This Mediterranean Hummus Dip Platter is a colorful and tasty spread featuring creamy hummus, fresh veggies, and warm pita. Perfect for sharing, it’s a party on a plate!
You can easily mix and match your favorite dippers. I love sneaking extra pita chips, especially when they’re warm and toasty! Who can resist? 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: Canned chickpeas work great for ease, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can cook dry chickpeas. Soak them overnight and boil until tender for a fresher flavor.
Tahini: Tahini adds a unique nutty taste, but you can use peanut butter or sunflower seed butter if you need a substitute, keeping in mind the flavor will change a bit.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances the hummus, but canola or avocado oil can be used in a pinch. I recommend sticking with olive oil for a true Mediterranean flavor.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess, but if you’re avoiding dairy, try using a vegan feta or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Pita Bread: If pita isn’t available, any flatbread like naan or even tortilla chips can be a fun alternative for dipping!
What’s the Best Way to Make Creamy Hummus?
Getting the perfect creamy texture for your hummus is key. Here’s how to blend it to buttery perfection:
- Start by combining all your ingredients in a food processor, but hold off on the water for now.
- Blend until the chickpeas and tahini are very finely mixed, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Gradually add water, but only a tablespoon at a time, blending after each addition. Stop when you reach your desired consistency – smooth and creamy with no visible chunks!
Lastly, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top before serving adds a nice finishing touch and extra creaminess.
How to Make Mediterranean Hummus Dip Platter
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Hummus:
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 2 cloves garlic
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons water (to adjust consistency)
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup diced roasted red peppers
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 10-12 Kalamata olives, halved or sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Smoked paprika or sumac, for dusting
For the Platter:
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
- 1 large carrot, cut into sticks
- Pita bread or flatbread, toasted and cut into triangles
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Mediterranean Hummus Dip Platter takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy to whip up, making it a perfect appetizer or snack for gatherings. Enjoy the vibrant colors and fresh flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Hummus:
Start by adding the drained chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, and salt into a food processor. Blend everything together until smooth. If the hummus is too thick, gradually add water—1 tablespoon at a time—until it reaches your desired creamy consistency.
2. Transfer the Hummus:
Once your hummus is smooth, spoon it into a serving bowl or platter. Use a spatula to smooth the top and create a shallow well in the center for the toppings.
3. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together the diced roasted red peppers, chopped red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and sliced Kalamata olives. This colorful mix will be spooned into the well of the hummus.
4. Assemble the Hummus Dip:
Spoon the topping mixture into the well you created in the hummus. Then, drizzle a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil over the hummus and toppings to elevate the flavor.
5. Add Finishing Touches:
For a pretty presentation, lightly sprinkle smoked paprika or sumac around the edges of the hummus. Finally, garnish everything with freshly chopped parsley to add color and freshness.
6. Arrange the Platter:
Now it’s time to make your platter look inviting! Arrange the diced cucumbers, halved grape tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and carrot sticks around the hummus. Make sure it looks colorful and tempting!
7. Serve:
Don’t forget to add your toasted pita bread triangles to the platter. Serve this beautiful Mediterranean Hummus Dip Platter immediately as an appetizer or snack. Encourage your guests to scoop the hummus with the fresh veggies and pita for a satisfying experience!
Enjoy your fresh and flavorful Mediterranean Hummus Dip Platter!
Can I Use Dried Chickpeas Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook them until tender. This will add a fresher taste to your hummus, but make sure to let them cool before blending with the other ingredients.
How Long Does the Hummus Last in the Fridge?
Your hummus can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as it might thicken up a bit in the fridge.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes, this dish is already vegan-friendly! Just be cautious with the feta cheese; you can easily substitute it with a vegan feta or omit it completely for a hummus that’s perfectly plant-based.
What Alternatives Can I Use for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, avocado oil or another neutral oil like grapeseed oil can work well. Keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!
