This Mediterranean Hummus Dip Platter is a colorful and tasty treat! It features smooth hummus served with crunchy veggies and warm pita bread. Perfect for sharing or snacking!
Trust me, you’ll be the star of the party when you bring this. Everyone loves dipping their veggies into that creamy hummus—it’s just so good! 🥒🥕
I love to add olives and feta cheese to my platter for extra flavor. It’s simple to make and sure to impress your friends! Enjoy it with a movie or a game night—it’s great fun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hummus: You can use classic store-bought hummus for convenience or make your own using chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. For a different twist, try roasted red pepper hummus or beet hummus!
Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds rich flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use a light olive oil or even avocado oil. Both enhance taste without overpowering the dish.
Paprika: Smoked paprika gives a nice depth, but regular paprika works too. If you’re aiming for some heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper instead!
Olives: Kalamata and green olives provide great contrasting flavors. Substitute with other olives like Castelvetrano or black olives if desired. Just pick your favorites!
Pita bread: For a gluten-free option, replace pita with sliced cucumbers, celery, or carrot sticks. They still provide a great vehicle for the hummus!
How Do You Create a Beautiful Platter?
Arranging a platter can delight the eyes and increase appetite! Start by placing your hummus in the center, and then build around it. Here’s a simple guide:
- Use vibrant colors: Arrange colorful bell peppers, cucumbers, and olives in sections around the hummus.
- Provide varied shapes: Cut the veggies into different shapes and sizes—this creates visual interest.
- Consistency is key: Keep similar items grouped together; it makes it easy for guests to grab and go!
- Finish with garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley, mint, or cilantro on top for that fresh green touch. It instantly lifts the presentation.
Lastly, remember to keep the platter close to where people gather. This way, it encourages friends and family to mingle and enjoy the delicious dish!
Mediterranean Hummus Dip Platter
Ingredients:
- 1 cup classic hummus (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika or regular paprika
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
- 1/2 cup green olives
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 orange bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, roasted and chopped
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 4-5 pieces pita bread, cut into triangles or squares
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: chopped fresh mint or cilantro for extra freshness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Mediterranean Hummus Dip Platter takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Simply chop your veggies, arrange everything on a platter, and you’re ready to serve! If you want the hummus to chill for a while, you can let it sit in the fridge for up to a few hours before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Hummus Base:
Transfer the hummus into the center of a large round serving plate or wooden platter. Using the back of a spoon, create a well or a nice swirl in the middle. This will be the canvas for your toppings!
2. Add Toppings:
Drizzle the olive oil over the hummus, making it look shiny and inviting. Then, sprinkle the smoked paprika evenly around the swirl for a pop of flavor and color.
3. Arrange Toppings on the Hummus:
Place the Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese right in the well or swirl them on top of the hummus. This gives an enticing look and adds flavor with every dip.
4. Arrange the Platter:
Now, let’s make it look beautiful! Around the hummus, arrange the diced cucumbers, diced red and orange bell peppers, roasted red bell pepper, Kalamata olives, and green olives in separate sections. The colors will brighten up your table!
5. Add Pita Bread:
Arrange the pita bread pieces on one or two sides of the platter for easy dipping. You can even warm them up slightly for an extra touch!
6. Garnish:
Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley (and optional mint or cilantro) over the hummus dip and vegetables for added color and fragrance. It’ll make your platter look like a work of art!
7. Serve:
Serve the platter immediately or cover and refrigerate it for up to a few hours before serving. It’s best enjoyed with friends and family dipping fresh vegetables and warm pita into the creamy and flavorful hummus. Enjoy this vibrant Mediterranean Hummus Dip Platter as a healthy appetizer, snack, or party centerpiece!
Can I Use Store-Bought Hummus for This Platter?
Absolutely! Using store-bought hummus saves time and is just as delicious. Look for high-quality hummus in the refrigerated section, or try different flavors to add variety to your platter.
What Other Vegetables Can I Include?
You can definitely mix it up! Carrot sticks, cherry tomatoes, radishes, and bell pepper strips all work beautifully. Choose your favorite veggies to make the platter more personalized and colorful!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, keep the veggies and pita bread separate from the hummus. Reassemble when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I Make This Platter Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the veggies and hummus ahead of time. Just assemble the platter a few hours before serving to keep the veggies crisp. Drizzle the olive oil and add garnishes right before serving for the best presentation!