If you’re searching for a quick, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this One Pot Creamy Hummus Pasta Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. Combining the richness of smooth hummus with tender pasta and fresh, vibrant veggies, it’s delightfully simple yet packed with exciting Mediterranean-inspired flavors. The beauty of this dish lies in its ease—minimal cleanup, no complicated steps, and maximum taste. You’ll love how the creamy sauce clings lovingly to every strand of your pasta, making dinner both effortless and memorable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this pasta dish sing. From the garlic’s fragrant warmth to the brightness of lemon juice, every element is essential.
- 12 ounces pasta: Linguine, spaghetti, or penne work beautifully, offering a sturdy base to soak up the creamy hummus sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a silky richness that brings out the garlic’s aroma when sautéed.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a fragrant punch that wakes up the palate and complements the hummus.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle kick to brighten the overall flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning to balance the creamy sauce and pasta perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides subtle depth and a touch of warmth.
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water: This starchy liquid helps to achieve that luscious, smooth sauce consistency.
- 1 cup plain hummus: The star ingredient delivering creaminess, a hint of tang, and a protein boost, making it a lovely dairy-free alternative.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens and lifts the entire dish with a fresh citrus zing.
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Sweet bursts of vibrant color and freshness.
- 2 cups baby spinach: Adds earthiness and a little nutritional powerhouse to the mix.
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional): Finishing touch to add herby vibrance and an inviting look.
How to Make One Pot Creamy Hummus Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package directions. Remember to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining; this little trick will help you create the perfect creamy sauce in the next steps. Set the pasta aside once cooked.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
Using the same pot to save on dishes, heat olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and, if you like a touch of heat, the red pepper flakes. Let them sizzle for 1 to 2 minutes until the kitchen fills with a fragrant, inviting aroma, but be careful not to let the garlic brown or burn.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Hummus Sauce
Turn the heat down to low, then stir in the hummus, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Slowly whisk in the reserved pasta water, allowing the sauce to transform into a smooth, luscious coating for your pasta. This step is key to hitting that creamy perfection that makes the dish so dreamy.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Veggies
Now, add your cooked pasta back into the pot with the hummus sauce. Toss everything together to ensure each noodle is beautifully covered. Then stir in the cherry tomatoes and baby spinach, cooking them just until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes are slightly warmed through. This keeps the veggies fresh and vibrant.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil for an easy, bright garnish. Serve the pasta warm and watch it disappear in moments.
How to Serve One Pot Creamy Hummus Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil are the simplest way to elevate your dish visually and add a burst of fresh, green aroma. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts can also introduce delightful texture and richness.
Side Dishes
This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp salads featuring lemony vinaigrette or roasted vegetables that bring earthy contrasts. For something heartier, garlic bread or warm pita can be perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a lovely dinner party or cozy night in, serve this pasta family-style in a large shallow bowl decorated with colorful cherry tomato halves and herb sprigs. Alternatively, toss in some grilled chicken or crispy tofu cubes for added protein and a more substantial main course.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep any leftover One Pot Creamy Hummus Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors meld beautifully, but the texture is best on day one, as the pasta may soak up the sauce and become less creamy over time.
Freezing
This dish is not ideal for freezing since the texture of the pasta and delicate spinach won’t hold up well. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated and consumed within a couple of days.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, gently reheat the pasta on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and keep the creamy texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use other types of hummus for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using flavored hummus like roasted red pepper or garlic can add exciting new depths to the sauce, giving your pasta a delicious twist every time.
Is this dish suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegan since it uses hummus instead of dairy for creaminess and relies on plant-based ingredients throughout.
What pasta shapes work best for this recipe?
You can use linguine, spaghetti, penne, or any shape that holds sauce well. Just aim for pasta that will evenly coat with the creamy hummus mixture.
Can I add protein to make this a complete meal?
Definitely! Chickpeas, grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu are fantastic add-ins that complement the creamy sauce and bulk up the dish.
How spicy is this recipe?
The heat is entirely up to you. The red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted or omitted depending on your spice tolerance.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this One Pot Creamy Hummus Pasta Recipe, you’ll realize how wonderfully easy it is to whip up a comforting, flavorful dinner without fuss or mess. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you crave something soothing yet vibrant. Go on, dive into this creamy, dreamy bowl of goodness—you might just find your new favorite pasta!
Print
One Pot Creamy Hummus Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This One Pot Creamy Hummus Pasta is a delicious and easy vegan meal that combines tender pasta with a smooth, flavorful hummus sauce. Infused with garlic and a hint of lemon, then tossed with fresh spinach and juicy cherry tomatoes, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that comes together quickly with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta (such as linguine, spaghetti, or penne)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1 cup plain hummus
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Fresh Produce
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups baby spinach
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta. Set pasta aside.
- Sauté garlic and spices: In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using, and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Prepare the hummus sauce: Reduce heat to low. Stir in the hummus, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Gradually whisk in the reserved pasta water until the sauce is smooth and creamy, adjusting the consistency as needed.
- Toss pasta with sauce: Return the cooked pasta to the pot and toss thoroughly to coat it evenly with the creamy hummus sauce.
- Add vegetables and finish cooking: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and baby spinach. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and the tomatoes to warm through.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve warm for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use flavored hummus such as roasted red pepper or garlic for added depth of flavor.
- For extra protein, consider adding chickpeas, grilled chicken, or tofu.
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control spiciness according to preference.
- If the sauce thickens too much upon standing, stir in additional pasta water when reheating.
