Greek Style Loaded Hummus

Introduction

There’s something magical about hummus that makes it a universal favorite—creamy, smooth, and full of flavor. But let’s take it a step further: imagine a rich, velvety base of classic hummus topped with a medley of vibrant Mediterranean flavors. That’s exactly what this Greek Style Loaded Hummus is all about!

The creamy hummus, drizzled with tangy olive oil and topped with fresh veggies, crumbled feta, olives, and a handful of fragrant herbs, feels like an adventure for your taste buds. Every bite is a perfect balance of smoothness, crunch, saltiness, and a hint of acidity that makes it incredibly addictive.

This recipe has become one of my go-to crowd-pleasers because it’s easy to whip up and always gets rave reviews. Whether I’m hosting a casual get-together or just craving a snack, this Greek style hummus always hits the spot. Plus, it’s so versatile—serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main for a lighter meal. The best part? It’s simple to make, and you don’t need to be a professional chef to pull it off.

I first stumbled upon this Greek-inspired hummus at a Mediterranean restaurant during a vacation. The fresh flavors and vibrant presentation were unlike anything I’d ever tasted before. Ever since then, I’ve made it a staple in my kitchen, adjusting it to my personal tastes and making it the perfect addition to any gathering. It’s safe to say this dish has earned its place in my heart (and my recipe book!).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you why this Greek Style Loaded Hummus is an absolute must-try:

• Easy to make: This recipe has minimal prep time, and you don’t need fancy tools. All you need is a food processor (or a blender) and a few simple ingredients. It’s one of those dishes where you can feel like a pro without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-friendly: From kids to adults, everyone loves the fresh flavors and textures in this dish. The creamy hummus balances out the tangy feta and olives, while the cucumber and tomatoes add a refreshing crunch. Plus, you can always adjust the toppings to suit your family’s tastes.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of hummus, creamy feta, tangy Kalamata olives, crisp veggies, and a sprinkle of herbs creates a party of flavors in every bite. It’s rich, satisfying, and truly delicious. You can’t go wrong with Mediterranean ingredients like these.
• Customizable: One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily you can switch up the ingredients. Whether you want to add roasted red peppers, swap out the feta for goat cheese, or make it spicy with some hot peppers, this recipe can take on many different forms!

It’s the perfect dish when you’re looking for something easy, healthy, and super tasty.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 20 minutes (15 minutes prep, 5 minutes assembly)
• Servings: 6-8 servings (perfect for a small crowd or a family-style meal)
• Calories per serving: 300-350 (depending on toppings and serving size)
• Nutrition: High in healthy fats, fiber, and protein. Contains 12g of protein, 22g of fat, and 15g of carbs per serving.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this Greek Style Loaded Hummus:

• For the Hummus:
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/4 cup tahini (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Water (as needed to adjust consistency)
• For the Toppings:
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill (for garnish)
  • 1 tbsp olive tapenade (optional, for extra flavor)
  • A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
• Optional Add-ins:
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes (for heat)
  • 1 tbsp roasted red pepper (chopped)
  • A squeeze of fresh lemon juice

Why These Ingredients Matter:

• Chickpeas: The creamy base for the hummus. You could also use canned or freshly cooked chickpeas.
• Tahini: This sesame paste adds that signature creaminess and depth to the hummus.
• Lemon and Garlic: Both offer a tangy, zesty flavor that balances out the richness of the tahini.
• Feta Cheese: Adds a salty, creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the hummus.
• Olives and Vegetables: They provide a burst of freshness and crunch, adding texture and a Mediterranean flair.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1st Step: Prepare the Hummus Base

• Start by adding the chickpeas to your food processor (or high-speed blender). You can use canned chickpeas to save time, but if you want to go the extra mile, cook your own from dried beans. Either way, make sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly to avoid any tinny aftertaste.
• Next, add tahini, fresh lemon juice, garlic, ground cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper into the processor. The tahini provides that velvety smooth texture, while the lemon juice adds brightness and balance.
• Start processing on low, gradually increasing speed. If it feels too thick, drizzle in water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency. You can adjust the consistency based on your preference—some like their hummus a little thicker, others a bit runnier.
• Once everything is smooth, taste the hummus and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice, depending on your personal taste.

2nd Step: Prepare the Toppings

• Slice the Kalamata olives into rings. These olives are tangy and briny, and they add a pop of bold flavor to the hummus.
• Chop the cherry tomatoes in half, giving them a little squeeze to remove the seeds if you want less moisture in the final dish.
• Dice the cucumber into small pieces. This will add a refreshing crunch to balance the creamy hummus.
• Thinly slice the red onion, which will add a sharp bite and contrast beautifully with the rich hummus.
• Crumble the feta cheese into small pieces. The creamy, salty feta is a must-have in this recipe. It adds a tangy and rich element that takes the hummus to another level.

3rd Step: Assemble the Hummus

• Spread the hummus into a shallow serving dish or large plate, creating an even layer.
• Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of the hummus to add richness and make it look glossy and inviting.
• Now, it’s time to decorate! Scatter the Kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion across the surface of the hummus. Be generous here—this is what will make the dish truly “loaded” and gorgeous.
• Add a good sprinkling of crumbled feta cheese over the top, and garnish with fresh herbs. I love to use parsley or dill for that herbaceous freshness.
• If you’re looking for extra flavor, add a drizzle of olive tapenade or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to give the hummus a spicy kick.

4th Step: Serve and Enjoy!

Once everything is assembled, give it one last drizzle of olive oil over the top and maybe a little squeeze of fresh lemon juice. The final touch? Serve with a side of warm pita bread, veggie sticks, or even crackers for dipping.

How to Serve

This Greek Style Loaded Hummus is perfect for a variety of occasions. Here are some ideas for serving:

• Appetizer: Serve it as a starter with fresh pita bread, crisp veggie sticks (like carrots, celery, and bell peppers), or whole-grain crackers for dipping.
• Light Meal: Pair it with a Mediterranean salad or roasted vegetables for a light, refreshing meal.
• Party Platter: It makes an excellent addition to a mezze spread, alongside dishes like baba ganoush, tzatziki, and grilled skewers.
• Garnishes: You can also top it with extra herbs, a squeeze of lemon, or even a few roasted chickpeas for some extra crunch.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips to ensure your Greek Style Loaded Hummus turns out perfectly every time:

1. Use high-quality tahini: The flavor of tahini varies widely between brands. Try a few different ones to find one you love! A good tahini will make a huge difference in the final taste of your hummus.
2. Keep the hummus smooth: If the hummus seems too chunky, you can keep adding a little more water, a tablespoon at a time, until it’s silky smooth. The smoother the hummus, the better it will hold up with the toppings.
3. Drain the chickpeas well: It’s important to drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly to avoid any bitterness from the canned liquid. For an even creamier texture, you can peel the skins off the chickpeas!
4. Make it ahead: You can easily prepare the hummus the day before and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Just add the toppings right before serving for the best freshness.
5. Balance the toppings: While the toppings are what make this dish special, be sure not to overwhelm the hummus. A little goes a long way!

Recipe Variations

Here are some creative twists on this Greek Style Loaded Hummus that will keep things interesting:

1. Vegetarian Option: Add roasted red peppers or roasted vegetables like zucchini and eggplant for a smoky twist.
2. Spicy Version: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the hummus for some heat.
3. Gluten-Free: Serve this dish with gluten-free crackers, or try sliced cucumber rounds in place of pita bread for a refreshing, low-carb option.
4. Extra Protein: Add some grilled chicken or lamb on top for a heartier meal.
5. Vegan: Swap out the feta for vegan cheese or roasted chickpeas to keep the dish plant-based.

Freezing and Storage

To store leftovers:

• Refrigeration: Keep any leftover hummus in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover the surface of the hummus with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent it from drying out.
• Freezing: While hummus can be frozen, the texture may change slightly once thawed. To freeze, transfer the hummus to a freezer-safe container and cover with a layer of olive oil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

To store toppings:

• Store any leftover toppings (like olives, tomatoes, and feta) in separate airtight containers in the fridge. They’ll last for 2-3 days.

Special Equipment

To get the best results for this recipe, here are a few tools that will help:

• Food Processor: The key tool for making smooth, creamy hummus. If you don’t have a food processor, a high-speed blender will work too.
• Sharp Knife: For chopping the veggies and slicing the olives and tomatoes evenly.
• Serving Dish: A wide, shallow plate works best for displaying the hummus and toppings beautifully.

FAQ Section

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! The hummus can be made the day before and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Just add the toppings right before serving.

Can I use store-bought hummus?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought hummus and still enjoy all the fresh toppings. Just be sure to check the flavor and quality of the hummus before using.

How can I make this recipe spicier?
For a little extra kick, add chili flakes to the hummus or drizzle some spicy olive oil on top. You can also use hot peppers or hot sauce as an optional topping.

What’s the best way to serve hummus?
Serve it with pita, crackers, veggie sticks, or even use it as a spread on sandwiches and wraps. It’s also great with grilled meats and fish.

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Conclusion

I hope you’re as excited to try this Greek Style Loaded Hummus as I am to share it with you! It’s a dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to more formal gatherings. The combination of creamy hummus, vibrant toppings, and fresh herbs creates a flavor explosion in every bite.

I’d love to see your version of this hummus—whether you stick to the recipe or make your own creative twists! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media, or leave a comment below to share how it turned out. I know you’ll love it as much as I do!