Save This black bean hummus with spooky veggies is my favorite way to serve up a festive and nourishing snack platter. It takes only twenty minutes to whip together using pantry staples and fresh produce, making it perfect for parties, Halloween gatherings, or any time you want kids and grown-ups to reach for veggies with big smiles.
I made this for my niece's costume party and was amazed by how all the little ones dove right in It is now my go to for gatherings when I want something playful and nourishing on the table
Ingredients
- Black beans: for creamy texture and deep color Look for cans with low sodium and no added preservatives
- Tahini: brings richness and that classic hummus flavor Choose one made from 100 percent sesame seeds for the best taste
- Fresh lime juice: brightens the whole dip use a juicy lime with smooth skin for maximum juice
- Garlic: for savory depth Pick a firm fresh clove without green shoots for best flavor
- Olive oil: adds silkiness and richness Go for robust extra virgin if possible
- Ground cumin and smoked paprika: for earthy warmth and a hint of smokiness Spanish smoked paprika makes a huge difference if you can find it
- Sea salt: to balance and enhance all the flavors Taste and adjust as needed
- Cold water: to reach perfect dip consistency Add gradually until smooth
- Carrot cucumber bell peppers radishes cauliflower and snap peas: give crunch color and variety Use the freshest veggies possible for eye appeal and flavor
- Black sesame seeds or sliced olives: for fun edible faces Opt for pitted olives for easy cutting and shaping
Instructions
- Make the Hummus:
- Combine black beans tahini fresh lime juice minced garlic olive oil cumin smoked paprika and salt in a food processor Blend for about two minutes stopping to scrape down the sides halfway through The hummus should become very smooth and creamy Add cold water one tablespoon at a time pulsing after each addition until the texture holds its shape but is easily scoopable Taste and adjust salt or lime juice as needed
- Garnish the Hummus:
- Scrape the hummus into a serving bowl Use the back of a spoon to swirl the top Drizzle with a tiny amount of olive oil and sprinkle with a little extra smoked paprika for a hint of color
- Prep the Vegetables:
- Peel carrot and slice it and the cucumber into thin sticks Cut bell peppers into strips For extra festive shapes use mini cookie cutters or a small sharp knife to make ghosts pumpkins or bats from the peppers and cucumber Slice radishes not too thick then use a paring knife to gently carve eyes and mouths or press in tiny bits of black sesame seed or sliced olives to create faces
- Arrange the Platter:
- Set the bowl of hummus in the center of a large serving platter Group the veggies by color and shape around the bowl for a visually striking effect Get creative with placement scattering spooky faces or themed shapes for extra fun
- Serve with a Flair:
- Present the platter soon after prepping the veggies for maximum freshness Encourage guests and kids to dip and build their own fun combinations
Save The smoked paprika is my signature move here It is what makes the hummus taste unexpectedly bold For Halloween my family loves shaping bell pepper bats together and seeing who can carve the silliest radish monster face
Storage Tips
Store leftover hummus in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days The flavors meld and deepen overnight which I always appreciate Cut veggies are best eaten same day but can be prepped several hours ahead Keep them crisp by storing with a damp paper towel in the fridge
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have black beans you can use regular canned chickpeas or even white beans for a different but still creamy dip No tahini Try creamy peanut butter or sunflower seed butter though flavor will change a bit Lemon works nicely if you are out of limes Any crunchy fresh veg can join the party
Serving Suggestions
Pile the hummus into a small hollowed pumpkin for extra Halloween effect Surround with any favorite dipping veg or use baked pita chips for a heartier snack This makes a colorful side to sandwiches or grain bowls too
Cultural and Historical Context
Hummus is rooted in Middle Eastern culinary tradition but here black beans and spooky veggies give it a modern North American twist The playful shapes echo classic harvest celebrations and get kids interested in healthy snacks My own twist stems from years of Halloween parties where simple food needed an extra dash of fun
Seasonal Adaptations
Use steamed pumpkin squares or roasted sweet potato for autumn themed color Swap in blanched asparagus or radicchio in spring for a touch of green or purple Cherry tomatoes or snap peas bring bright colors any time of year
Success Stories
One mom at a school party told me this was the only veggie dish her child tried all night The shapes and faces make even the shyest eaters curious It is truly rewarding to see empty platters and smiling faces at the end of an event
Freezer Meal Conversion
Hummus itself freezes very well Pour into a freezer safe container leaving a little space for expansion and freeze for up to a month Defrost in the refrigerator and stir well before serving Fresh veggies should be sliced day of for best texture but extra hummus can become a quick sandwich spread or salad topping straight from the freezer
Save This hummus can be the backbone for countless party platters and lunch boxes With a food processor or blender you are just minutes from a healthy crowd pleaser
Kitchen Questions
- → Can canned black beans be used directly?
Yes, simply drain and rinse canned black beans before blending for a smooth, satisfying dip.
- → How do I shape veggies into fun designs?
Use cookie cutters or a sharp knife to create ghosts, bats, or pumpkin shapes, or carve simple features with olives.
- → Is this suitable for vegan and gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! The ingredients are plant-based and naturally gluten-free, making it ideal for most dietary preferences.
- → How far in advance can the hummus be prepared?
Prepare the hummus up to 3 days ahead and refrigerate. Cut and decorate veggies on the day of serving for freshness.
- → Which vegetables work best for dipping?
Carrots, bell peppers, cucumbers, radishes, cauliflower, and snap peas are excellent. Broccoli or celery add extra crunch.