This Greek Style Loaded Hummus is a fun and tasty way to enjoy healthy snacking! It’s made with creamy hummus topped with fresh veggies, feta cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil.
I love serving this dish with pita chips or crunchy veggies. It’s always a hit at parties, and honestly, who can say no to all that colorful goodness? Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: These are the star of hummus! For a twist, you can use white beans or black beans. If you’re feeling adventurous, try roasted chickpeas for a different flavor!
Tahini: This sesame seed paste adds creaminess. If you’re avoiding tahini, try sunflower seed butter or peanut butter instead. You’ll lose some original flavor, but it will still be tasty!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a nice kick. If you prefer a milder taste, use garlic powder instead, about 1/2 teaspoon should do it. Roasted garlic is another excellent choice for a sweeter flavor.
Lemon Juice: Fresh is best for brightness. You can substitute with vinegar if lemons are out of reach, although it won’t have the same zesty kick.
Feta Cheese: This cheese is classic in Greek dishes. If you want a dairy-free option, crumble some seasoned tofu or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Hummus Consistency?
Getting your hummus creamy and smooth takes a bit of technique. Start with high-quality, well-drained chickpeas for the best flavor. After processing the initial ingredients, you may find it too thick. Here’s how to fix it:
- Add water slowly, just one tablespoon at a time, blending after each addition until it reaches your desired creaminess.
- If you have time, soak dried chickpeas overnight and cook them instead of using canned for an even softer texture.
Don’t rush the blending! A few extra minutes in the food processor can make a great difference in creaminess. Aim for a fluffy texture, and you’ll have the perfect base for your loaded toppings!
Greek Style Loaded Hummus Recipe for Healthy Snacking
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Hummus:
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt to taste
- For the Toppings:
- 1/4 cup chopped cucumbers
- 1/4 cup chopped cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: sprinkle of dried oregano or paprika for garnish
- For Serving:
- Pita chips or sliced fresh vegetables
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, and you can serve it right away! It’s quick and perfect for a healthy snack or appetizer when you’re short on time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Hummus:
Start by placing the drained chickpeas, tahini, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, and a pinch of salt in a food processor. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, no worries! Just add a little water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the salt if needed.
2. Prepare the Serving Dish:
Once your hummus is ready, scoop it out into a beautiful serving dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly across the bottom for a lovely presentation.
3. Add the Fresh Toppings:
Now comes the fun part! Top the hummus with the chopped cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top. It should look colorful and appetizing!
4. Drizzle and Garnish:
Finish off by drizzling extra virgin olive oil over the top of the loaded hummus for added flavor. Then, sprinkle with the chopped parsley and if you like, a dash of dried oregano or paprika for some extra flair!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve this delicious Greek Style Loaded Hummus right away with pita chips or fresh veggie sticks. It’s healthy, satisfying, and oh-so-tasty! Enjoy your snacking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Dried Chickpeas Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and then cook until tender. You’ll need about 1/2 cup of dried chickpeas to replace one can. Don’t forget to drain and rinse them well after cooking!
How Can I Make a Flavor Variation of This Hummus?
Get creative! You can add roasted red peppers for a sweet, smoky flavor, or toss in some spicy jalapeños for a kick. Fresh herbs like dill or mint can also enhance the flavor profile. Just blend them in with the main ingredients!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Hummus?
Store any leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. To keep it fresh, add a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing it, which helps prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make This Hummus Ahead of Time?
Yes, making the hummus a day in advance is a great idea! It allows the flavors to meld together nicely. Just prepare everything and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply add the toppings and enjoy!
