The Ultimate Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Hummus: Your New Go-To Dip

Experience the vibrant flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil blended into a smooth, creamy hummus. Featuring organic Turkish tomato halves, nutrient-rich chickpeas, rich tahini, and a blend of savory seasonings, this dip is perfect for energizing snacks, entertaining, or enhancing any meal. Enjoy it with your favorite veggies, crackers, pita chips, or straight from the spoon!

Welcome, food lovers! If you’re searching for a dip that’s both incredibly flavorful and wonderfully healthy, you’ve come to the right place. Today, we’re diving into the creation of a truly exceptional Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Hummus. This recipe isn’t just another dip; it’s a vibrant explosion of taste that combines the sweet intensity of sun-dried tomatoes with the aromatic freshness of basil, all in a velvety smooth, plant-based package. Whether you’re a hummus connoisseur or new to making your own, this recipe is designed to be straightforward, satisfying, and utterly delicious.

Hummus, a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, has gained global popularity for its versatility and nutritional benefits. Traditionally made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, it serves as a fantastic source of plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats. This particular rendition elevates the classic by incorporating sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil, adding layers of complex flavor and a beautiful, inviting color. It’s the kind of snack that makes you feel good about what you’re eating, providing sustained energy and delightful taste in every bite.

Why This Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Hummus Will Be Your New Favorite

There’s a certain magic that happens when sun-dried tomatoes meet fresh basil, and when that combination is folded into creamy hummus, it creates an unforgettable experience. This isn’t just a snack; it’s a versatile culinary tool. Imagine spreading it on a sandwich, dolloping it onto a vibrant salad bowl, or simply enjoying it as a satisfying dip during your busiest days. It’s savory, slightly sweet, tangy, and incredibly fresh, making it suitable for almost any occasion.

The beauty of homemade hummus lies in its simplicity and the control you have over the ingredients. Unlike many store-bought varieties that can be loaded with unnecessary oils and preservatives, this recipe focuses on whole, natural components. It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and can be made entirely oil-free, aligning perfectly with a health-conscious lifestyle without compromising on taste. Its rich texture and bold flavor make it an instant crowd-pleaser, perfect for entertaining guests or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon with a wholesome snack.

The Inspiration Behind This Irresistible Dip

The journey to creating this delightful sun-dried tomato and basil hummus began, as many great recipes do, with a moment of pure hunger and unexpected discovery. Recently, after an invigorating but somewhat unprepared hiking adventure – where I learned the hard way about the importance of proper footwear and, crucially, enough savory snacks! – I found myself at a local winery. Amidst the usual offerings, a container of sun-dried tomato hummus caught my eye. My hunger-clouded judgment declared it the best thing I had eaten all week. That unforgettable taste sparked a mission: to recreate that bright orange, savory spread for everyone to enjoy at home.

While I’ve explored many hummus variations, the sun-dried tomato and basil combination was a new frontier. I wanted a hummus that was not only robust in tomato flavor but also brightened by fresh herbs. The initial thought quickly evolved into a quest for the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and herbaceous notes. The result is a hummus that truly stands out, capturing the essence of that inspiring moment while offering a fresh, homemade touch that’s simply unparalleled.

Key Ingredients for the Best Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Hummus

Crafting this incredible hummus is surprisingly simple, requiring just a handful of quality ingredients that work harmoniously to create a rich and satisfying dip. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to achieve that perfect blend of flavor and texture:

• Canned Chickpeas: The foundation of any great hummus. Make sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly to remove excess sodium and achieve a cleaner flavor. For an extra smooth consistency, some prefer to peel the chickpeas, but it’s an optional step that adds time.
• Runny Tahini: This sesame paste is critical for hummus’s signature creaminess and nutty flavor. The runnier your tahini, the smoother your hummus will be. Look for brands that have a pourable consistency and minimal bitterness.
• Fruit Bliss Organic Turkish Tomato Halves: These are the stars of the show! We’ll delve deeper into why these specific tomatoes are a game-changer below, but for now, know that their soft, juicy texture and intense flavor are key to this hummus.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Always opt for freshly squeezed lemon juice. Its bright, acidic notes cut through the richness of the tahini and chickpeas, lifting all the flavors and adding essential tang.
• Garlic Powder: While fresh garlic is often used, garlic powder offers a consistent, mellow garlic flavor without the sharpness that raw garlic can sometimes impart, ensuring a smooth blend.
• Smoked Paprika: This spice adds a beautiful depth and a subtle smoky warmth, complementing the sweetness of the sun-dried tomatoes without overpowering them. It also contributes to the hummus’s inviting orange hue.
• Filtered Water: Essential for achieving your desired smooth and creamy consistency. You’ll add this gradually to control the texture.
• Fresh Basil: The vibrant aroma and peppery-sweet notes of fresh basil are indispensable. A generous handful provides that burst of herbaceous freshness that truly makes this “tomato and basil” hummus sing.

When selecting your ingredients, prioritize quality. Freshness in basil and a good quality, runny tahini will make a significant difference in the final product. These simple components, when combined with care, create a truly gourmet experience.

The Secret Weapon: Fruit Bliss Organic Turkish Tomato Halves

Let’s talk about the game-changing ingredient in this recipe: Fruit Bliss Organic Turkish Tomato Halves. For years, like many, I relied on sun-dried tomatoes packed in heavy oils, or dried varieties that were tough, chewy, and lacked real flavor. They often felt more like leathery jerky than a succulent fruit, leaving much to be desired in terms of taste and texture when incorporated into recipes.

Then I discovered Fruit Bliss, and it was a revelation. Their packaging touts them as “soft & juicy,” and that’s truly an understatement. What makes these tomatoes exceptional is their unique preparation: they are water-packed and rehydrated, resulting in an incredibly tender, plump, and juicy texture that is unlike any other “sun-dried” tomato you’ve ever encountered. This method preserves their natural sweetness and vibrant tomato flavor, ensuring they blend seamlessly into your hummus, rather than leaving chewy bits.

Beyond their superior texture and taste, Fruit Bliss Organic Turkish Tomato Halves align with many dietary preferences and health goals. They are Non-GMO, USDA organic, gluten-free, vegan, and kosher. This commitment to quality and natural processing means you’re adding not just flavor, but also wholesome goodness to your hummus. Their soft pliability makes them ideal for blending into a smooth dip, and they infuse every bite with that intense, salty-sweet sun-drenched tomato taste we crave.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Hummus Consistency and Flavor

Making Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Hummus is incredibly straightforward, but a few simple tips can elevate your homemade dip from good to absolutely phenomenal:

• Start with Runny Tahini: As mentioned, this is key for a super smooth hummus. If your tahini is too thick, you might need to add a bit more water or even a tiny amount of neutral oil (if not strictly oil-free) to loosen it before blending with other ingredients.
• Blend, Blend, Blend: Don’t rush the process. For that ultra-creamy, silky-smooth texture, process all your ingredients in a high-speed blender or food processor until no chunks remain. It might take a few minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl periodically to ensure everything is incorporated evenly.
• Add Water Gradually: The amount of filtered water needed can vary depending on your tahini’s consistency and how juicy your sun-dried tomatoes are. Start with the recommended amount and add more, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your ideal creaminess. Some like their hummus thick, while others prefer it thinner for spreading.
• Layer the Tomatoes: I’ve found a trick to add extra texture and visual appeal: add half of the Fruit Bliss sun-dried tomatoes at the beginning of the blending process for smooth incorporation, and then add the second half towards the very end. This allows some of the tomatoes to remain in small, delightful chunks, providing a pleasant textural contrast to the smooth dip.
• Taste and Adjust: This is perhaps the most important tip! Before serving, taste your hummus and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want a pinch more salt, an extra squeeze of lemon juice for brightness, or a dash more smoked paprika for depth. Personalizing the flavor to your preference is what makes homemade hummus so special.

Creative Ways to Serve Your Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Hummus

Once your creamy, flavorful Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Hummus is ready, the possibilities for enjoying it are endless! This versatile dip is not only incredibly delicious but also perfect for a variety of uses:

• Classic Dip: Serve it with an assortment of fresh-cut vegetables like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, and celery. It’s also fantastic with pita bread, pita chips, crackers, or even sturdy tortilla chips.
• Spread: Elevate your sandwiches and wraps by using this hummus as a spread instead of mayonnaise or other condiments. It adds a burst of flavor and a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with fresh greens, grilled vegetables, or plant-based proteins.
• Bowl Booster: Add a generous dollop to your grain bowls, buddha bowls, or salad bowls for an extra layer of flavor and a boost of protein and healthy fats. It melds beautifully with roasted vegetables, quinoa, rice, and leafy greens.
• Sauce Alternative: Thin it out slightly with a bit more water or lemon juice to create a creamy sauce for pasta dishes, roasted vegetables, or even as a base for flatbread pizzas.
• Breakfast/Brunch: Don’t limit hummus to lunch or dinner! Spread it on toast or a bagel, top with avocado slices, a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning, or some extra fresh basil for a savory breakfast.
• By the Spoonful: Let’s be honest, sometimes it’s just so good you can’t help but enjoy it straight from the spoon! No judgment here.

For an extra touch of gourmet presentation and flavor, I love to garnish my hummus with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil (if not strictly oil-free), some torn fresh basil leaves, and a few finely diced pieces of sun-dried tomato. These garnishes add visual appeal, enhance the aroma, and provide delightful textural variations.

This hummus is also excellent for meal prepping. Make a larger batch at the beginning of the week, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to seven days. This way, you’ll always have a healthy, delicious snack or meal component ready to go!

More Delicious Hummus Recipes to Explore

If you’ve fallen in love with homemade hummus, there’s a whole world of variations to discover! Here are some other fantastic hummus recipes to inspire your culinary adventures:

• The Best Oil-Free Hummus

• Raw Carrot Hummus

• Easy Beet Hummus

• Spicy Black Bean Hummus

• Sunny SunButter Hummus

• 5-Ingredient Pumpkin Hummus

• Chickpea Free Purple Sweet Potato Hummus

• Date Sweetened Chocolate Hummus

• Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

Share Your Creations!

I absolutely love seeing your culinary masterpieces! If you make this Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Hummus recipe, please don’t hesitate to share your experience. Leave a comment, rating, and review below – your feedback helps me create even more delicious content for you. You can also give me a shout-out on Instagram and use #floraandvino to show off your beautiful creations. For more recipe inspiration, be sure to check out my Pinterest page and pin this recipe to save for later. Want to stay updated with all the latest plant-based recipes and healthy living tips? Head over to my homepage and subscribe to get updates delivered straight to your inbox!

XO Lauren

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