Hummus and Veggie Platter

Introduction

A Hummus and Veggie Platter isn’t just a snack—it’s a feast for the senses! With its colorful assortment of crisp veggies, creamy hummus, and endless pairing possibilities, this platter is perfect for sharing and savoring. Whether you prefer classic hummus, roasted red pepper, or a zesty lemon twist, there’s always a way to make it your own.

The magic of this platter is in its versatility. From crunchy bell peppers and cucumbers to roasted pita chips and olives, every bite offers a new texture and flavor. It’s the kind of dish that looks as good as it tastes, making it an instant hit at any gathering.

So next time you need a quick, healthy, and absolutely delicious snack, whip up a hummus and veggie platter. And if you do, don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I’d love to see your beautiful creations!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this Hummus and Veggie Platter will be your new go-to snack:

• Healthy and Nutritious – Packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins.
• Quick and Easy – Takes only minutes to assemble.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for parties, gatherings, or solo snacking.
• Customizable – Mix and match your favorite veggies and dippers.
• Gluten-Free and Vegan – Naturally suitable for various dietary preferences.
• A Beautiful Presentation – Colorful, fresh, and visually appealing.
• Budget-Friendly – Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
• Kid-Approved – A fun way to encourage kids to eat more veggies.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Prep it in advance for easy entertaining.
• Pairs Well with Everything – Enjoy it with pita chips, crackers, or even warm naan!

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 people
• Calories per serving: Approximately 180 calories
• Key Nutrients: Fiber: 4g, Protein: 6g, Healthy Fats: 8g

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to build the perfect Hummus and Veggie Platter:

For the Hummus:

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• ¼ cup tahini
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• 2-4 tablespoons water (for consistency)

the Veggies:

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber slices
• 1 cup baby carrots
• 1 cup bell pepper strips (red, yellow, or green)
• 1 cup snap peas
• 1 cup radish slices

For Extra Dippers (Optional):

• Pita bread, sliced into triangles
• Pita chips or crackers
• Olives (black or green)
• Cheese cubes
• Roasted nuts

Ingredient Highlights

• Chickpeas: The creamy base of hummus, rich in protein and fiber.
• Tahini: Adds a nutty richness and authentic flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Enhances freshness with a bright citrusy zing.
• Bell Peppers: Sweet, crunchy, and loaded with vitamin C.
• Pita Chips: The perfect crunchy companion for scooping up hummus.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Hummus

1. Blend Ingredients: In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and cumin.
2. Adjust Consistency: Add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until smooth and creamy.
3. Taste & Adjust: Add more salt, lemon, or cumin if needed.

Prepare the Veggies

1. Wash & Slice: Rinse all vegetables and pat dry.
2. Arrange Neatly: Slice cucumbers, bell peppers, and radishes for easy dipping.

Assemble the Platter

1. Place Hummus in a Bowl: Spoon hummus into a serving bowl and drizzle with olive oil.
2. Arrange Veggies & Dippers: Neatly arrange the veggies and extras around the hummus.
3. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle hummus with paprika or chopped parsley for extra flavor.

How to Serve

Here are some creative ways to serve your Hummus and Veggie Platter:

1. On a Large Board: Arrange ingredients on a wooden serving board for a rustic touch.
2. Mini Personal Platters: Create smaller plates for individual servings.
3. With Extra Flavors: Offer multiple hummus flavors, like roasted red pepper or garlic.
4. As a Party Appetizer: Serve it alongside other finger foods for a well-rounded snack table.
5. Paired with Wine or Cocktails: Complements light, refreshing drinks.
6. Family-Style Dinner: Serve it as a light side dish.
7. Lunchbox Idea: Pack a mini version for a healthy work or school snack.
8. As a Wrap or Sandwich Filler: Use leftover hummus and veggies in a pita or tortilla wrap.

Additional Tips

Take your hummus platter to the next level with these expert tips:

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies make all the difference in taste.
2. Make Hummus in Advance: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days for easy meal prep.
3. Experiment with Spices: Add smoked paprika, chili flakes, or za’atar for extra flavor.
4. Use Warm Pita Bread: Slightly toasting it makes it even more delicious.
5. Add a Drizzle: A final drizzle of olive oil over hummus enhances flavor.
6. Include Crunch: Nuts or seeds add great texture.
7. Try Roasted Veggies: Roasted carrots or zucchini bring a new depth of flavor.
8. Swap Tahini: If allergic, use Greek yogurt or cashew butter instead.
9. Use Ice Water for Creaminess: Blending hummus with ice water makes it extra smooth.
10. Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or drizzle of hot sauce for heat.

Recipe Variations

Want to switch up your Hummus and Veggie Platter? Here are some fun and flavorful variations to keep things exciting!

Hummus Variations

• Roasted Garlic Hummus – Blend roasted garlic cloves into the hummus for a deep, sweet, and savory flavor.
• Spicy Sriracha Hummus – Add a dash of Sriracha or cayenne pepper for a fiery kick.
• Avocado Hummus – Blend in ripe avocado for an ultra-creamy texture and a hint of freshness.
• Beet Hummus – Add roasted or boiled beets for a vibrant pink color and earthy sweetness.
• Sun-Dried Tomato Hummus – Mix in sun-dried tomatoes and a bit of their oil for a tangy, rich flavor.
• Greek Yogurt Hummus – Stir in Greek yogurt for extra creaminess and a protein boost.

Veggie Variations

• Grilled Vegetables – Try grilled zucchini, eggplant, or asparagus for a smoky flavor.
• Pickled Veggies – Add tangy pickled carrots, radishes, or onions for extra zing.
• Seasoned Veggies – Toss cucumbers or bell peppers with lemon juice, salt, and a pinch of chili flakes.
• Exotic Additions – Try jicama sticks, fennel slices, or kohlrabi for a unique crunch.

Freezing and Storage

Proper storage keeps your Hummus and Veggie Platter fresh and delicious for longer. Here’s how to store each component to maintain optimal taste and texture.

• Hummus Storage
• Refrigerator: Store homemade hummus in an airtight container for up to 5 days. To prevent drying out, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing.
• Freezer: Hummus freezes well! Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Leave some space for expansion, and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. Stir well after thawing to restore the creamy texture.
• Portioning Tip: Freeze hummus in small portions (ice cube trays or individual containers) for easy, single-use servings.
• Veggie Storage
• Refrigerator: Keep pre-cut veggies in separate airtight containers or resealable bags. Store with a damp paper towel to maintain crispness. Most veggies last 2-4 days when stored properly.
• Best Storage Method for Each Veggie:
  • Carrots & Celery: Store in a container with a bit of water to keep them fresh.
  • Cucumbers & Bell Peppers: Keep dry and sealed in an airtight container.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: Store at room temperature for the best flavor, or refrigerate if sliced.
  • Radishes & Snap Peas: Store in a container with a dry paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
• Pita & Crackers Storage
• Pita Bread: Store in a resealable bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in an airtight bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or on a skillet for the best texture.
• Pita Chips & Crackers: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks to maintain crispness.

FAQ Section

Got questions? Here are some common FAQs about Hummus and Veggie Platters:

• Can I make hummus without tahini?
  Yes! Substitute tahini with Greek yogurt, sunflower butter, or more olive oil.
• How do I keep veggies fresh for longer?
  Store sliced veggies in airtight containers with a damp paper towel to keep them crisp.
• What can I serve besides veggies?
  Pita bread, crackers, pretzels, and even tortilla chips work great!
• Is hummus healthy?
  Yes! It’s packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a nutritious choice.
• Can I make hummus without a food processor?
  Absolutely! Use a blender or mash chickpeas with a fork for a chunkier texture.
• How do I thicken or thin out hummus?
  Add more tahini or chickpeas to thicken; add more lemon juice or water to thin it out.

Print

Conclusion

A Hummus and Veggie Platter is the perfect combination of health, flavor, and convenience. Whether you’re making it for a party, meal prep, or a quick snack, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Plus, with endless customization options, you can tailor it to your preferences every time. So grab your favorite veggies, whip up some homemade hummus, and enjoy a delicious and nourishing treat!

Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media – I love seeing your delicious creations!for a nutritious snack, or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is a fantastic choice.

So grab your favorite veggies, whip up some creamy hummus, and enjoy this simple yet satisfying platter! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing your delicious creations!