea hummus sit out?
Avoid leaving hummus at room temperature for more than two hours to prevent bacterial growth and spoilage.
Can I customize green pea hummus flavors?
Absolutely! You can add herbs, spices, or garnishes like toasted nuts, fresh herbs, smoked paprika, or a drizzle of olive oil to enhance the flavor and presentation.