This Mediterranean Hummus Dip Platter is a colorful mix of yummy hummus, fresh veggies, and crunchy pita. It’s perfect for sharing and makes any snack time feel special!
I love how easy it is to whip up a platter—just arrange everything beautifully and watch everyone dig in! Plus, it’s healthy, so you can enjoy it without any guilt. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: These are the base of your hummus. Canned chickpeas are super convenient, but if you have dried chickpeas, you can cook and use them instead. Just remember to soak them overnight first!
Tahini: A critical ingredient for that creamy texture and nutty flavor. If you can’t find tahini, try using sunflower seed butter or almond butter as a substitute, but the taste will vary a bit.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the hummus! If you’re out of fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, though it may have a slightly different flavor.
Garlic: For a fresh kick. If you want a milder taste, consider using roasted garlic instead—it’s sweeter and less pungent.
Feta Cheese: Adds a salty and creamy element to the topping. If you want a dairy-free option, try crumbled tofu mixed with a little lemon juice for a similar tang!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Creamy Hummus?
Getting hummus to the right consistency can be tricky. Here’s how to ensure yours is creamy and smooth:
- Blend the Tahini & Lemon Juice First: Whipping these together first gives your hummus a fluffy texture. Blend for about a minute until it looks thick and creamy.
- Add Chickpeas Gradually: With the processor running, add the chickpeas slowly. It helps blend everything more evenly.
- Adjust with Water: Don’t hesitate to add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired creaminess. This is the key to perfect texture!
Don’t forget to taste and adjust the salt or lemon juice as needed. Enjoy making your dip!
Mediterranean Hummus Dip Platter
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Hummus:
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 1/4 cup well-stirred tahini
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons water
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup diced cucumber
- 1/4 cup diced tomato
- 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives
- Smoked paprika for garnish
For the Platter:
- 1 medium cucumber, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, julienned
- Pita chips or flatbread pieces
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus time for assembling the platter. You can enjoy it right away, but it’s even better if you let it chill for a little while in the fridge. This will help the flavors mingle. Total time: around 15-20 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Hummus:
In a food processor, combine the tahini and lemon juice. Process for about 1 minute until it becomes creamy and fluffy. Next, add the minced garlic, cumin, and salt. Gradually add the chickpeas while the processor is running. Continue to blend until the hummus is nice and smooth, adding 2-3 tablespoons of water to achieve your desired creamy consistency.
2. Assemble the Platter:
Take a large shallow bowl or a platter and spread the hummus evenly across it, creating a shallow well in the center for your toppings.
3. Make the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together your diced cucumber, tomato, red bell pepper, red onion, and parsley. This brightens up the platter with freshness and color!
4. Top the Hummus:
Spoon the vegetable mixture right into the center well of the hummus. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and Kalamata olives on top, then drizzle a bit of olive oil over everything. Finally, dust the platter with a little smoked paprika for a touch of color and flavor.
5. Add Fresh Veggies and Pita:
Arrange the sliced cucumber, julienned red bell pepper, and pita chips around the hummus, creating a beautiful, inviting display for your platter.
6. Serve:
Serve your Mediterranean Hummus Dip Platter with a drizzle of extra olive oil and extra pita on the side for dipping. Dig in and enjoy!
This platter is not just a feast for the eyes but also offers a wonderful mix of flavors and textures. Perfect for any gathering or simply as a delicious snack!
Can I Use Dried Chickpeas Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and then boil them until tender. This usually takes about 1-2 hours. Make sure to drain and rinse them well before using in the recipe.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Hummus?
Leftover hummus can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To keep it fresh, make sure it’s covered well to prevent it from drying out.
What Can I Use Instead of Tahini?
If you don’t have tahini on hand, you can substitute it with sunflower seed butter, almond butter, or even Greek yogurt. Just note that the flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Platter Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the hummus and toppings in advance. Just assemble the platter shortly before serving to keep the veggies fresh and crisp. The hummus tastes great after resting in the fridge for a few hours, too!
