Alright, friends! Let me tell you about the time I first made Hummus Pasta. I was a little skeptical. Hummus? In pasta? Really? But boy, oh, boy – when I mixed that creamy goodness into my noodles, you could say I was *hooked*! My taste buds danced, and I could hardly believe how simple and quick it was! The first time I made it, I followed the recipe to a T, but I felt it needed a pop of color. I decided to add some sautéed spinach and cherry tomatoes the second time around, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer. So, fear not, friends – if something doesn’t feel right, make it your own!
Hummus Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz. of your favorite pasta spaghetti, penne, or gluten-free if that’s your jam!
- 1 cup of hummus store-bought or homemade - any flavor you fancy
- 2 cups of fresh spinach you can use kale or arugula if that’s what you have
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes halved (or any favorite veggie like bell peppers or zucchini!)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil or avocado oil for a twist
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: A sprinkle of lemon juice for brightness or a handful of nuts/seeds for crunch!
Instructions
- First off, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. It’s like a hot tub for your pasta! Add in the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente - that’s Italian for “to the tooth!”
- While that pasta is doing its thing, heat up a skillet over medium heat. Once heated, drizzle in the olive oil, followed by the spinach. Watch that spinach wilt and become all soft and delicious!
- When your pasta is ready, drain it, but don’t forget to save about half a cup of that starchy pasta water. *Trust me*, it’s going to help make your sauce super creamy!
- Now, let’s get saucy! In the same skillet with the wilted spinach, add your hummus and stir it around. Pour in a splash of that reserved pasta water until you achieve the creaminess you crave.
- Add in those lovely halved cherry tomatoes, cooked pasta, and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Gently stir to combine everything. We want those noodles coated in all that yummy goodness!
- Feel free to add a squeeze of lemon juice for a pop of freshness, if that tickles your tastebuds!
- Plate it up and top with your favorite nuts or seeds for an extra crunch if you’re feeling adventurous!
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 12g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 48g |
| Fiber | 8g |
5 Tips for this Recipe
- Experiment! Try different types of hummus, like roasted red pepper or garlic, to give the dish a different personality!
- Veggies are your friends! Add in whatever fresh veggies you have on hand for extra nutrients.
- Save that pasta water! It’s liquid gold for making your sauce come together beautifully.
- Make-ahead vibes! You can whip up the sauce ahead of time and just toss it with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to eat.
- Herbs are fabulous! Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can brighten and elevate the dish!
5 FAQs for this Recipe
- Can I use gluten-free pasta? Absolutely! Use your favorite gluten-free variety to keep it friendly for all diet types.
- Is this recipe vegan? Yes! This dish is plant-based and super delicious!
- How long does this dish keep? In an airtight container in the fridge, it can last for about 3-4 days.
- Can I freeze Hummus Pasta? While the sauce would keep, pasta tends to get mushy once thawed, so I recommend enjoying it fresh!
- What can I serve with Hummus Pasta? A light salad or a side of roasted veggies really complements this dish!
5 Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
- Label your container with the date to keep track of how long it has been stored.
- Keep it stored in the fridge for optimal freshness!
- If you make a big batch, divide it into individual portions for easy grab-and-go meals!
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of pasta water to restore creaminess!
5 Common Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta – stick to al dente for the best texture!
- Skipping the reserved pasta water – it’s essential for creamy sauce!
- Not tasting along the way – seasoning is a personal preference, so make it your own!
- Not letting the pan heat up before adding the ingredients – this can cause sticking!
- Being afraid to get creative – feel free to add whatever you love to personalize your dish!
Final Thoughts
Cooking Hummus Pasta was such a delightful adventure! From hesitantly mixing together hummus and pasta to whipping up a colorful dish filled with spinach and cherry tomatoes, I ended up with a wholesome meal that was surprisingly easy to make. It taught me that experimenting in the kitchen can lead to wonderful surprises, and this dish is no exception! I can’t wait for you all to try it and make it your own. So gear up, grab those ingredients, and let’s twirl our forks into this creamy, dreamy delight!
Remember, cooking is meant to be fun and inviting, just like we are as friends! Let’s explore the flavors and give our taste buds a treat. Hummus Pasta is a tasty spot you’ll want to come back to again and again!
Happy cooking, friends! Let’s make magic in the kitchen!
