Mediterranean Hummus Bowl

🥣 Servings

2–4 servings (as appetizer or light meal)

🛒 Ingredients

For the Creamy Hummus

• 1 can (15 oz / 400g) chickpeas, drained & rinsed

• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)

• ¼ cup tahini

• 1 small garlic clove

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• ½ tsp ground cumin

• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• 2–4 tbsp cold water (for smooth texture)

Optional (for extra smooth hummus):

• Peel chickpeas before blending

For the Mediterranean Topping

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (red & yellow), halved

• ½ cup cucumber, diced (Persian or English)

• ¼ cup Kalamata olives, halved

• ¼ cup cooked chickpeas (optional extra for topping)

• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese

• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• ½ tsp dried oregano

• Salt & black pepper to taste

For Garnish

• 1–2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)

• ½ tsp paprika or smoked paprika

• Pinch of chili flakes (optional)

🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Make the Hummus

1. In a food processor, add tahini and lemon juice.
   Blend 1 minute until creamy.

2. Add olive oil, garlic, cumin, and salt. Blend again.

3. Add chickpeas and blend until thick paste forms.

4. Slowly add cold water, 1 tbsp at a time, until smooth and creamy.

5. Blend for 2–3 minutes for ultra-smooth texture.

👉 Taste and adjust salt or lemon.

2️⃣ Prepare the Topping

1. In a bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and chickpeas.

2. Add olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.

3. Toss gently.

4. Fold in fresh dill and parsley.

3️⃣ Assemble the Bowl

1. Spread hummus into a wide shallow bowl.

2. Use back of spoon to create a swirl in the center.

3. Spoon Mediterranean salad mixture into the center.

4. Sprinkle crumbled feta on top.

5. Drizzle generously with olive oil.

6. Dust edges with paprika.

🌟 Flavor & Texture

• Creamy, smooth hummus

• Fresh, juicy tomatoes

• Crunchy cucumber

• Salty olives & feta

• Bright herbs

• Rich olive oil finish

🍞 What to Serve With

• Warm pita bread

• Toasted naan

• Flatbread

• Fresh veggies (carrots, bell peppers)

• As part of mezze platter

🔥 Pro Tips

✔ Blend tahini and lemon first for fluffier hummus
✔ Use ice-cold water for smoother texture
✔ Let flavors sit 15 minutes before serving
✔ Use high-quality olive oil for best taste

🧊 Storage

• Hummus: Refrigerate up to 5 days

• Topping: Best fresh (1–2 days max)

• Store separately for best texture