It happens to the best of us. You buy or make a generous batch of creamy, dreamy hummus, enjoy it with pita bread and veggies for a day or two, and then… it sits. That container of leftover hummus stares back at you from the fridge shelf, a silent plea not to be forgotten or, worse, wasted. Fear not! That chickpea champion is far more versatile than just a dip. Getting creative with leftover hummus can unlock a world of flavor and prevent food waste, turning that potential discard into delicious dinners, lunches, and snacks.
Beyond the Dip: Spreading the Love
The most straightforward way to repurpose hummus is to think beyond the dipping bowl. Its creamy texture and savory profile make it an excellent spread, adding moisture and flavor to various carriers.
Sandwich and Wrap Superstar
Move over, mayonnaise and mustard. Hummus provides a fantastic base layer for sandwiches and wraps. It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, falafel, turkey slices, feta cheese, and plenty of fresh greens like spinach or arugula. Try spreading a thick layer on whole-wheat bread, then topping with sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and sprouts for a refreshing veggie sandwich. In a wrap, combine hummus with leftover shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of chili powder for a Southwestern twist. Different hummus flavors open up even more possibilities – roasted red pepper hummus adds sweetness to a turkey wrap, while a spicy variant kicks up a veggie sandwich.
Unexpected Pizza Base
Forget tomato sauce for a night and try hummus as your pizza base. Spread it evenly over your pizza dough or a pre-baked crust (like naan or pita bread). Top with Mediterranean-inspired ingredients like Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, artichoke hearts, spinach, and a drizzle of olive oil before baking. It creates a creamy, savory foundation that’s a delightful departure from the usual. Garlic hummus works particularly well here, adding an aromatic depth.
Elevated Toast Topping
Avocado toast is great, but hummus toast deserves its moment too! Simply toast your favorite bread (sourdough, rye, multigrain) and slather it generously with hummus. From there, the options are endless. Top it with a sprinkle of za’atar, red pepper flakes, everything bagel seasoning, or fresh herbs like parsley or dill. Add sliced radishes, cherry tomatoes, a poached or fried egg, or crumbled feta for a more substantial snack or light meal. It’s quick, satisfying, and a fantastic way to use up smaller amounts of hummus.
Sauce Sensations and Dressing Delights
Hummus can be thinned out or incorporated into other liquids to create surprisingly delicious sauces and dressings, adding creaminess without dairy.
Quick Creamy Salad Dressing
Whisk leftover hummus with lemon juice, olive oil, and a splash of water until you reach your desired consistency. Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and maybe some dried oregano or minced garlic for extra flavor. This creates a simple, tangy, and creamy dressing that’s perfect for green salads, grain bowls, or even drizzled over roasted vegetables. You can adjust the thickness easily by adding more water or olive oil. A little Dijon mustard can also add a nice kick.
Pasta Power-Up
Stir a few spoonfuls of hummus into your favorite pasta sauce – whether tomato-based or olive oil-based – near the end of cooking. It adds a velvety texture and subtle richness. Alternatively, create a dedicated hummus pasta sauce by thinning hummus with some reserved pasta water, lemon juice, and olive oil. Toss with cooked pasta and additions like wilted spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted broccoli, or grilled shrimp. It’s a quick way to whip up a creamy pasta dish without heavy cream.
Flavorful Marinade Component
Hummus can act as a binder and flavor base in marinades. Combine it with olive oil, lemon juice or vinegar, garlic, herbs (like rosemary or thyme), and spices. Use it to marinate chicken breasts, thighs, tofu cubes, or even hearty vegetables like zucchini or eggplant before grilling, baking, or pan-frying. The hummus helps the flavors adhere and keeps the protein or veggies moist during cooking.
Handle Leftovers Safely! Always store leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Pay attention to the expiration date if store-bought, or consume homemade hummus within 3-5 days. Before using leftovers, check for any off smells, unusual colors, or mold – when in doubt, throw it out.
Integrating into Cooked Creations
Don’t hesitate to stir hummus directly into warm dishes for an instant boost of flavor and texture.
Soup and Stew Thickener
Got a soup or stew that’s a little thin? Stirring in some hummus towards the end of the cooking time can help thicken it while adding a creamy, earthy flavor. It works particularly well in vegetable soups, lentil stews, or even chili. Start with a small amount and add more until you reach the desired consistency and taste. Ensure the soup doesn’t boil vigorously after adding the hummus, as high heat can sometimes affect the texture.
Creamy Eggs without Cream
Whisk a tablespoon or two of hummus into your eggs before scrambling them or making an omelet. It adds a subtle tang and creaminess, making the eggs surprisingly rich and flavorful. Top with a sprinkle of paprika or fresh chives for a finishing touch. This works especially well if you’re making a Mediterranean-inspired omelet with spinach and feta.
Boosted Mashed Potatoes or Cauliflower
Instead of relying solely on butter and milk, mix some hummus into your mashed potatoes or mashed cauliflower. It adds creaminess, a hint of garlic and lemon (depending on the hummus flavor), and extra depth. Start with a couple of tablespoons and adjust to your preference. It’s a simple trick to make a classic side dish a bit more interesting and nutrient-dense.
Creative Culinary Twists
Think outside the box for even more ingenious ways to use up that tub.
Deviled Eggs with a Difference
Replace some or all of the mayonnaise in your favorite deviled egg recipe with hummus. Mash the cooked egg yolks with hummus, a touch of mustard (optional), salt, and pepper. Pipe or spoon the mixture back into the egg white halves. Garnish with paprika, chopped parsley, or a tiny olive slice. The hummus provides creaminess and a lovely savory flavor that complements the eggs perfectly.
Hummus Fritters or Patties
Mix leftover hummus with breadcrumbs, finely chopped onions or scallions, herbs, and maybe a beaten egg or flax egg to help bind. Form the mixture into small patties or fritters and pan-fry them in a little oil until golden brown and heated through. Serve them as an appetizer with a yogurt dip, tuck them into pita bread, or serve alongside a salad.
Layered Dip Extravaganza
Use your leftover hummus as the base layer for a stunning seven-layer dip or a simpler layered creation. Spread the hummus in the bottom of a shallow dish. Then, layer on other complementary ingredients like chopped cucumbers and tomatoes (like an Israeli salad), crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, toasted pine nuts, chopped parsley, and a final drizzle of olive oil. Serve with pita chips or vegetable sticks.
Ultimately, the best way to use leftover hummus is to experiment! Consider the flavor profile of your specific hummus – garlic, roasted red pepper, beet, cilantro jalapeño – and think about what ingredients would pair well with it. Don’t be afraid to try adding it to dishes where you might normally use tahini, mayonnaise, or sour cream. That container of leftover hummus isn’t a problem; it’s an opportunity waiting to be seized, transforming everyday meals into something a little more flavorful and exciting. Happy cooking!
