This tasty Mediterranean Hummus Dip Platter is a colorful mix of creamy hummus and fresh veggies! Great for sharing, it’s healthy and packed with flavor.
Who doesn’t love a good dip? I always end up snacking more than I should because it’s that good! Just grab some pita chips, and you’re all set for a fun snack time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: These are the star of hummus! If you’re short on time, canned chickpeas work just fine. If you like a smoother dip, you can peel the skins off the chickpeas before blending.
Tahini: This sesame paste adds creaminess. For a nut-free option, try sunbutter or a mix of peanut butter and olive oil in small amounts.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice adds brightness. If fresh lemons aren’t available, bottled lemon juice can work, but it’s best to use fresh if you can!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil not only helps blend the hummus but also enhances the flavor. You can use avocado oil for a lighter taste.
Kalamata Olives: These add a nice salty bite. If you can’t find them, any black olives like black olives or green olives can work.
How Do I Get Smooth and Creamy Hummus?
Getting your hummus perfectly smooth takes some technique! Start with high-quality ingredients. Here’s how to achieve that creamy texture:
- Blend Well: Use a food processor, and blend the chickpeas, tahini, and other ingredients until smooth.
- Add Olive Oil Gradually: While blending, add olive oil slowly to help everything combine nicely.
- Water Mystery: If the hummus is too thick, add a tablespoon of cold water at a time until you reach the desired creaminess.
Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning; sometimes a little extra salt or lemon makes all the difference!
How to Make a Mediterranean Hummus Dip Platter
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Hummus:
- 1 ½ cups cooked or canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- ¼ cup tahini
- 2-3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus more for garnish
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- Salt, to taste
For the Toppings:
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ¼ cup Kalamata olives
- 2-3 stalks celery, cut into sticks
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tsp smoked paprika or sweet paprika (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Pita bread, cut into triangles for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean Hummus Dip Platter takes about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a bit of time making the hummus and arranging the colorful toppings. It’s quick and a great option for a healthy snack or an appetizer at parties!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Hummus:
In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, and salt. Blend until smooth, drizzling in olive oil while blending. If the hummus is too thick, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of water to get the consistency you like. Taste it and add more salt or lemon juice if you want!
2. Plate the Hummus:
Spread the smooth and creamy hummus on a shallow serving bowl or a wooden platter. Create a little well in the center to hold the toppings.
3. Prepare the Toppings:
In a small bowl, mix the halved cherry tomatoes with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt. Chop the red onion finely, so it mixes well with the other toppings.
4. Assemble the Platter:
Spoon the cherry tomato and red onion mix into the well at the center of the hummus. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top, and drizzle a little more olive oil to make it look extra tasty.
5. Add the Sides:
Around the hummus, arrange the diced cucumber, celery sticks, Kalamata olives, and a few extra cherry tomatoes. This makes the platter colorful and inviting!
6. Garnish:
Finish off the dip platter by sprinkling smoked paprika over the hummus and adding some fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for that extra pop of color and freshness.
7. Serve:
Serve this Mediterranean Hummus Dip Platter immediately with warm pita bread triangles for dipping. You can also offer pita chips or fresh veggies like carrots or bell peppers for extra crunch!
Enjoy this colorful and fresh Mediterranean Hummus Dip Platter—it’s perfect for sharing with family and friends, and packed with vibrant flavors!
Can I Use Canned Chickpeas Instead of Dried Ones?
Yes, canned chickpeas are a convenient option! Just make sure to drain and rinse them well before using them to remove excess sodium and preservatives.
How Can I Store Leftover Hummus?
Store any leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To keep it fresh, drizzle a little olive oil on top before sealing the container.
What Can I Use Instead of Tahini?
If you don’t have tahini on hand, you can substitute it with almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or even a bit of Greek yogurt for a creamier texture. Just be aware that it will slightly change the flavor!
Can I Make This Platter Vegan?
Absolutely! The hummus is already vegan. Just omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese option, and enjoy this delicious platter without any worries!
