A creamy, velvety hummus base topped with a rainbow of Mediterranean vegetables, briny olives, crumbled feta, and a drizzle of golden olive oil.

This dish captures the heart of the Mediterranean — simple, wholesome ingredients transformed into a colorful and flavorful experience. Perfect as an appetizer, lunch, or shared platter for entertaining.

🧄 Ingredients

Serves 6–8 as an appetizer

For the Hummus Base:

  • 2 cans (15 oz / 425 g each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed (reserve a few tablespoons of the liquid, called aquafaba)
  • ⅓ cup tahini (sesame paste)
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
  • 1–2 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
  • 2–4 tablespoons cold water or aquafaba, for desired consistency

For the Mediterranean Toppings:

  • 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved (mix of red, yellow, and orange for color)
  • ½ English cucumber, thinly sliced
  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh mint or dill (optional)
  • 1–2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
  • Pinch of paprika or sumac, for garnish

Optional Additions:

  • Roasted red peppers, chopped
  • Artichoke hearts
  • Capers or pickled onions
  • Toasted pine nuts

🧑‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Chickpeas

  1. Drain and rinse chickpeas well.
  2. For ultra-smooth hummus, peel the chickpeas by gently rubbing them in a clean kitchen towel — this removes the skins and creates a silkier texture.
  3. Optional: Warm chickpeas in a small saucepan with a splash of water for 5 minutes before blending. Warm chickpeas blend creamier.

2. Blend the Hummus

  1. In a food processor, combine tahini and lemon juice. Blend for about 1 minute until creamy — this step helps whip the tahini into a lighter base.
  2. Add the olive oil, garlic, cumin, and salt. Process again for 30 seconds.
  3. Add half of the chickpeas and blend until smooth. Then add the remaining chickpeas and blend for another minute.
  4. With the motor running, slowly drizzle in cold water or aquafaba, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach a soft, creamy consistency.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning — add more salt, lemon, or olive oil as desired.

3. Plate the Hummus

  1. Transfer the hummus to a shallow serving bowl or platter.
  2. Use the back of a spoon to swirl and create a shallow “well” in the center.
  3. Drizzle generously with extra-virgin olive oil.

4. Add the Mediterranean Toppings

Arrange toppings artistically over the hummus, following the natural shape of the bowl:

  • Start with sliced cucumbers and red onions.
  • Add halved tomatoes and Kalamata olives.
  • Sprinkle crumbled feta and fresh parsley on top.
  • Finish with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of paprika or sumac for color.

Tip: You can also serve the toppings in separate sections for a beautiful rainbow effect, as seen in your image.

5. Serve

Serve your Mediterranean Mezze Hummus Platter with:

  • Warm pita bread or flatbread, cut into triangles
  • Pita chips or crackers
  • Fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, or bell peppers

🌸 Optional Variations

1. Mediterranean Roasted Garlic Hummus:
Roast a whole garlic bulb until soft and golden. Squeeze the roasted cloves into the hummus before blending for a sweeter, milder flavor.

2. Greek-Inspired Hummus Platter:
Top with chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta, and a sprinkle of oregano.

3. Spicy Mediterranean Hummus:
Add 1 teaspoon of harissa or smoked paprika to the base for a warm kick.

🫒 Chef’s Tips

  • Use quality olive oil: A peppery, fruity extra-virgin olive oil brings authentic Mediterranean character.
  • Chill before serving: Hummus tastes best slightly chilled; let it sit for 30 minutes before topping.
  • Presentation matters: The vibrant veggies not only add freshness but make this dish stunning for entertaining.

🍽️ Storage

  • Store leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Keep toppings separate until serving to maintain freshness.

🌿 Serving Ideas

This platter pairs beautifully with:

  • Grilled meats or seafood (like lamb skewers or shrimp)
  • Mediterranean salads (tabbouleh, fattoush, or Greek salad)
  • Mezze spreads with tzatziki, baba ganoush, or falafel

✨ Summary

The Mediterranean Mezze Hummus Platter is a feast for both the eyes and taste buds — creamy hummus swirled with golden olive oil and crowned with a rainbow of crisp, juicy vegetables, briny olives, and tangy feta. It’s fresh, nourishing, and perfect for sharing, whether at a sunny picnic or cozy dinner table.