Hummus & Pita Plate: The Amazing Ultimate Recipe for Any Occasion

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hummus & Pita Plate is the ultimate in simplicity, flavor, and versatility. It’s not only incredibly easy to prepare but also offers a balance of textures and tastes that everyone will enjoy. The rich and creamy hummus pairs perfectly with the crisp pita wedges and the refreshing, crunchy vegetables. Whether you’re serving it for a party or just as a quick snack, this dish provides a healthy and satisfying option. It’s also a great choice for vegetarians and vegans, and can be customized with your favorite fresh toppings!

Ingredients

1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup tahini
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt, to taste
Water, as needed for consistency
4-6 whole pita bread, cut into wedges
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, sliced
1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
1/4 cup Kalamata olives
A sprinkle of paprika (for garnish)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Hummus & Pita Plate: The Amazing Ultimate Recipe for Any Occasion

Directions

Make the Hummus: In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and salt.
Blend: Process the mixture until smooth. Add water gradually, blending until you reach your desired consistency.
Adjust Seasonings: Taste your hummus and adjust with more salt, lemon juice, or garlic as needed to enhance the flavor.
Transfer the Hummus: Spoon the hummus into a serving bowl and drizzle with a little extra olive oil for richness. Sprinkle a pinch of paprika over the top for an added touch of flavor and color.
Prepare Pita Wedges: Cut the pita bread into triangles, then arrange them neatly on a platter.
Arrange Accompaniments: Place the cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red bell pepper, and olives around the hummus on the platter for a fresh, colorful display.
Garnish: Finish by sprinkling fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and extra freshness.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Add Spices: For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a pinch of ground coriander, smoked paprika, or chili flakes to the hummus.
Swap Veggies: Customize the platter with additional fresh vegetables like carrot sticks, radishes, or celery for added crunch.
Roasted Garlic Hummus: Roast the garlic beforehand to create a sweeter, milder flavor.
Avocado Hummus: Blend in half an avocado with the hummus for a creamy twist.
Grilled Pita: Toast or grill the pita wedges for an extra crispy texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. The pita can be stored separately in a sealed bag or container for a day or two.
Freezing: Hummus freezes well! Portion it into smaller containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: Pita is best served fresh, but you can reheat it in the oven for a few minutes to restore its crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I make this hummus ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the hummus a day in advance and store it in the fridge. The flavors will meld and develop over time.

2. Can I use store-bought pita for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought pita bread works just fine, but feel free to toast or grill it for extra flavor and texture.

3. Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, you can use dried chickpeas, but you’ll need to soak and cook them before making the hummus. This will take additional time.

4. How can I make the hummus smoother?

For an extra smooth texture, peel the skins off the chickpeas before blending or use a high-speed blender for a finer consistency.

5. Can I add more lemon juice to the hummus?

Yes, feel free to adjust the lemon juice to your taste. If you love a tangy flavor, you can add more.

6. What can I serve this with besides pita?

You can also serve it with vegetable sticks like carrots, cucumbers, and celery, or even crackers for an extra crunchy bite.

7. Can I use a different kind of oil for the hummus?

Yes, you can use other oils like avocado oil or even flavored oils like chili oil for a unique twist.

8. Can I make this recipe without tahini?

If you’re out of tahini, you can substitute it with a small amount of Greek yogurt or peanut butter, though it will alter the flavor slightly.

9. How can I make the hummus spicier?

For a spicy kick, add some cayenne pepper, jalapeño, or hot sauce to the hummus while blending.

10. Can I make this a meal rather than just an appetizer?

Definitely! This hummus and pita plate can easily be turned into a more substantial meal by adding proteins like grilled chicken, falafel, or hard-boiled eggs.

Conclusion

This Hummus & Pita Plate is the ultimate appetizer or snack for any occasion. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly versatile. With its creamy hummus, crispy pita, and fresh veggies, this dish offers a healthy and satisfying option that’s perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting friends, enjoying a family meal, or craving a snack, this recipe is sure to please.