The Mediterranean Hummus Platter is a fresh, vibrant, and delicious appetizer or snack that brings together the rich flavors of the Mediterranean in a single, easy-to-prepare dish. With a creamy base of hummus, topped with a colorful variety of ingredients such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and red onion, this platter is both nutritious and satisfying. It is perfect for serving at gatherings, as a light meal, or for a wholesome snack during the day.

This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and texture, combining the smoothness of hummus with the crunch of fresh vegetables, the saltiness of olives and feta, and the bright tang of red onion and parsley. It pairs wonderfully with pita bread or crispy crackers for dipping, making it a crowd-pleasing option that will leave everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re looking for a Mediterranean-inspired treat or simply want a quick, healthy platter, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: The Mediterranean Hummus Platter requires no cooking and can be assembled in just 10 minutes.
Packed with Flavor: The hummus acts as the perfect base for a combination of vibrant ingredients, creating a burst of flavors in every bite.
Healthy: This dish is full of fresh vegetables, healthy fats from olives, and protein from hummus, making it a nutritious choice.
Customizable: You can add or swap ingredients based on your preferences, making it versatile for any palate.
Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for parties, gatherings, or family meals, as it’s easy to serve and share.

Ingredients

Hummus
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Cucumber, sliced
Kalamata olives
Feta cheese, crumbled
Red onion, thinly sliced
Fresh parsley, chopped
Pita bread or crackers for serving

Variations

Add Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: For a heartier version, top the hummus platter with grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Use Other Olives: If you prefer a different type of olive, green olives or even mixed olives can be used.
Vegan Version: Skip the feta cheese or replace it with vegan feta or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Spicy Kick: Add some sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of chili oil for an extra spicy kick.
Roasted Vegetables: You can roast vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini and add them on top for a warm, savory touch.

How to Make Mediterranean Hummus Platter

Step 1: Prepare the Platter

Spread the hummus evenly on a large serving platter, using a spatula to smooth it into a generous layer.

Step 2: Add the Toppings

Arrange the cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, red onion, and chopped fresh parsley on top of the hummus. You can arrange these ingredients in neat sections or scatter them evenly over the hummus for a more rustic look.

Step 3: Serve

Serve the Mediterranean Hummus Platter with pita bread or crackers on the side for dipping.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Fresh Ingredients: To ensure the platter is full of flavor, use fresh and ripe vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes.
Customize to Taste: Feel free to add more or less of any ingredient to suit your personal taste or dietary preferences.
Choose High-Quality Hummus: The flavor of the hummus is the base of the platter, so choose a good-quality hummus, or make your own for the best result.
Serve Immediately: While this platter is easy to prepare ahead, it’s best served fresh to keep the vegetables crisp and the hummus creamy.

How to Serve

As a Party Appetizer: This platter is ideal for serving at parties or gatherings as an appetizer that guests can easily share.
With Drinks: It pairs perfectly with wine, cocktails, or fresh juices, making it an excellent addition to any gathering.
As a Light Meal: This platter can also be served as a light lunch or dinner when you’re looking for something fresh and healthy.
On a Picnic: Pack it for a picnic or a family outing for a refreshing and satisfying meal outdoors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the hummus and vegetables separately in airtight containers. The hummus can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, while the vegetables are best enjoyed fresh. You can prepare the toppings ahead of time and assemble the platter right before serving.

Freezing

It’s not recommended to freeze the Mediterranean Hummus Platter as the vegetables may lose their texture when frozen and thawed.

Reheating

Since this is a cold dish, there’s no need to reheat it. Just assemble the platter fresh, and enjoy it chilled.

FAQs

1. Can I make the hummus from scratch?

Yes, you can make your own hummus by blending cooked chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and salt. Freshly made hummus adds an extra level of flavor.

2. What other vegetables can I add to the platter?

You can add roasted red peppers, bell peppers, carrots, or even artichoke hearts for extra flavor and texture.

3. Can I make this platter in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the toppings ahead of time and store them separately. Assemble the platter just before serving.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this platter is naturally gluten-free, but make sure to serve it with gluten-free pita or crackers for a completely gluten-free dish.

5. Can I use store-bought pita bread?

Absolutely! You can use store-bought pita bread, or even pita chips or crackers for convenience.

6. Can I use other cheeses instead of feta?

Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese, ricotta, or a non-dairy cheese for a vegan option.

7. How can I make this platter spicier?

Add sliced jalapeños or drizzle a little bit of hot sauce or chili oil on top for a spicy kick.

8. Can I make this dish without olives?

Yes, you can omit the olives or replace them with something else like sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers.

9. What should I serve with this platter besides pita?

Serve with crackers, vegetable sticks like carrots and celery, or even tortilla chips for dipping.

10. How long does the platter last in the fridge?

The hummus will last for 3-4 days in the fridge, but the fresh vegetables are best eaten within 1-2 days.

Conclusion

The Mediterranean Hummus Platter is a simple yet delicious dish that brings together the best of fresh Mediterranean ingredients. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving it at a party, as a healthy snack, or as part of a light meal. With its variety of textures, flavors, and vibrant colors, this platter is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings for fresh, wholesome food. Enjoy this easy-to-make recipe and feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings!