Greek Style Loaded Hummus

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Introduction

Greek Style Loaded Hummus is the perfect combination of creamy and vibrant flavors that transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean. This dish takes traditional hummus to the next level with an assortment of fresh toppings that bring a delightful burst of color and texture. The velvety smooth hummus serves as the base, while toppings like tangy feta, Kalamata olives, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil elevate it to something truly special. The result is a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing, perfect for any occasion.

This recipe has become a family favorite for me, often making an appearance at gatherings and casual get-togethers. The combination of the rich, earthy hummus with the fresh, crunchy toppings is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s a dish that brings people together, with each bite offering a perfect balance of creamy, salty, and tangy flavors. The addition of fresh herbs like parsley or oregano enhances the Mediterranean flair, making every bite feel like a little escape to the Greek islands.

Greek Style Loaded Hummus is a great appetizer or light snack, especially when served with warm pita bread or crunchy vegetable sticks. It’s an easy-to-make dish that feels luxurious without being overly complicated, making it the ideal option for impressing guests or enjoying a simple, delicious treat at home. Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying a quiet afternoon, this hummus is sure to become a go-to in your recipe repertoire!

Perfect for:

  • Appetizers or snacks
  • Mediterranean food lovers
  • Vegan-friendly gatherings
  • Quick and easy meals
  • Parties and potlucks

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Greek Style Loaded Hummus will become your go-to dish:

  • Packed with Flavor: A delicious blend of creamy hummus, tangy feta, fresh vegetables, and olives, creating a bold Mediterranean flavor profile.
  • Easy and Quick: Made in under 15 minutes, it’s the perfect last-minute appetizer or snack.
  • Versatile: Perfect for dipping pita bread, veggies, or crackers, or served as part of a mezze platter.
  • Healthy and Light: Full of fresh, nutritious ingredients that are as good for you as they are tasty.
  • Customizable: Add or subtract toppings based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: None (no cooking required)
  • Servings: 4-6 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 150-200 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 6g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Greek Style Loaded Hummus:

  • 1 ½ cups hummus (store-bought or homemade)
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes, diced
  • ½ cucumber, diced
  • ¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
  • ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Pita bread, crackers, or fresh veggies for dipping

Ingredient Highlights

  • Hummus: The base of this dish, providing a smooth, rich texture and nutty flavor.
  • Fresh Vegetables: Cucumbers and tomatoes add crunch and freshness, balancing the creamy hummus.
  • Olives and Feta: Classic Mediterranean ingredients that provide saltiness, tang, and depth of flavor.
  • Olive Oil and Lemon: A drizzle of olive oil enhances the richness of the hummus, while lemon juice brightens the flavors.
  • Herbs: Fresh parsley and oregano add a burst of color and an aromatic layer to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Greek Style Loaded Hummus:

Prepare the Base:

  1. Spread the Hummus: In a shallow serving bowl or platter, spread the hummus evenly to cover the bottom. You can also use a large plate or a serving tray.

Top with Fresh Ingredients:

  1. Add the Vegetables: Arrange the diced cucumber and cherry tomatoes over the hummus in a decorative pattern.
  2. Add the Olives: Scatter the sliced Kalamata olives on top of the hummus for an authentic Mediterranean touch.
  3. Top with Feta: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese generously over the vegetables.

Drizzle and Garnish:

  1. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Lightly drizzle olive oil over the entire dish for added richness and a glossy finish.
  2. Add Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle the fresh parsley and oregano on top for a burst of color and freshness.
  3. Season: Add a squeeze of lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy:

  1. Serve Immediately: Serve the Greek Style Loaded Hummus with pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping. Enjoy immediately while fresh!

How to Serve

Greek Style Loaded Hummus can be served in a variety of ways to enhance its visual appeal and taste:

  • Mezze Platter: Serve alongside other Mediterranean dishes like falafel, tabbouleh, and tzatziki for a complete mezze spread.
  • Party Dip: Place in small bowls and serve with an assortment of dips like baba ganoush, roasted red pepper hummus, and guacamole.
  • Casual Snack: Perfect for a quick snack with pita chips, fresh veggies like carrots and celery, or even pretzels.
  • Individual Portions: Serve in small individual bowls for easy serving and a more sophisticated presentation at dinner parties.
  • Garnish with Extra Feta: Add more crumbled feta cheese for an even creamier and tangier bite.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips for making your Greek Style Loaded Hummus even better:

  • Use Homemade Hummus: If you have the time, homemade hummus will give your dish a richer, more personalized flavor.
  • Chill the Hummus: While not necessary, chilling the hummus for 30 minutes before serving can help the flavors meld together better.
  • Adjust the Toppings: Feel free to swap out any ingredients based on your preferences—avocado, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers are great options.
  • Add Protein: For a more substantial snack, add grilled chicken or lamb for extra protein.
  • Use High-Quality Olive Oil: The quality of olive oil can make a big difference in the final taste of the dish, so opt for extra virgin olive oil for the best results.

Recipe Variations

Here are 10 variations to try with your Greek Style Loaded Hummus:

  1. Spicy Greek Hummus: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
  2. Roasted Vegetables: Top with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, eggplant, or zucchini for a smoky flavor.
  3. Avocado Hummus: Add mashed avocado to the hummus base for a creamy, smooth texture.
  4. Grilled Chicken Topping: Add slices of grilled chicken or gyro meat for a heartier version.
  5. Sun-Dried Tomato Hummus: Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the hummus for extra depth and sweetness.
  6. Pine Nuts and Mint: Add toasted pine nuts and fresh mint for a crunchy texture and fresh flavor.
  7. Crispy Chickpeas: Top with crispy roasted chickpeas for a crunchy element.
  8. Greek Yogurt Drizzle: Drizzle a bit of Greek yogurt on top for an extra creamy finish.
  9. Tzatziki-Inspired Hummus: Add diced cucumber and garlic to the hummus for a tzatziki-inspired flavor.
  10. Lemon and Dill Hummus: Add fresh dill and extra lemon zest for a fresh, tangy variation.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Hummus can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, place the hummus in an airtight container, leaving space at the top for expansion. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to add fresh toppings just before serving to maintain the freshness of the vegetables and cheese.

Special Equipment

Here are some items that can help make preparing Greek Style Loaded Hummus easier:

  1. Shallow Serving Dish: A flat bowl or platter allows you to spread the hummus and layer the toppings beautifully.
  2. Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for chopping the vegetables, olives, and herbs.
  3. Small Bowl: For preparing the lemon juice and olive oil drizzle.
  4. Spoon or Spatula: For spreading the hummus evenly in the serving dish.
  5. Grater or Zester: For zesting lemon if you wish to add extra citrus flavor.
  6. Serving Tray: Serve on a large tray to display the loaded hummus alongside other dips.
  7. Measuring Spoons: For accurate portions of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use store-bought hummus?
    Yes, store-bought hummus works perfectly for this recipe. Choose a high-quality, creamy variety for the best taste.
  2. Can I make this in advance?
    Yes, you can prepare the hummus and topping ingredients in advance, but it’s best to add the fresh veggies and drizzle just before serving.
  3. Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
    Yes, this dish is vegan if you skip the feta cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
  4. Can I add meat to this recipe?
    Yes, grilled chicken or lamb would be great additions to make this more filling.
  5. What can I substitute for feta cheese?
    You can use goat cheese, ricotta salata, or a dairy-free feta alternative.
  6. How do I store leftovers?
    Store the hummus in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Fresh toppings should be added before serving.
  7. What can I serve with this hummus?
    Serve with pita bread, crackers, fresh vegetables (carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers), or even grilled flatbread.
  8. Can I use canned hummus?
    Yes, canned hummus can be used, but fresh or homemade hummus will offer a creamier texture and more robust flavor.
  9. How can I make this a full meal?
    Add grilled chicken or lamb and serve with a side salad to create a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Conclusion

Greek Style Loaded Hummus is the perfect dish to bring a burst of vibrant flavors to your table, offering a fresh, Mediterranean-inspired experience in every bite. The creamy, smooth hummus serves as an ideal base for an exciting array of toppings, from crisp cucumber and juicy tomatoes to briny olives and tangy feta cheese. With its balanced combination of textures and flavors, this dish is not only a satisfying appetizer but also a versatile addition to any meal, whether enjoyed as a light lunch or shared at a gathering. The beauty of Greek Style Loaded Hummus lies in its simplicity and customization—add your favorite ingredients to make it uniquely yours. Perfect for both casual dining and special occasions, this dish is sure to impress guests and quickly become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, indulge in the Mediterranean goodness, and savor each mouthwatering bite!

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