Middle Eastern Mezze Platter (Print Version)

Colorful assortment of classic Middle Eastern appetizers featuring hummus, olives, cheese, vegetables, and pita bread.

# What You'll Need:

→ Hummus

01 - 1½ cups (400 g) cooked chickpeas, drained and rinsed
02 - ¼ cup tahini
03 - 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
04 - 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
05 - 1 small garlic clove, minced
06 - ½ tsp ground cumin
07 - ½ tsp salt
08 - 2–3 tbsp cold water

→ Vegetables

09 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
10 - 1 cup cucumber, sliced
11 - 1 cup red bell pepper, sliced
12 - 1 cup carrot sticks

→ Olives & Cheese

13 - 1 cup mixed olives (green and Kalamata), pitted if desired
14 - 5.3 oz feta cheese, cut into cubes or slices

→ Bread

15 - 4 pita breads, cut into triangles

→ Garnishes

16 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
17 - 1 tsp sumac or paprika
18 - Lemon wedges

# How To Make It:

01 - 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.
02 - Arrange the hummus in a shallow bowl or spread on a platter. Drizzle with extra olive oil and sprinkle with sumac or paprika.
03 - Artfully arrange cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, carrot sticks, olives, and feta cheese around the hummus.
04 - Warm the pita bread if desired, then cut into triangles and add to the platter.
05 - Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes with zero cooking time required.
  • Healthy and Nutritious: A vegetarian dish offering 10g of protein and fresh fiber-rich vegetables.
  • Perfect for Sharing: This yield of 6 servings makes it an ideal center-piece for any appetizer spread.
02 -
  • Texture Control: Use very cold water when blending the hummus to create a lighter, fluffier consistency.
  • Allergen Awareness: This dish contains sesame, wheat, and dairy; always check labels if serving guests with sensitivities.
  • Freshness: Serve the platter immediately after assembly to ensure the vegetables stay crisp and the pita remains soft.
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