Introduction:
Looking for a delicious and nutritious snack that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors? Look no further than Greek Style Loaded Hummus! In this SEO article, we’ll explore how to create this irresistible twist on a classic dip, packed with creamy chickpeas, tangy feta cheese, briny olives, and zesty herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt to taste
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons water (or more as needed for desired consistency)
For the Toppings:
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup cucumber, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Directions:
- In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, and salt. Process until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
- With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil and water until the hummus reaches your desired consistency. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl and spread it out evenly.
- Arrange the cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, diced cucumber, and chopped red onion on top of the hummus.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley over the toppings.
- Finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
- Serve immediately with pita bread, crackers, or vegetable sticks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes
- Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Serving Tips:
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Before serving Greek Style Loaded Hummus, garnish it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as chopped parsley, dill, or mint. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dip, enhancing its visual appeal and flavor.
- Drizzle with Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Just before serving, drizzle a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil over the top of the hummus. Not only does this add a rich and fruity flavor, but it also creates a beautiful sheen that makes the dip look even more appetizing.
- Serve with Pita Bread and Vegetables: Accompany Greek Style Loaded Hummus with an assortment of fresh vegetables and warm pita bread for dipping. Sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and carrots are all excellent choices. The combination of textures and flavors creates a satisfying and well-balanced snack or appetizer.
- Add a Side of Olives and Feta Cheese: For an authentic Greek touch, serve Greek Style Loaded Hummus with a side of briny Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese. These classic Mediterranean ingredients complement the flavors of the hummus and add a delicious salty kick.
- Present on a Platter: Arrange the hummus, vegetables, pita bread, olives, and feta cheese on a large platter for a stunning presentation. This not only makes for an eye-catching display but also encourages guests to help themselves and create their own custom combinations.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover Greek Style Loaded Hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to stir the hummus well before serving, as it may separate slightly during storage.
- Freezing: While hummus can be frozen, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. If you do choose to freeze Greek Style Loaded Hummus, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 1-2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving, and give it a good stir before enjoying.
- Separate Toppings: If you plan to store the hummus for an extended period or freeze it, consider keeping the toppings separate. This prevents them from becoming soggy and allows you to customize each serving with fresh toppings as desired.
- Serve at Room Temperature: Before serving leftover hummus, allow it to come to room temperature for the best flavor and texture. If it’s too thick, you can thin it out with a little water or extra virgin olive oil until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Enjoy Freshness Promptly: While Greek Style Loaded Hummus can be stored for several days, it’s best enjoyed fresh. Be sure to consume it within a few days for the best taste and texture.
FAQs:
1. Can I make Greek Style Loaded Hummus ahead of time for a party or gathering? Absolutely! Greek Style Loaded Hummus is a great make-ahead dish for parties and gatherings. You can prepare the hummus a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply add the toppings just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.
2. Can I customize the toppings in Greek Style Loaded Hummus? Yes, you can customize the toppings to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to add or omit ingredients based on what you have on hand or what you enjoy. Popular toppings include diced tomatoes, chopped cucumbers, red onion, roasted red peppers, and even grilled artichoke hearts.
3. Is Greek Style Loaded Hummus suitable for a vegetarian or vegan diet? Yes, Greek Style Loaded Hummus is suitable for both vegetarian and vegan diets. The base of the dish, which is the hummus itself, is made from chickpeas and tahini, making it naturally vegetarian and vegan-friendly. Just be sure to choose vegan-friendly toppings and avoid any dairy-based ingredients like feta cheese.
4. Can I use store-bought hummus instead of making it from scratch? Absolutely! If you’re short on time or prefer the convenience, you can use store-bought hummus as the base for Greek Style Loaded Hummus. Simply transfer the store-bought hummus to a serving dish and add your favorite toppings to customize it to your liking.
5. How long can Greek Style Loaded Hummus be left out at room temperature? It’s best to serve Greek Style Loaded Hummus chilled, especially if it’s been sitting out for an extended period. If left at room temperature for more than two hours, it’s recommended to refrigerate the hummus to prevent bacterial growth and ensure food safety.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Greek Style Loaded Hummus is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves the bold flavors of the Mediterranean. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious snack, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a flavorful addition to your meal, this dip has it all. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to elevate your snack game with Greek Style Loaded Hummus today!