Imagine a rich and buttery butternut squash, roasted to perfection and blended seamlessly into a **hummus** that is bound to tantalize your taste buds. Welcome to the world of Roasted Butternut Squash Hummus with Crispy Sage, a delightful twist on the traditional hummus recipe that promises a burst of flavors in every bite. As the holidays approach, this dish will gleefully grace your table with its warm hues and inviting aroma, making it the perfect crowd-pleaser.

The Magic of Butternut Squash and Sage

There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of **butternut squash** and sage. The sweet, earthy flavor of roasted squash melds perfectly with the fragrant, slightly peppery essence of crispy **sage leaves**. This harmony of taste is a testament to how versatile an ingredient butternut squash can be, transforming a simple appetizer into a gourmet delight. By incorporating this seasonal vegetable and herb, you’re not only adding depth to your dish but also tapping into a tapestry of flavors known for their comfort and inviting warmth.

Choosing Your Butternut Squash

Choosing the right butternut squash is crucial for the best flavor. Opt for a squash that feels heavy for its size, with a hard, uniformly beige skin. Avoid any that have deep cuts or blemishes, as these can affect the taste and texture of your **hummus**. The perfect squash will roast beautifully, caramelizing to bring out its natural sweetness, and provide a butter-like consistency when blended. The trick to roasting perfection lies in patience and a keen eye, ensuring each piece is evenly balanced with olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a gentle sprinkle of black pepper.

Creating a Delicious Hummus Base

The classic base for a hummus is transformed when we introduce the butternut squash element. After roasting until soft and deep golden brown, the squash is ready to blend with traditional hummus ingredients **chickpeas**, **tahini**, lemon juice, garlic, and seasoning. The addition of butternut squash to this blend not only enhances the nutty and tangy characteristics of the hummus but also provides a creamy and luscious texture that is hard to resist.

Roasted Butternut Squash Hummus Recipe Ingredients

Preparing the Roasted Butternut Squash

Begin by preheating your oven to 400F (200C). Arrange your **butternut squash** cubes on a **cutting board** and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the cubes out on a lined baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring enough space for even roasting. Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized at the edges. This step is the foundation of your recipe, delivering that key buttery and nutty flavor that makes this dish unique.

While the butternut squash roasts, rinse your drained chickpeas under cold water, allowing them to sit and dry out a bit. A crucial step in maintaining the smoothness of your final hummus.

Creating the Hummus

Once your butternut squash has achieved the desired roast, let it cool slightly. Transfer these beautiful pieces into your **food processor** along with chickpeas, tahini, garlic cloves, lemon juice, and cumin. Blend the mixture until it reaches your desired consistency. Use your seasoning stick to adjust the flavors with salt, and pepper, or add a splash more lemon juice for an extra tang.

Here comes the fun part: with the food processor still running, drizzle in a bit more olive oil until your hummus transforms into a smooth, silky paste. You want your hummus to be luscious yet structured enough to hold its form when scooped.

Fragrant, Crispy Sage

In a small skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the fresh sage leaves in batches, letting them sizzle and crisp up for about 30 seconds each. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the crisped sage onto a paper towel, which will absorb any excess oil. These **crispy sage leaves** are the coup de grce of your dish, offering a contrasting texture and a burst of flavor that elevates your hummus to newfound heights.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Serve your Roasted Butternut Squash Hummus with Crispy Sage with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of **smoked paprika** and **flaky sea salt** to accentuate its flavor profile. Pair this delectable creation with rustic **artisan bread**, warm pita wedges, or an array of fresh and colorful crudits for dipping. Its vibrant colors and complex flavors make it an ideal centerpiece for any appetizer spread, as well as a conversation starter at your next gathering.

The Perfect Complement to Your Meal

If you’re wondering what to pair with this unique hummus, try the Chopped Asian Salad from my other recipes. The fresh greens and ginger-peanut dressing will beautifully complement the earthy and warm flavors of the hummus.

Cleaning Up After Deliciousness

After crafting this marvelous dish, it’s important to take care of your culinary tools cookware care kit. Treat your **cutting board** to some well-deserved love with a dedicated cutting board conditioner to maintain its pristine condition.

This dish not only promises a delightful experience for the palate but also adds a nourishing and comforting element to any menu. So dive into the world of Roasted Butternut Squash Hummus with Crispy Sage and savor each rich, creamy, and aromatic bites with delight!