Roasted Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus: A Bold Twist on Classic Dips

Roasted Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus tired of the same old plain hummus that lacks excitement and depth? As a passionate culinary artist who thrives on reimagining traditional dishes, I’ve discovered the perfect solution to transform your appetizer game forever. This vibrant, smoky-sweet creation combines the natural sweetness of caramelized butternut squash with the fiery complexity of North African harissa, creating a hummus that’s anything but ordinary.

Hi there! I’m Michael, and over the years of crafting inventive recipes that bring people together, I’ve learned that the most memorable dishes often come from unexpected flavor combinations. This Roasted Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus represents everything I love about culinary creativity it takes familiar ingredients and elevates them into something extraordinary that lingers in your memory long after the last bite.

Having developed expertise in recipe creation with a focus on adaptable, flavorful dishes, I can promise you this hummus delivers on multiple fronts: incredible depth of flavor, stunning presentation, and complete versatility for any dietary preference. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share my techniques for selecting the perfect squash, balancing heat levels, achieving silky texture, and serving suggestions that will make this the star of any gathering.

Why This Roasted Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus Recipe Works

This Roasted Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus revolutionizes traditional hummus through three key innovations that address every common hummus complaint:

• Uses affordable, seasonal ingredients: Butternut squash is budget-friendly, especially during fall and winter months, while canned chickpeas provide consistent protein and creaminess year-round

• Achieves perfect texture in 15 minutes of prep: The roasting process caramelizes the squash naturally, eliminating the need for complex flavor-building techniques while creating incredible depth

• Perfect for entertaining or meal prep: This vibrant orange hummus serves 6-8 people generously and actually improves in flavor when stored, making it ideal for both spontaneous gatherings and planned events

The genius lies in how roasted butternut squash transforms traditional hummus. The natural sugars caramelize during roasting, creating complexity that pairs beautifully with harissa’s smoky heat. Unlike plain hummus that can feel heavy, this version maintains lightness while delivering satisfying richness.

Choosing the Right Butternut Squash for Harissa Hummus

Best Squash Selection for This Recipe

When crafting Roasted Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus, selecting quality squash makes all the difference. Look for medium-sized butternut squash (2-3 pounds) with a long neck and small bulb this ratio provides more sweet flesh and fewer seeds. The skin should be matte, not shiny, indicating full ripeness, and feel heavy for its size.

Buying Tips for Perfect Results

Visit your local market and examine each squash carefully. The stem should be intact and dried (not fresh-cut), while the skin should be free of soft spots or deep scratches. A slight beige color is perfect avoid overly green squash which lacks sweetness. Ask produce staff about delivery dates; squash that’s been sitting for 2-3 weeks actually develops better flavor than freshly harvested ones.

Smart Substitutions for Year-Round Enjoyment

Can’t find quality butternut squash? Sweet potato works beautifully in this Roasted Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus, though it requires slightly less roasting time. Delicata squash offers similar sweetness with thinner skin that doesn’t require peeling. For summer variations, try roasted carrots or golden beets for different but equally delicious results.

Ingredients & Prep for Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus

Complete Ingredient List

Serves 6–8

For the Roasted Squash:

• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1–2 Tbsp olive oil
• Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Hummus Base:

• 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can chickpeas, drained & rinsed (reserve 2–3 Tbsp liquid)
• 3 Tbsp tahini
• 2–3 Tbsp harissa paste (adjust to desired heat)
• 2 cloves garlic, roasted or fresh
• 2–3 Tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
• 2–3 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (for blending)
• ½ tsp ground cumin (optional)
• 2–4 Tbsp cold water or reserved chickpea liquid, as needed

For Garnish:

• Drizzle of olive oil
• Sprinkle of smoked paprika
• Toasted pumpkin seeds or fresh parsley

Squash Prep Essentials

Proper preparation elevates your Roasted Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus from good to extraordinary. Start by peeling the squash with a sturdy vegetable peeler, working from top to bottom in long strokes. Cut into uniform 1-inch cubes consistency ensures even roasting and prevents some pieces from burning while others remain undercooked.

Harissa Selection and Heat Management

Harissa paste varies dramatically between brands, so start conservatively with 2 tablespoons and adjust upward. North African harissa tends to be more complex and less purely spicy than some commercial versions. For homemade control, look for harissa containing roasted red peppers, garlic, caraway, and coriander. Store opened harissa in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.

Pantry Staples That Make the Difference

Quality tahini creates the foundation of smooth Roasted Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus. Choose well-stirred tahini without oil separation, and always taste before using rancid tahini ruins the entire batch. Fresh lemon juice brightens the earthy flavors, while good olive oil for finishing adds richness and helps marry all flavors together.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus

Pre-Cooking Prep for Perfect Harissa Hummus

Begin your Roasted Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus by preheating your oven to 400°F. Pat cubed butternut squash completely dry with paper towels moisture prevents proper caramelization. Toss with olive oil until every piece glistens, then season generously with salt and pepper. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even heating.

Roasting Method for Maximum Flavor

Spread squash cubes in a single layer, ensuring no pieces overlap. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping once halfway through. The squash is ready when edges turn golden brown and pieces yield easily to a fork. This caramelization process concentrates flavors essential for outstanding Roasted Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus.

Blending Technique for Silky Texture

Allow roasted squash to cool slightly before adding to your food processor along with drained chickpeas, tahini, harissa paste, garlic, and lemon juice. Process continuously for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth. The key to perfect Roasted Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus is patience during blending.

Final Texture Adjustment

With the processor running, slowly drizzle in cold water or reserved chickpea liquid until you achieve your desired consistency. For entertaining, aim for a texture that holds its shape when dolloped but spreads easily. Taste and adjust harissa for heat, lemon juice for brightness, and salt for overall flavor balance.

Pro Tips for Perfect Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus

Avoiding Common Texture Issues

Never add liquid too quickly when making Roasted Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus this creates a watery consistency that’s difficult to fix. If your hummus becomes too thin, add more chickpeas or tahini. For gritty texture, ensure your food processor blade is sharp and process longer than you think necessary.

Essential Tool Recommendations

A powerful food processor makes all the difference in achieving restaurant-quality Roasted Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus. A 7-cup capacity handles this recipe perfectly. Keep a bench scraper handy for transferring ingredients and cleaning bowls efficiently. An offset spatula helps create beautiful swirls when serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Strategies

This Roasted Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus actually improves after 24 hours as flavors meld. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Before serving, let it come to room temperature for 30 minutes and stir gently. For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Flavor Variations for Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus

Heat Level Adjustments

Transform your Roasted Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus heat profile by starting with 1 tablespoon harissa for mild heat, or boost to 4 tablespoons for serious fire. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for pure heat, or incorporate chipotle paste for smoky complexity. For cooling contrast, stir in 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt.

Dietary Adaptations

This Roasted Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus naturally accommodates multiple dietary needs. It’s already vegan, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly when served with vegetables. For keto adaptation, reduce chickpeas and increase tahini. Add hemp hearts or sunflower seeds for extra protein and texture variety.

Global Flavor Inspirations

Serving Suggestions for Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus

Presentation elevates your Roasted Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus from simple snack to impressive appetizer. Spread in a shallow bowl, create swirls with the back of a spoon, then drizzle with good olive oil. Garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds, smoked paprika, or fresh parsley for color contrast and textural interest.

Pair this vibrant hummus with warm pita triangles, fresh vegetables like cucumber rounds and bell pepper strips, or artisanal crackers. For wine pairings, choose a crisp Sauvignon Blanc to balance the heat, or a light Pinot Noir that complements the squash’s sweetness. Beer lovers should try wheat beers or Belgian-style ales.

FAQs About Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus

Can I make this Roasted Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus with frozen squash? Yes, but thaw and drain thoroughly first. Pat completely dry before roasting to achieve proper caramelization.

How do I fix overly spicy hummus? Balance excess heat in your Roasted Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus by adding more roasted squash, chickpeas, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for cooling richness.

Is this recipe safe for pregnant women? Absolutely! This Roasted Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus contains no raw ingredients or unpasteurized products, making it perfectly safe during pregnancy.

Conclusion

Fire up your oven and experience the magic of Roasted Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus tonight! This recipe represents everything I love about culinary creativity taking familiar ingredients and transforming them into something extraordinary that brings people together around the table.

Join the FoodyDish.com community and thousands of home cooks who’ve discovered how this vibrant, flavorful hummus elevates any gathering from ordinary to memorable. The combination of sweet caramelized squash and complex harissa creates a dip that’s become a signature request at every party I attend.

you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends or save it to try later! 

I’d be thrilled to see your personal touch share your photos on If Pinterest

Roasted Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus: A Bold Twist on Classic Dips

---

• Author: Michael
• Total Time: 40 mins
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Creamy hummus blended with roasted butternut squash and smoky harissa for a bold, flavorful dip.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 cups roasted butternut squash

1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

2 tbsp tahini

2 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp harissa paste

2 garlic cloves

2 tbsp lemon juice

Salt to taste

Paprika for garnish

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Peel, cube, and roast butternut squash with olive oil and salt for 30 minutes.

3. Add squash, chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and harissa paste to food processor.

4. Blend until smooth while streaming in olive oil.

5. Adjust seasoning with salt, lemon juice, or harissa.

6. Serve with paprika and extra olive oil drizzle.

Notes

Chill for 20 minutes before serving for best flavor. Store up to 5 days refrigerated.

• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 30 mins
• Category: Appetizer, Dip
• Method: Roasting, Blending
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 cup
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 280mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Roasted Butternut Squash Harissa Hummus, hummus, dip, vegan appetizer