Pumpkin sage hummus with pita chips is a delicious, savory twist on traditional hummus, perfect for the fall season. This creamy dip combines the earthy flavor of pumpkin with the herbaceous note of fresh sage, creating a delightful appetizer that’s ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. Serve it with crispy pita chips, fresh veggies, or crackers, and you have a unique, crowd-pleasing snack that’s healthy and packed with flavor.

In this guide, we’ll cover how to make pumpkin sage hummus from scratch, plus tips on enhancing the flavor and presentation for the ultimate autumn-inspired dip.

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1. Ingredients for Pumpkin Sage Hummus with Pita Chips

Here’s what you’ll need to make this seasonal hummus:

For the Hummus

• Chickpeas – 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
• Pumpkin Puree – 1/2 cup (not pumpkin pie filling)
• Olive Oil – 2-3 tablespoons, plus more for garnish
• Tahini – 2 tablespoons (adds creaminess and richness)
• Garlic – 1 clove, minced
• Fresh Sage – 4-5 leaves, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried sage)
• Lemon Juice – 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed
• Ground Cumin – 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt and Black Pepper – to taste
• Paprika – for garnish, optional

For the Pita Chips

• Pita Bread – 4 rounds, cut into triangles
• Olive Oil – 1-2 tablespoons
• Salt and Black Pepper – to taste
• Dried Sage or Thyme – optional, for added flavor

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2. Step-by-Step Instructions for Pumpkin Sage Hummus with Pita Chips

Follow these simple steps to make a creamy, flavorful pumpkin sage hummus with crispy pita chips:

Step 1: Prepare the Hummus

1. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, pumpkin puree, tahini, garlic, sage, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pulse the ingredients until they’re well combined.
3. While processing, slowly drizzle in the olive oil, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the hummus reaches your desired creamy consistency.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, lemon juice, or sage to enhance the flavors.

Step 2: Make the Pita Chips

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Arrange the pita triangles in a single layer on the baking sheet.
3. Brush each triangle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a little dried sage or thyme if desired.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the pita chips are golden and crispy. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Serve and Garnish

1. Transfer the pumpkin sage hummus to a serving bowl.
2. Drizzle a little extra olive oil on top and sprinkle with paprika or a few extra chopped sage leaves for garnish.
3. Serve with the pita chips, fresh veggies, or crackers, and enjoy!

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3. Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Sage Hummus

3.1 Use Quality Tahini

Good-quality tahini makes a big difference in hummus, adding creaminess and richness.

3.2 Fresh Sage for the Best Flavor

Fresh sage has a more vibrant flavor than dried, so use it if possible. A little goes a long way.

3.3 Adjust the Texture

If you prefer a smoother hummus, add an extra tablespoon of olive oil or a splash of water to thin it out.

3.4 Use Canned Pumpkin Puree

Make sure to use plain pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, as pie filling contains spices and sweeteners.

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4. Flavor Variations

4.1 Spicy Pumpkin Hummus

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.

4.2 Smoky Pumpkin Hummus

Add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika for a warm, smoky flavor that complements the pumpkin and sage.

4.3 Herbed Pumpkin Hummus

Add a sprinkle of fresh rosemary or thyme along with the sage for a more herbaceous flavor.

4.4 Maple Pumpkin Hummus

For a hint of sweetness, add 1 teaspoon of maple syrup to the hummus for a subtle fall twist.

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5. Serving Suggestions

Pumpkin sage hummus pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Here are some serving ideas:

• With Fresh Veggies: Serve with sliced carrots, bell peppers, cucumber, or celery for a healthy, fresh pairing.
• With Crackers: Use whole-grain or multigrain crackers for added crunch.
• On a Charcuterie Board: Include on a board with cheeses, meats, fruits, and nuts for a beautiful appetizer spread.
• As a Sandwich Spread: Use it as a flavorful spread in sandwiches or wraps.

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6. Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors may intensify as it sits, making it even tastier the next day.

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7. Making Ahead for Gatherings

Pumpkin sage hummus is great for preparing ahead:

1. Make the Hummus: Prepare the hummus up to two days in advance and refrigerate in an airtight container.
2. Make the Pita Chips: Bake the pita chips the day before and store in an airtight container at room temperature.
3. Assemble Just Before Serving: Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl, garnish, and serve with the pita chips.

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FAQ

1. Can I make pumpkin hummus without tahini?

Yes, you can substitute tahini with Greek yogurt, nut butter, or even a bit more olive oil, though the flavor will vary slightly.

2. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! Roast fresh pumpkin until tender, then mash or puree it to use in the recipe.

3. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan if you use plant-based pita chips or veggies for dipping.

4. Can I freeze pumpkin hummus?

Yes, store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator and stir well before serving.

5. How do I make the hummus creamier?

Adding a little more tahini, olive oil, or water can help achieve a smoother, creamier texture.

6. Can I add garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, use about 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder in place of fresh garlic if preferred.

7. What other chips go well with pumpkin sage hummus?

Try serving with tortilla chips, pretzels, or whole-grain crackers for a different crunch.

8. Can I use other herbs besides sage?

Yes, rosemary, thyme, or even a bit of parsley add lovely herbal notes to the hummus.

9. How do I keep pita chips crispy?

Let pita chips cool completely before storing in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness.

10. Is pumpkin sage hummus gluten-free?

Yes, the hummus is naturally gluten-free; just use gluten-free dippers like veggies or gluten-free crackers.

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Pumpkin sage hummus with pita chips is a flavorful, seasonal appetizer that’s perfect for any fall occasion. This creamy, herb-infused dip is easy to make, packed with nutritious ingredients, and bursting with the earthy flavors of pumpkin and sage. Enjoy this unique twist on hummus with friends and family for a memorable autumn treat!