Description
This Loaded Hummus Dip Recipe is a vibrant and flavorful appetizer perfect for gatherings or a healthy snack. It combines creamy hummus with a colorful medley of fresh vegetables, tangy olives, and feta cheese, topped with herbs, spices, and optional toasted pine nuts for added texture. Served best with pita chips or sliced pita bread, this dip is easy to assemble and bursting with Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Hummus Base
- 2 cups hummus (store-bought or homemade)
Vegetable Toppings
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- ¼ cup pickled pepperoncini peppers (or bell peppers, diced)
Cheese and Herbs
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (or plant-based feta for a vegan option)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
Additional Toppings & Garnishes
- Capers, radishes, pickles, toasted chickpeas, or chopped chives (optional, to taste)
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a splash of red wine vinegar
- A sprinkle of paprika, cumin, or sumac
- Toasted pine nuts (optional)
Serving
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Pita chips or sliced pita bread
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Spread the 2 cups of hummus evenly onto a large serving platter or shallow bowl, creating a smooth surface to hold the toppings.
- Mix the Veggies: In a separate bowl, combine diced cherry tomatoes, cucumber, finely chopped red onion, Kalamata olives, and pickled pepperoncini peppers. Toss gently to mix the vegetables and distribute flavors.
- Assemble the Dip: Spoon the prepared veggie mixture evenly over the hummus base, allowing some of the juices from the veggies to drizzle down for added moisture and flavor.
- Add Cheese and Herbs: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese generously over the top. Follow with chopped fresh parsley or dill and dried oregano to enhance the aroma and freshness.
- Garnish and Season: Add optional toppings such as capers, radishes, pickles, toasted chickpeas, or chopped chives to add different textures and tastes. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over everything and add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a splash of red wine vinegar for brightness.
- Final Touches: Sprinkle paprika, cumin, or sumac for a pop of color and extra flavor. If desired, scatter toasted pine nuts on top for crunch.
- Serve: Serve the loaded hummus dip immediately with warm pita chips or sliced pita bread and lemon wedges on the side for squeezing.
Notes
- For a vegan option, substitute feta cheese with plant-based feta or omit it entirely.
- Feel free to customize the toppings based on what you have on hand; additional vegetables or pickled items work well.
- This dip is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours; add fresh herbs and olive oil before serving if prepared in advance.
- To make homemade hummus, blend chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and seasoning until smooth.
- Adjust spices like paprika, cumin, and sumac according to taste preferences.
