Holiday Butternut Squash Hummus Recipe

If you’re looking to brighten up your holiday table with a dip that’s bursting with festive colors and flavors, then the Holiday Butternut Squash Hummus is absolutely the way to go. Imagine creamy, nutty classic hummus elevated by the sweet roasted warmth of butternut squash, the tart pop of cranberries, and jewel-like pomegranate arils — all balanced by fragrant rosemary. This vibrant, easy-to-make dish brings a perfect seasonal twist that’s sure to become a new favorite for friend and family gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because it uses simple, fresh ingredients that each bring their own magic to the table. From the velvety hummus base to the colorful fruit and herb accents, every element makes this dish irresistibly festive and delicious.

• Sabra classic hummus (10 ounce container): The creamy, smooth foundation that holds all the flavors together beautifully.
• Diced butternut squash (¾ cup): Roasting brings out its natural sweetness and adds a soft, comforting texture.
• Extra virgin olive oil (½ tablespoon): Adds richness and helps the squash caramelize perfectly in the oven.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings for balancing the flavors just right.
• Fresh rosemary leaves (2 sprigs, chopped and divided): Provides a wonderful piney, herbal note that’s perfect for the holidays.
• Fresh or frozen cranberries (½ cup): Their tartness cuts through the creaminess and adds beautiful red pops of color.
• Pomegranate arils (¼ cup): Jewel-like seeds that bring a juicy crunch and brilliant festive sparkle.

How to Make Holiday Butternut Squash Hummus

Step 1: Roast the butternut squash

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F. Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, and half of the chopped rosemary to coat them evenly. Spread the squash out in a single layer on a baking sheet to ensure even roasting. Pop it in the oven for about 12-15 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the pieces are tender and just beginning to brown around the edges. This roasting step not only softens the squash but also intensifies its sweetness, creating a perfect balance for the hummus.

Step 2: Cool and mix fruits with herbs

Once the squash is roasted, let it cool for about 5 minutes. In a mixing bowl, combine the roasted butternut squash with fresh or frozen cranberries, juicy pomegranate arils, and the remaining chopped rosemary. Toss gently to mix all the flavors and textures together. This combo adds a wonderful burst of tartness and herbaceous notes that will make your Holiday Butternut Squash Hummus truly stand out.

Step 3: Assemble the dish

Spread the Sabra classic hummus onto a serving plate or shallow bowl, smoothing it out and creating a little well in the center. Spoon the vibrant butternut squash and fruit mixture into this well, layering it beautifully in the center of the hummus. This presentation invites everyone to dig in and get a bit of every delicious component with each bite.

How to Serve Holiday Butternut Squash Hummus

Garnishes

To make your presentation even more festive, feel free to sprinkle a few extra pomegranate arils or some chopped rosemary on top. A drizzle of olive oil over the hummus adds a glossy finish and extra silkiness. These simple touches not only enhance the flavor but also give your dish a stunning holiday look that’s hard to resist.

Side Dishes

This hummus pairs wonderfully with warm pita chips, toasted baguette slices, or crisp vegetable sticks like carrot and celery. It’s also fabulous alongside a cheese board or served as part of a holiday appetizer spread where guests can mingle and snack merrily. The creamy texture and varied flavors make it a perfect crowd-pleaser.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning centerpiece, serve the Holiday Butternut Squash Hummus in a large shallow dish surrounded by an assortment of colorful dippers. You can also spoon it into individual small bowls topped with a few pomegranate seeds and a rosemary sprig for a more elegant touch. Playing with presentation makes the experience even more festive and special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Because of the fresh fruit and herbs, it’s best to store leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume it within 2-3 days. The flavors meld even more after sitting for a few hours, but the fruits are freshest when eaten sooner rather than later.

Freezing

This delightful hummus isn’t ideal for freezing, as the fresh cranberries and pomegranate arils tend to change texture once frozen. For the best taste and consistency, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated only.

Reheating

The Holiday Butternut Squash Hummus is best served at room temperature or slightly warmed. If you prefer it warm, gently heat the roasted squash mixture separately and add it back on top of the hummus right before serving. Avoid microwaving the entire dish to preserve the fresh flavors and textures.

FAQs

Can I use canned butternut squash instead of fresh?

While canned squash is softer and less flavorful, you can use it in a pinch. Roasting fresh butternut squash gives the hummus its wonderful caramelized sweetness and texture that canned squash cannot replicate as well.

Can I substitute the fresh rosemary with dried rosemary?

Dried rosemary has a more concentrated, sometimes woody flavor, so use it sparingly if needed. Fresh rosemary brings a bright, fresh note that complements the holiday spices perfectly in this recipe.

What if I don’t have pomegranate arils? Can I skip them?

Pomegranate arils add a lovely crunch and burst of color, but if you don’t have them, extra cranberries or even a sprinkle of chopped nuts like pistachios work well too for texture and visual appeal.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Absolutely! The Holiday Butternut Squash Hummus uses all plant-based ingredients and is a fantastic vegan-friendly option for any holiday gathering.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! The dip itself is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free dippers such as rice crackers, vegetable sticks, or gluten-free pita chips.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try this Holiday Butternut Squash Hummus because it is one of those recipes that feels both festive and comforting, making any gathering extra special. The balance of creamy, sweet, tart, and herbal flavors creates a dip that everyone will be reaching for. Once you make it, this dish will confidently take its rightful place as a seasonal staple. So gather your ingredients, turn on that oven, and get ready to wow your guests with something truly delicious and unforgettable!

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