Spring Fest: 5 Fresh Takes on Hummus

By: Emily Lee

While we’re waiting on perfect peas to come into season, fudge it with mashed (chick)peas. These clever takes on hummus are light for spring entertaining and will make great use of crudites as they come into season. Here are recipes for classic hummus plus four variations that are ideal for using seasonal ingredients.

1. Hummus bi Tahini (pictured above)

This classic hummus is topped with a sauce made from tahini, the sesame-seed paste that is nearly ubiquitous in Middle Eastern cooking. Although preparing hummus from dry beans demands extra work, the authentic, flavorful results are well worth the effort.

2. Edamame "Hummus"

Surprise guests at your next get-together with this delicate green “hummus” made with shelled edamame, silken tofu and lemon juice. Like traditional hummus, this protein-packed snack is creamy yet healthy. Use some cumin and reserved soybeans for a colorful garnish.

Sunny Anderson Cooking Channel Garbanzo Beans, Plain Yogurt, Olive Oil, Dill Leaves, Ground Cumin, Hot Paprika, Salt, Black Pepper, Pita Pockets

3. Dill Hummus and Toasted Pita Wedges

Dill has a distinct earthy flavor that will tone down the intensity of the cumin and hot paprika in this chunky hummus. To achieve the hearty texture, try not to overpulse the bean mixture, especially since the toasted pita wedges will be able to support a heftier hummus.

Gabriele Corcos and Debi Mazar - White Beans and Rosemary Crostini

4. White Beans and Rosemary Crostini

Truth be told, this recipe is more of a dip, but it offers all of the robust texture and refreshing flavor of hummus. Rosemary and fried pancetta give the mashed cannellini beans a rustic edge, as do the toasted baguette slices. Spread some of the bean mixture on top of the toasts for a mingle-friendly appetizer.

5. Hungry, Hungry Artichoke Hummus

This hummus is a pantry-raider’s dream, relying on canned artichoke hearts and chickpeas to cut down on time. For extra-smooth results, give the beans a preliminary mash before pulsing the mix in the food processor.

More Marvelous Mashes from Friends and Family

Napa Farmhouse 1885: Broccoli, Leek and Sweet Potato Mash

Red or Green: Spicy Fava Bean Mash

Jeanette's Healthy Living: Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes with Truffle Oil

Weelicious: Vegan Whipped Coconut Sweet Potatoes

Cooking With Elise: Brown Sugar and Spice Banana Bread

Virtually Homemade: Smashed Cauliflower Gratin with Goat Cheese

Domesticate Me: Chipotle Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Pomegranate-Pistachio Guacamole

Bacon and Souffle: The Best and Smoothest Hummus

The Sensitive Epicure: Trinxat (Pan-Fried Mashed Potato Cake with Swiss Chard)

FN Dish: More to Mash (Side Dish Recipes)