Mediterranean Hummus Platter Recipe
This vibrant dish is a Mediterranean Hummus Platter—a quick, colorful, and healthy appetizer or light meal. It features a creamy base of hummus topped with crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, briny olives, red onions, fresh herbs, and a generous drizzle of olive oil. It’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or a nourishing snack platter.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: None
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients:
1 ½ cups plain hummus (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes (halved)
½ cup cucumber slices
⅓ cup red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup mixed olives (green, Kalamata, or black)
2–3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp fresh parsley or mint, chopped
Optional: sprinkle of smoked paprika, za’atar, or sumac
Instructions:
Spread the Hummus: On a large plate or shallow bowl, spread the hummus in an even layer.
Arrange Toppings: Neatly arrange cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, olives, and red onion over the hummus.
Add Herbs & Oil: Sprinkle with fresh herbs, drizzle olive oil generously, and add any optional seasonings.
Serve: Pair with warm pita bread, crackers, or fresh veggies.
Tips:
Use Quality Hummus: If using store-bought, choose a brand with minimal ingredients and a creamy texture. Homemade with tahini tastes best.
Serve at Room Temperature: Let hummus sit out for 10–15 minutes before serving—flavors are more pronounced when not cold.
Drain Toppings Well: Pat olives and tomatoes dry to avoid watery hummus.
Chop Uniformly: Keep toppings bite-sized for easier scooping with pita or crackers.
Chill in Layers (if making ahead): Assemble hummus and toppings separately and combine just before serving for freshness.
Variations:
Flavor Upgrades:
Spicy: Add harissa paste, chili oil, or sprinkle crushed red pepper.
Tangy: Use pickled onions or drizzle pomegranate molasses.
Zesty: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or lemon zest before serving.
Topping Ideas:
Cheese: Crumbled feta or goat cheese.
Nuts/Seeds: Toasted pine nuts, sesame seeds, or sunflower seeds for crunch.
Greens: Add arugula, baby spinach, or microgreens.
Protein Add-Ins:
Grilled chicken or shrimp
Falafel pieces
Roasted chickpeas
Bread Options:
Pita wedges (warm or toasted)
Lavash crackers
Sliced baguette
Q&A:
Q: Can I make this platter ahead of time?
A: Yes—prepare all the toppings and hummus in advance. Assemble just before serving to keep it fresh and colorful.
Q: Is this dish vegan and gluten-free?
A: Yes! It’s naturally vegan and gluten-free—just serve with gluten-free crackers or veggie sticks if needed.
Q: What’s the best way to serve it?
A: Serve it with pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables like bell peppers and carrots for dipping.
Q: Can I use flavored hummus?
A: Absolutely. Roasted red pepper, garlic, or lemon hummus all work well and add variety.
Q: How long does it keep?
A: The assembled platter is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Nutrition (Per Serving, approx. 1/6 of platter)
Calories: ~220–280 kcal
Protein: 5–7g
Carbs: 15–20g
Fat: 15–18g
Fiber: 4–6g
Sodium: ~250–350mg (depends on olives and hummus)
Varies with toppings and amount of olive oil used.
Conclusion:
The Mediterranean Hummus Platter is a vibrant, flavorful, and wholesome dish that’s perfect for sharing. With its creamy hummus base, fresh veggies, and bold toppings, it’s as beautiful as it is nutritious. Easy to customize and quick to assemble, it’s ideal for parties, picnics, or a healthy snack any time.