Mediterranean Hummus Platter
Highlighted under: World Cuisine
A vibrant and healthy Mediterranean Hummus Platter perfect for sharing, featuring creamy hummus paired with fresh vegetables, olives, and pita bread.
This Mediterranean Hummus Platter is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that is both healthy and satisfying. It's perfect for parties, gatherings, or a light meal!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and vibrant flavors from the Mediterranean.
- Easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings.
- Healthy and packed with nutrients!
The Essence of Mediterranean Cuisine
Mediterranean cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and health benefits. It emphasizes fresh vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and healthy fats, making it a cornerstone of a balanced diet. This Mediterranean Hummus Platter showcases these elements beautifully, offering a colorful array of nutritious ingredients that are both satisfying and delicious.
By incorporating ingredients like chickpeas and tahini, this platter provides plant-based protein and essential nutrients. The use of olive oil not only adds flavor but also contributes heart-healthy fats. Each component of the platter complements the others, creating a harmonious blend of taste and texture that is sure to please everyone at your gathering.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, a festive holiday party, or simply enjoying a night in with family, this Mediterranean Hummus Platter is an ideal choice. Its easy preparation allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your guests. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal.
The platter can be customized to suit any palate. Add or substitute vegetables based on what’s in season or your personal preferences. This flexibility not only keeps the dish fresh and exciting but also allows you to cater to dietary restrictions, making it a truly inclusive option for all your guests.
Health Benefits of Hummus
Hummus is not just a delicious dip; it is also a nutritional powerhouse. Made primarily from chickpeas, it is rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while enjoying flavorful food. The addition of tahini contributes healthy fats and calcium, further enhancing its nutritional profile.
Moreover, the fresh vegetables and olives in this platter provide an abundance of antioxidants and vitamins. Incorporating such a variety of colorful produce into your meals can help boost your immune system and promote overall health. When you choose this Mediterranean Hummus Platter, you are not only indulging your taste buds but also nourishing your body.
Ingredients
For the Hummus
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed
For the Platter
- Pita bread, cut into wedges
- Cucumber, sliced
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Bell peppers, sliced
- Olives (Kalamata or green)
- Carrot sticks
Arrange the ingredients beautifully on a platter for serving.
Instructions
Make the Hummus
In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth, adding water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Prepare the Platter
On a serving platter, arrange the pita bread, cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper slices, olives, and carrot sticks.
Serve
Place the hummus in the center of the platter and enjoy with the fresh vegetables and pita bread!
Enjoy your Mediterranean Hummus Platter with family and friends!
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, storing them properly can help maintain their freshness. The hummus can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you notice it thickening, simply stir in a little water or olive oil to restore its creamy consistency.
The fresh vegetables and pita should ideally be consumed the same day to enjoy their crispness. However, if you have extra veggies, store them in the fridge in a sealed container. This way, you can enjoy them as a healthy snack or add them to salads in the following days.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Mediterranean Hummus Platter, consider pairing it with a selection of cheeses, such as feta or goat cheese. This addition can introduce new flavors and textures, making your platter even more enticing. You could also include marinated artichokes or grilled zucchini for a more substantial spread.
For a delightful twist, offer a variety of flavored hummus options, like roasted red pepper or garlic-infused hummus. This not only adds visual appeal but also caters to different taste preferences, ensuring that every guest finds something they love.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make the hummus in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the hummus a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.
→ What can I substitute for tahini?
You can use sunflower seed butter or almond butter as a substitute if you have a sesame allergy.
→ How long will leftovers last?
Leftover hummus can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
→ Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, the Mediterranean Hummus Platter is entirely vegan!
Mediterranean Hummus Platter
A vibrant and healthy Mediterranean Hummus Platter perfect for sharing, featuring creamy hummus paired with fresh vegetables, olives, and pita bread.
Created by: Lara
Recipe Type: World Cuisine
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: Serves 4
What You'll Need
For the Hummus
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed
For the Platter
- Pita bread, cut into wedges
- Cucumber, sliced
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Bell peppers, sliced
- Olives (Kalamata or green)
- Carrot sticks
How-To Steps
In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth, adding water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
On a serving platter, arrange the pita bread, cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper slices, olives, and carrot sticks.
Place the hummus in the center of the platter and enjoy with the fresh vegetables and pita bread!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 8g