Name: Homemade Hummus with Spiced Pita Chips Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: For Spiced Pita Chips:; 4 whole wheat pitas; 3 tbsp olive oil; ½ tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp lemon pepper; sea salt; For Hummus:; 2¼ cups chickpeas; 1 clove garlic; 1 tbsp olive oil; ¼ cup tahini; ¼ cup lemon juice; ¼ cup chickpea liquid; ¼ tsp lemon pepper; sea salt; sprinkle red pepper

This delightful homemade hummus paired with perfectly spiced pita chips creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The creamy, rich hummus complements the crispy, seasoned pita chips, making it an irresistible snack or appetizer. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a healthy treat, this recipe will surely impress.

Photos of Homemade Hummus with Spiced Pita Chips Recipe

Some of the ingredients for this recipe might not be commonly found in your pantry. These include tahini, which is a sesame seed paste, and lemon pepper, a seasoning mixture that combines lemon zest with black pepper. When heading to the supermarket, be sure to grab these items to ensure your hummus and pita chips are seasoned to perfection.

Ingredients For Homemade Hummus With Spiced Pita Chips

Whole wheat pitas: Pita bread made from whole wheat flour, providing a hearty and nutritious base for the chips.

Olive oil: A healthy fat used to brush the pitas, adding flavor and helping them crisp up in the oven.

Garlic powder: A dried and ground form of garlic, used to add a mild garlic flavor to the pita chips.

Lemon pepper: A seasoning blend of lemon zest and black pepper, bringing a zesty and peppery flavor.

Sea salt: A natural salt used to enhance the flavors of the pita chips and hummus.

Chickpeas: Also known as garbanzo beans, these are the primary ingredient in hummus, providing a creamy texture.

Garlic: Fresh garlic clove added to the hummus for a robust and aromatic flavor.

Tahini: A paste made from ground sesame seeds, essential for traditional hummus flavor and consistency.

Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed juice that adds a bright, tangy flavor to the hummus.

Chickpea liquid: The reserved liquid from the canned chickpeas, used to adjust the hummus's consistency.

Red pepper: Sprinkled on top of the hummus for a touch of heat and color.

One reader, Baxter Stallworth says:

This homemade hummus with spiced pita chips recipe is fantastic! The hummus is creamy and flavorful, while the pita chips are perfectly crispy and seasoned. It's a delightful snack that's easy to make and absolutely delicious. Highly recommend!

Baxter Stallworth

Essential Techniques for Making Homemade Hummus and Spiced Pita Chips

How to cut pita into triangles: Use a sharp knife to cut each pita into 8 equal triangles by first cutting the pita in half, then each half into quarters, and finally each quarter into eighths. How to whisk ingredients: Use a small bowl and a whisk to combine the olive oil, garlic powder, and lemon pepper until they are well mixed. How to brush pita with oil mixture: Use a pastry brush to apply the oil mixture evenly on both sides of each pita triangle. How to use a food processor: Place all the hummus ingredients into the food processor and blend until smooth and creamy, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides if necessary. How to adjust seasoning: Gradually add salt and other seasonings to the hummus, tasting as you go, until it reaches your preferred flavor. How to thin hummus: Add more olive oil or reserved chickpea liquid to the hummus while processing to achieve the desired consistency.

How To Make Homemade Hummus with Spiced Pita Chips

This classic homemade hummus is a delicious dip made of chickpeas, garlic, tahini, and lemon juice! It comes served with tasty well-spiced pita chips!

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Spiced Pita Chips:

4wholewheat pitas,or pita pockets
3tbspolive oil
½tspgarlic powder
1tsplemon pepper
sea salt,to taste

For Hummus:

2¼cupschickpeas,cooked, or canned, reserve ¼ cup liquid
1clovegarlic
1tbspolive oil
¼cuptahini
¼cuplemon juice,freshly squeezed
¼cupchickpea liquid,or water, reserved
¼tsplemon pepper
sea salt,to taste
sprinklered pepper,optional, crushed

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Set aside.

Spiced Pita Chips:

Cut each pita into 8 triangles and arrange on the baking sheet.
In a small bowl, whisk the oil, garlic powder, and lemon pepper together until combined.
Brush each pita triangle with the mixture.
Flip each pita triangle over and brush the other side.
Give them a light sprinkle of sea salt.
Bake the pita triangles for 10 minutes, or until browned and crispy.
Allow to cool while preparing the hummus.

Hummus:

Place all ingredients into the food processor (except for the salt) and process until smooth and creamy.
Add the salt gradually until the hummus reaches the preferred taste.
Add more olive oil and/or reserved chickpea liquid to thin out, if desired.
Add more seasonings to desired taste.
Spoon the hummus into a bowl and drizzle with additional olive oil, a sprinkle of lemon pepper, and a couple of additional chickpeas, if desired.
Serve with spiced pita chips and fresh veggies.
Cover tightly and store up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Recipe Notes

If desired, roast the garlic.
White flour pitas instead of whole wheat are okay
Try adding smoked paprika, cumin, sesame seeds, or dried basil to the pita chips and/or the hummus.
Instead of fresh garlic in the hummus, use garlic powder. Add a little at a time to suit desired taste.
If desired, add a couple of drops of hot sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 1622.96kcal
Fat: 60.77g
Saturated Fat: 7.91g
Monounsaturated Fat: 29.57g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 17.74g
Carbohydrates: 218.66g
Fiber: 40.75g
Sugar: 28.47g
Protein: 65.81g
Sodium: 1008.30mg
Calcium: 297.87mg
Potassium: 2146.74mg
Iron: 16.70mg
Vitamin A: 8.89µg
Vitamin C: 22.28mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Homemade Hummus and Spiced Pita Chips

When making hummus, ensure to blend the chickpeas thoroughly for a smoother texture. If the mixture seems too thick, gradually add more chickpea liquid or olive oil until you achieve the desired consistency. This will help create a creamy and luscious dip.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Hummus and Pita Chips at Home

Pre-cook chickpeas: Use canned chickpeas instead of dried ones to save soaking and cooking time.

Batch prep: Make a large batch of hummus and pita chips to have snacks ready for several days.

Use a blender: A high-speed blender can make the hummus smoother and faster than a regular food processor.

Pre-mix spices: Combine the spices for the pita chips ahead of time to streamline the process.

Store properly: Keep hummus and pita chips in airtight containers to maintain freshness and reduce prep time for future snacks.

Substitute Ingredients For Homemade Hummus with Spiced Pita Chips Recipe

whole wheat pitas - Substitute with gluten-free pitas: Suitable for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar healthy fat profile and a high smoke point.
garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Provides a different but complementary flavor profile.
lemon pepper - Substitute with citrus zest and black pepper: Fresh citrus zest and black pepper can mimic the tangy and spicy notes.
sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has a similar texture and salinity.
chickpeas - Substitute with white beans: White beans provide a similar creamy texture and mild flavor.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, slightly sweet flavor that can complement the hummus.
olive oil - Substitute with sesame oil: Adds a nutty flavor that pairs well with the tahini.
tahini - Substitute with sunflower seed butter: Sunflower seed butter provides a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor.
chickpea liquid - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can provide a similar liquid consistency and additional flavor.
lemon pepper - Substitute with black pepper and lemon zest: Fresh lemon zest and black pepper can replicate the tangy and spicy notes.
sea salt - Substitute with Himalayan pink salt: Himalayan pink salt has a similar salinity and mineral content.
red pepper - Substitute with paprika: Paprika provides a similar color and a mild, sweet flavor.

Creative Ways to Serve Homemade Hummus and Spiced Pita Chips

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the hummus in a small, elegant bowl placed at the center of a large, white plate to create a minimalist and sophisticated look.
Use decoration: Garnish the hummus with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of lemon pepper, and a few whole chickpeas for a touch of texture and color.
Elevate the pita chips: Arrange the spiced pita chips in a fan-like pattern around the bowl of hummus, ensuring each chip is evenly spaced and slightly overlapping for a visually appealing presentation.
Add fresh elements: Include a variety of fresh, colorful veggies such as carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and bell pepper strips around the plate to add vibrancy and a healthy touch.
Incorporate height: Stack a few pita chips vertically against the bowl of hummus to add dimension and height to the presentation, making it more dynamic and eye-catching.
Use microgreens: Sprinkle a few microgreens or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro over the hummus and veggies to add a pop of green and a touch of elegance.
Highlight textures: Ensure the pita chips are visibly crispy and the hummus is smooth and creamy, emphasizing the contrast in textures for a more engaging eating experience.
Balance colors: Use a variety of colorful veggies and garnishes to create a balanced and harmonious color palette on the plate, making the dish visually appealing and appetizing.
Attention to detail: Carefully wipe the edges of the plate to remove any smudges or drips, ensuring a clean and professional presentation that meets the standards of culinary professionals.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Hummus and Pita Chips

Oven: Used to bake the pita chips until they are browned and crispy.
Baking sheet: Holds the pita triangles while they bake in the oven.
Parchment paper: Lines the baking sheet to prevent the pita chips from sticking.
Silicone baking mat: An alternative to parchment paper for lining the baking sheet.
Knife: Cuts the whole wheat pitas into triangles.
Small bowl: Used to whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, and lemon pepper for the pita chips.
Whisk: Mixes the oil, garlic powder, and lemon pepper until combined.
Brush: Applies the oil mixture to both sides of the pita triangles.
Food processor: Processes the hummus ingredients until smooth and creamy.
Measuring spoons: Measures out the garlic powder, lemon pepper, and sea salt.
Measuring cups: Measures the chickpeas, olive oil, tahini, lemon juice, and chickpea liquid.
Garlic press: Minces the garlic clove for the hummus.
Serving bowl: Holds the finished hummus for serving.
Spoon: Transfers the hummus into the serving bowl and drizzles additional olive oil on top.
Airtight container: Stores any leftover hummus in the refrigerator.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Hummus and Pita Chips

Homemade hummus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To keep it fresh longer, pour a thin layer of olive oil over the surface of the hummus before sealing the container. This will help prevent it from drying out and developing a skin on top.
If you want to freeze your homemade hummus, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top for expansion. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 4 months. When ready to eat, thaw the hummus overnight in the refrigerator and stir well before serving.
For the spiced pita chips, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To maintain their crispiness, make sure they are completely cooled before storing and avoid placing them in a humid environment.
If you want to freeze the pita chips, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, place the frozen pita chips on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until crispy and warmed through.
When serving the hummus and pita chips after storing or freezing, give the hummus a good stir and taste it to see if it needs any additional lemon juice, olive oil, or seasonings to freshen up the flavors. The pita chips should be crispy and flavorful, but if they have lost some of their crunch, you can briefly reheat them in the oven before serving.

Interesting Trivia About Hummus and Pita Chips

A random fact about this recipe is that hummus is a traditional Middle Eastern dip made from chickpeas, and it is rich in protein and fiber, making it a nutritious and satisfying snack when paired with spiced pita chips.

Is Making Hummus and Pita Chips at Home Cost-Effective?

When it comes to cost-effectiveness, this hummus with spiced pita chips recipe scores an 8 out of 10. The primary ingredients like chickpeas, tahini, and whole wheat pitas are relatively inexpensive and can be found in most grocery stores. The use of olive oil and lemon juice adds a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $10-$12 USD, making it a budget-friendly option for a nutritious and delicious snack.

Is This Hummus and Pita Chip Recipe Healthy?

This homemade hummus with spiced pita chips recipe is a relatively healthy snack option. The hummus itself is packed with nutritious ingredients like chickpeas, which are rich in protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. Tahini, made from sesame seeds, provides healthy fats and additional protein. The lemon juice and garlic add flavor while also offering some vitamin C and antioxidants.

The whole wheat pitas used for the chips are a better choice than refined white pitas, as they provide more fiber and nutrients. However, the chips are still a source of added oil and salt, which should be consumed in moderation.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the hummus and pita chips, or opt for a light drizzle instead of brushing the pitas thoroughly
Use a salt-free lemon pepper seasoning to cut down on sodium content
Experiment with other spices like cumin, paprika, or za'atar to add flavor without relying on salt
Serve the hummus with a variety of fresh, raw vegetables like carrot sticks, bell pepper slices, and cucumber rounds to increase the nutrient density of the snack
Prepare the pita chips in an air fryer instead of the oven to reduce the amount of oil needed for crisping

By making these small adjustments, you can enhance the overall nutritional value of this tasty and satisfying snack while still enjoying the flavors and textures that make it so appealing.

Editor's Opinion on This Homemade Hummus and Spiced Pita Chip Recipe

This homemade hummus with spiced pita chips recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The whole wheat pita chips, seasoned with garlic powder and lemon pepper, provide a perfect crunchy complement to the creamy, tangy hummus. The use of chickpea liquid in the hummus adds a smooth consistency, while the red pepper sprinkle gives it a subtle kick. The recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it accessible for home cooks. Overall, it's a nutritious and tasty snack or appetizer that can be enjoyed with fresh veggies or on its own.

Enhance Your Homemade Hummus with Spiced Pita Chips Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Vegetable Medley: Imagine a colorful array of carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers, all roasted to perfection with a hint of thyme and rosemary. This vibrant dish not only complements the creamy hummus but also adds a burst of flavor and texture to your appetizer spread.

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A delightful mix of quinoa, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and kalamata olives, tossed in a zesty lemon and olive oil dressing. This salad brings a refreshing and nutritious balance to your hummus and pita chips.

Stuffed Grape Leaves: Tender grape leaves filled with a savory blend of rice, pine nuts, and herbs. These little parcels of goodness are a perfect match for the hummus, offering a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.

Tabbouleh: A refreshing salad made with bulgur wheat, parsley, mint, and tomatoes, all finely chopped and mixed with a lemon and olive oil dressing. This dish adds a light and zesty note to your appetizer spread.

Baba Ganoush: A smoky and creamy eggplant dip that pairs beautifully with the hummus. The richness of the baba ganoush complements the spiced pita chips and creates a harmonious blend of flavors.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Hummus and Pita Chips

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus with Garlic Pita Chips: Dive into the smoky and sweet flavors of roasted red peppers blended into creamy hummus. Pair it with garlic-infused pita chips for an irresistible snack.

Baba Ganoush with Za'atar Pita Chips: Experience the rich, smoky taste of eggplant in this classic Middle Eastern dip. Serve it with crispy pita chips dusted with aromatic za'atar seasoning.

Tzatziki with Herb Pita Chips: Enjoy the refreshing and tangy flavors of Greek yogurt, cucumber, and dill in this creamy dip. Complement it with pita chips sprinkled with a blend of dried herbs.

Muhammara with Sumac Pita Chips: Savor the bold and spicy flavors of this red pepper and walnut dip. Pair it with pita chips seasoned with tangy sumac for a delightful contrast.

Spinach Artichoke Dip with Parmesan Pita Chips: Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of spinach and artichoke dip. Serve it with pita chips baked with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Perfect Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Hummus and Pita Chips

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the zesty flavors of lemon and the aromatic notes of fresh herbs. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a blend of herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Grill the chicken until it’s perfectly charred and juicy. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. This dish is perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner.

Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu: Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu is a vibrant and healthy option that’s packed with a variety of colorful vegetables and protein-rich tofu. Sauté a mix of bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, and carrots in a hot wok with sesame oil and garlic. Add in cubes of tofu that have been marinated in a soy sauce and ginger mixture. Toss everything together with a splash of hoisin sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a warm, molten chocolate center encased in a delicate, cake shell. This dessert is a symphony of textures and flavors, perfect for those who crave a rich, decadent treat. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the intense chocolate flavor. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of raspberry coulis can add a touch of elegance and a burst of complementary flavor. This dessert is sure to impress and satisfy any sweet tooth.

Lemon Meringue Pie: This classic dessert combines a tangy lemon curd filling with a light, fluffy meringue topping. The crust is buttery and flaky, providing the perfect base for the zesty lemon filling. The meringue is whipped to perfection, creating a cloud-like texture that contrasts beautifully with the smooth lemon curd. Serve it chilled for a refreshing end to any meal. A garnish of lemon zest or a few fresh berries can add a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor. This dessert is a delightful balance of sweet and tart, making it a favorite for any occasion.

Why trust this Homemade Hummus with Spiced Pita Chips Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich, creamy texture of hummus with the satisfying crunch of spiced pita chips. Using fresh, wholesome ingredients like chickpeas, tahini, and lemon juice, it ensures a delightful and healthy snack. The garlic powder and lemon pepper add a unique twist to the pita chips, making them irresistibly flavorful. Easy to follow and quick to prepare, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Trust in the simplicity and quality of these ingredients to deliver a delicious, homemade treat.

Want to share your own twist on this homemade hummus with spiced pita chips recipe? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum and join the conversation!

FAQ:

How do I store leftover hummus and pita chips?

I usually cover the hummus tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For the pita chips, I keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days to maintain their crispiness.

Can I use canned chickpeas for the hummus?

Absolutely! I often use canned chickpeas for convenience. Just make sure to drain and rinse them well, but save some of the liquid to use in the hummus.

What can I use if I don't have tahini?

If you don't have tahini, you can substitute it with a similar amount of peanut butter or sunflower seed butter. It will change the flavor slightly, but it still tastes great.

How can I make the pita chips spicier?

If you like a bit more heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some smoked paprika to the oil mixture before brushing it on the pita triangles.

Can I make the hummus without a food processor?

Yes, you can! If you don't have a food processor, you can use a blender. Just blend in small batches and add a bit more liquid if needed to get a smooth consistency.