If you’re searching for a quick, delicious, and comforting meal, look no further than this One Pot Creamy Hummus Pasta Recipe. It combines tender pasta, vibrant veggies, and the lush creaminess of hummus in one easy pot, creating a symphony of flavors that feels both hearty and wholesome. Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave something warm and satisfying, this recipe delivers big on taste without demanding lots of effort or cleanup. Once you try it, it just might become your new go-to comfort food that’s as delightful as it is effortless.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet essential for crafting the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors. Each item plays a unique role, from the tender pasta to the bright spinach and sweet burst of cherry tomatoes, making this dish not only tasty but a delight to the senses.
- 8 oz pasta of choice: Penne or fusilli work great because they hold the creamy sauce well.
- 1 cup hummus: A creamy, protein-packed base that gives this dish its signature richness.
- 2 cups vegetable broth: Adds depth and moisture to cook the pasta directly in the pot.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: These add a vibrant pop of color and natural sweetness.
- 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped: Provides freshness and a lovely green contrast.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and bringing everything together with a silky finish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a fragrant, savory base flavor.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a warm, smoky undertone.
- ½ teaspoon salt: To bring all the flavors forward perfectly.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: For a subtle kick of spice.
- Fresh parsley or basil (optional): For garnish and a fresh herbal lift.
How to Make One Pot Creamy Hummus Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil and Garlic
Start by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the minced garlic and sauté just until it’s fragrant, about one minute. This gentle cooking releases the garlic’s aromatic oils, setting a flavorful foundation for the dish.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Next, toss in your halved cherry tomatoes and chopped spinach. Cook these for about 3 to 4 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes begin to soften. This step adds freshness and a subtle sweetness that balances the creaminess to come.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Broth with Seasonings
Now’s the time to add your pasta, vegetable broth, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the pot. The broth cooks the pasta right in the pot while infusing it with savory flavor, and the paprika gives a gentle warmth that plays beautifully with the other ingredients.
Step 4: Bring to Boil and Simmer
Turn the heat up to high and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the pasta cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom. You’ll know the pasta is done when it’s tender yet still has a slight bite, or al dente.
Step 5: Stir in the Hummus
Remove the pot from heat and gently stir in the hummus. This is where the magic happens—the pasta becomes luxuriously creamy without needing any heavy cream or cheese. If the sauce feels too thick, simply add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up to your preferred consistency.
Step 6: Taste and Garnish
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper as you see fit. Once perfectly seasoned, garnish with fresh parsley or basil to add a burst of color and herbal brightness. Voilà , your One Pot Creamy Hummus Pasta Recipe is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve One Pot Creamy Hummus Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil not only add a lovely pop of green but also impart refreshing notes that balance the creamy richness. You can also sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to elevate the texture and flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp, simple salad—think mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette—or some crusty garlic bread to mop up the luscious sauce. A light cucumber and tomato salad can also provide a refreshing counterpoint that keeps the meal bright and enjoyable.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, try serving the pasta in a rustic bowl topped with a few whole cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of smoked paprika. Alternatively, plate it alongside grilled vegetables or a vibrant beet salad for a colorful, inviting centerpiece that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover One Pot Creamy Hummus Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for a perfect next-day lunch or quick dinner fix that warms up beautifully without losing its creamy texture.
Freezing
While the pasta can be frozen, the texture of spinach and tomatoes may change slightly after thawing. If you choose to freeze it, use a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month for the best taste. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently. Add a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce and keep everything creamy and smooth, just like freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne and fusilli are recommended because they hold on to the creamy sauce well, feel free to experiment with other shapes like rotini, farfalle, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand.
Is homemade hummus better than store-bought for this dish?
Both work wonderfully! Homemade hummus gives you control over the flavors and freshness, but a good-quality store-bought hummus is a fantastic time-saver and perfectly creamy for this recipe.
Can I add protein to the One Pot Creamy Hummus Pasta Recipe?
Yes! Adding cooked chickpeas, grilled chicken, or sautéed shrimp can boost the protein content and make the dish even heartier. Just stir in your choice of protein along with the hummus at the end.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
This recipe is naturally vegan if you use vegetable broth and hummus made without dairy. Just double-check your broth and hummus ingredients to ensure they fit your dietary preferences.
What can I do if the sauce gets too thick?
Simply add a little warm water or extra vegetable broth, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired sauce consistency. The creamy texture is all about finding the perfect balance.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Creamy Hummus Pasta Recipe is a total game changer when you want a nourishing, comforting meal without the fuss. It’s cozy, creamy, and packed with flavor, all while keeping things simple and satisfying. I promise, once you make this, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. Don’t wait—grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into this deliciously easy pasta adventure!
Print
One Pot Creamy Hummus Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This One Pot Creamy Hummus Pasta is a quick, delicious, and nutritious meal that combines the creaminess of hummus with fresh vegetables and pasta in a single pot. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting, flavorful, and easy to make with minimal cleanup. The recipe uses simple pantry ingredients and fresh spinach and tomatoes to create a satisfying vegetarian dish.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 8 oz (225 g) pasta of choice (penne or fusilli recommended)
- 1 cup hummus (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil leaves
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the aromatics.
- Sauté Garlic: Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and roughly chopped spinach. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the spinach has wilted and the tomatoes are slightly softened.
- Add Pasta and Seasonings: Add 8 oz of your choice of pasta into the pot, then pour in 2 cups of vegetable broth. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper over the ingredients.
- Bring to Boil: Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, ensuring the pasta is fully submerged in the broth.
- Simmer Pasta: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Add Hummus: Remove the pot from heat and stir in 1 cup of hummus until the sauce is creamy and well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water to loosen it.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the pasta and add more salt or pepper if needed to suit your preference.
- Garnish: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves for an extra burst of freshness.
- Enjoy: Share this flavorful, creamy one pot pasta with family or friends, or enjoy it as a comforting solo meal.
Notes
- You can substitute any pasta shape you prefer, but penne or fusilli hold the sauce best.
- Use homemade hummus for a fresher taste or store-bought for convenience.
- If you like a spicier dish, consider adding a pinch of chili flakes.
- Add a splash of water or vegetable broth if the sauce thickens too much after adding hummus.
- This recipe is vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by ensuring the hummus used contains no dairy.
- For extra protein, consider adding cooked chickpeas or grilled tofu.
