Middle Eastern Mezze Platter

This Middle Eastern Mezze Platter is a vibrant, shareable assortment of classic appetizers, featuring creamy hummus, briny olives, tangy cheese, warm pita, and crisp vegetables. It is the perfect choice for social gatherings or a light, refreshing meal that brings authentic Mediterranean flavors to your table with minimal effort.

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The centerpiece of this platter is the homemade hummus, a velvety blend of chickpeas and tahini seasoned with garlic and cumin. Surrounded by a rainbow of fresh cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers, it offers a satisfying balance of creamy, crunchy, and briny textures that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1½ cups (400 g) cooked chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• ¼ cup (60 ml) tahini
• 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp salt
• 2–3 tbsp cold water
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, sliced
• 1 cup red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup carrot sticks
• 1 cup mixed olives (green and Kalamata), pitted if desired
• 150 g feta cheese, cut into cubes or slices
• 4 pita breads, cut into triangles
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• 1 tsp sumac or paprika (optional)
• Lemon wedges (optional)

Stir sauces, sauté vegetables, and serve meals gently while adding a charming touch to everyday cooking.

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Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the hummus: In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, and salt. Blend until smooth, adding cold water a tablespoon at a time to reach desired creaminess. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 2

Arrange the hummus in a shallow bowl or spread on a platter. Drizzle with extra olive oil and sprinkle with sumac or paprika.

Step 3

Artfully arrange cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, carrot sticks, olives, and feta cheese around the hummus.

Step 4

Warm the pita bread if desired, then cut into triangles and add to the platter.

Step 5

Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To achieve the smoothest hummus texture, ensure your food processor runs until the mixture is completely silky, and don't hesitate to use the full amount of cold water. Pre-slicing the vegetables into uniform sticks or slices makes the platter more visually appealing and easier for guests to dip.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For extra flavor, you can add roasted red peppers or a pinch of smoked paprika directly into the hummus blend. If you prefer a different cheese, swap the feta for labneh or goat cheese. To make the platter gluten-free, simply substitute the pita with gluten-free crackers or bread.

Serviervorschläge

For a larger feast, consider adding stuffed grape leaves, falafel, or a side of fresh tabbouleh. This mezze platter pairs exceptionally well with a crisp white wine or a traditional hot mint tea to cleanse the palate between bites.

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Whether enjoyed as a light dinner or the star of your next party, this Middle Eastern Mezze Platter is a testament to the beauty of simple, high-quality ingredients. With its balance of healthy fats, protein, and fresh produce, it is a meal that looks as good as it tastes.

Bake lasagna, casseroles, and roasted dishes evenly, then serve straight from oven to table.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make the hummus ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the hummus up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Add the olive oil drizzle and garnishes just before serving for the best presentation.

→ What's the best way to warm pita bread?

Wrap pita in foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, or place directly over a gas flame for a few seconds per side. Warm pita remains soft and pliable for dipping and wrapping.

→ Can I make this platter gluten-free?

Absolutely. Simply substitute gluten-free pita bread or serve with gluten-free crackers instead. Always verify that all packaged ingredients, especially tahini and seasonings, are certified gluten-free.

→ What cheeses work best as feta alternatives?

Labneh, goat cheese, and halloumi are excellent substitutes for feta. Labneh provides a similar tangy flavor, while goat cheese offers a creamier texture. Choose based on your flavor preference and dietary needs.

→ How long can a mezze platter sit out?

Keep the platter at room temperature for up to 2 hours. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate if serving later. Refresh wilted vegetables and bring hummus to room temperature before serving again.

→ What vegetables can I substitute or add?

Try roasted red peppers, radishes, celery, fennel, or eggplant. Pickled vegetables like turnips or cauliflower add nice tang. Choose colorful options for visual appeal and varied textures.