Are you ready to indulge in a delightful Mediterranean dish that brings a burst of flavor and freshness to your table? Enter Greek Style Loaded Hummus, the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and vibrant ingredients that will make you swoon over every bite. This dish is not only visually appealing with its colorful toppings, but it’s also incredibly simple to whip up, making it ideal for gatherings, parties, or a quick weeknight snack. With just 10 minutes of preparation, you can treat yourself and your loved ones to an appetizer that tastes homemade and is packed with nutrients.
Combining classic hummus with fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil, this loaded hummus transcends the traditional dip experience. Whether you’re a hummus enthusiast or a newcomer to this beloved dish, you’ll appreciate how the contrasting textures and flavors come together beautifully. Each scoop will offer a satisfying crunch from the veggies, creaminess from the hummus, and a hint of zest from the herbs and spices. Plus, this recipe is highly versatile — tailor it to your preferences by mixing and matching toppings to suit your taste.
In addition to being a flavor powerhouse, our Greek Style Loaded Hummus embodies health benefits with its wholesome ingredients. Hummus itself is a fantastic source of plant-based protein and healthy fats, particularly when enhanced with the addition of fresh vegetables. This delightful dish can stand alone or complement a wide array of dishes, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Greek Style Loaded Hummus
- Delicious and Versatile: Perfect as a dip, spread, or standalone appetizer.
- Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 10 minutes, ideal for last-minute gatherings.
- Customizable: Mix and match toppings and herbs based on your preferences.
- Healthy and Nourishing: Packed with proteins, healthy fats, and nutrients from fresh vegetables.
- Great for Sharing: A crowd-pleaser that is perfect for parties or family gatherings.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you start creating this delectable Greek Style Loaded Hummus, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the required tools. Begin by ensuring your workspace is clean and organized, making it easy to maneuver through the recipe steps. You’ll need a cutting board and a sharp knife for chopping the vegetables and herbs, ensuring even sizes for a pleasing presentation. A mixing bowl is a must for combining the fresh ingredients, and a serving platter will display your hummus beautifully.
Having measuring cups and spoons handy will help you accurately add the ingredients, while a spoon or spatula will be great for spreading the hummus and mixing the toppings. Lastly, ensure you have a citrus juicer if you prefer to squeeze fresh lemon juice for an extra zing. Now that you are set up, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need for this fantastic dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups plain hummus
- 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
- ½ cup sliced mini cucumbers
- ¼ cup red onion or shallot, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup chopped kalamata olives (optional)
- 2–3 sliced pepperoncini peppers
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1–2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (parsley, mint, or chives)
- Sumac or paprika, for garnish
- Toasted pine nuts (optional)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Veggies
Start by washing your cherry tomatoes and mini cucumbers thoroughly under cold water. Once cleaned, cut the tomatoes into halves or quarters depending on your preference for bite-sized pieces. For the cucumbers, slice them into thin rounds. Next, chop the red onion or shallot into thin slices and mince the garlic clove. If you’re using kalamata olives, chop them into small pieces, as they will add a burst of briny flavor to the mix. Gather all these ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Mix It Up
In the same mixing bowl with your freshly chopped ingredients, add the sliced pepperoncini peppers. These peppers not only contribute additional flavor, but they also bring a delightful hint of spice. Next, drizzle in the olive oil and sprinkle the dried oregano over the mixture. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Toss all the ingredients gently until everything is evenly coated with olive oil and mixed thoroughly. At this point, you should be able to smell the freshness of your veggie mix!
Step 3: Assemble the Hummus
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Grab your serving platter and spread the hummus evenly across the surface, using the back of a spoon to create swirls and a lovely texture. This not only makes for an eye-catching presentation but also creates little pockets for the veggie mix to sit on. Once the hummus is nicely laid out, spoon the colorful veggie mixture over the top, letting it tumbling over the sides for a rustic look.
Step 4: Final Touches
For the finishing touches, sprinkle extra herbs atop the loaded hummus for a pop of green and flavor. A dusting of sumac or paprika adds the perfect hint of color and zest. If you’re feeling generous, you can also sprinkle some toasted pine nuts for an additional crunch. Serve with lemon wedges on the side, allowing guests to squeeze fresh lemon juice over their portions for a refreshing touch. It’s time to enjoy your Greek Style Loaded Hummus with pita chips or fresh cut veggies!
Variations
- Protein: Add cooked chickpeas, diced grilled chicken, or crumbled feta cheese to elevate the protein content.
- Vegetables: Incorporate diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even roasted vegetables for additional flavor and nutrition.
- Spices: Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or za’atar for a unique twist on flavor.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure all vegetables are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- If making ahead of time, mix the veggies and hummus separately until just before serving to keep the ingredients crisp.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with pita chips, sliced fresh vegetables, or crackers for a crunchy element.
- Serve alongside grilled meats or fish for a complete Mediterranean meal.
Tips
- Consider providing a variety of dippers, such as breadsticks, for added engagement during gatherings.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic and herbs based on your personal preferences.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 240 per serving
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 120mg
FAQs
How long does loaded hummus last in the fridge?
Loaded hummus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s important to keep the veggie mix separate from the hummus to maintain freshness.
Can I use store-bought hummus for this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to use store-bought hummus if you’re short on time. Just choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.
What can I substitute for kalamata olives?
If you don’t have kalamata olives, green olives or even sun-dried tomatoes can be a lovely substitute for a different flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. Enjoy it without any adjustments!
Conclusion
In conclusion, Greek Style Loaded Hummus is a fresh and delightful addition to your appetizer repertoire. Its vibrant mix of colors and flavors not only make it appealing but also nutritious. Whether you enjoy it as a dip with pita chips or a topping on grilled meats, this dish is incredibly versatile and easy to customize. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetable combinations, herbs, and spices to make it uniquely yours. We encourage you to try this recipe at your next gathering, and don’t forget to share your experiences and variations with us in the comments below. Happy dipping!
Print
Greek Style Loaded Hummus
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Delicious and versatile, perfect as a dip or appetizer!
Ingredients
- 2 cups plain hummus
- 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
- ½ cup sliced mini cucumbers
- ¼ cup red onion or shallot, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup chopped kalamata olives (optional)
- 2–3 sliced pepperoncini peppers
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1–2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (parsley, mint, or chives)
- Sumac or paprika, for garnish
- Toasted pine nuts (optional)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Start by washing your cherry tomatoes and mini cucumbers thoroughly under cold water. Once cleaned, cut the tomatoes into halves or quarters depending on your preference for bite-sized pieces. For the cucumbers, slice them into thin rounds. Next, chop the red onion or shallot into thin slices and mince the garlic clove. If you’re using kalamata olives, chop them into small pieces, as they will add a burst of briny flavor to the mix. Gather all these ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
- In the same mixing bowl with your freshly chopped ingredients, add the sliced pepperoncini peppers. These peppers not only contribute additional flavor, but they also bring a delightful hint of spice. Next, drizzle in the olive oil and sprinkle the dried oregano over the mixture. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Toss all the ingredients gently until everything is evenly coated with olive oil and mixed thoroughly. At this point, you should be able to smell the freshness of your veggie mix!
- Now it’s time to bring everything together. Grab your serving platter and spread the hummus evenly across the surface, using the back of a spoon to create swirls and a lovely texture. This not only makes for an eye-catching presentation but also creates little pockets for the veggie mix to sit on. Once the hummus is nicely laid out, spoon the colorful veggie mixture over the top, letting it tumbling over the sides for a rustic look.
- For the finishing touches, sprinkle extra herbs atop the loaded hummus for a pop of green and flavor. A dusting of sumac or paprika adds the perfect hint of color and zest. If you’re feeling generous, you can also sprinkle some toasted pine nuts for an additional crunch. Serve with lemon wedges on the side, allowing guests to squeeze fresh lemon juice over their portions for a refreshing touch. It’s time to enjoy your Greek Style Loaded Hummus with pita chips or fresh cut veggies!
Notes
Loaded hummus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
Nutrition
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Protein: 6 g