Halftime Hummus Platter Veggies (Printable Version)
Enjoy a vibrant platter of creamy hummus paired with crisp, colorful vegetables, ideal for any gathering or game day.
# What You Need:
→ Hummus Base
01 - 1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
02 - 1/4 cup tahini
03 - 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus additional for drizzling
04 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
05 - 1 garlic clove, minced
06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
08 - 2 to 3 tablespoons cold water
→ Fresh Vegetable Accompaniments
09 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
10 - 1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
11 - 1 cup baby carrots
12 - 1 cup bell pepper strips (red, yellow, or orange)
13 - 1 cup sugar snap peas
14 - 1/2 cup radishes, thinly sliced
→ Garnishes
15 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
16 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
17 - 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts (optional)
# How to Make It:
01 - In the bowl of a food processor, combine the drained chickpeas, tahini, 3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, and salt. Process the mixture until it achieves a smooth consistency, pausing to scrape down the sides of the bowl as necessary. Gradually add the cold water, one tablespoon at a time, continuing to blend until your desired texture is reached. Taste and adjust seasonings if required.
02 - Transfer the prepared hummus to a large serving platter or a shallow bowl. Using the back of a spoon, gently create a decorative swirl pattern on the surface of the hummus.
03 - Lightly drizzle additional extra-virgin olive oil over the hummus. Sprinkle generously with smoked paprika and chopped fresh parsley. If using, scatter the toasted pine nuts over the top.
04 - Artfully arrange the prepared fresh vegetables, such as halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, baby carrots, bell pepper strips, sugar snap peas, and sliced radishes, around the hummus. Present them in distinct sections for an appealing and colorful display.
05 - Serve the hummus platter immediately as a refreshing and healthy snack or appetizer.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It's a genuine crowd-pleaser that disappears faster than you can say "touchdown," and it's surprisingly healthy too.
- You can taste the freshness in every bite, making store-bought versions feel like a distant memory once you try this.
02 -
- Never underestimate the power of fresh lemon juice and fresh garlic; they elevate homemade hummus from good to absolutely glorious.
- Adding ice cold water, bit by bit, was the game changer for me in achieving that truly silky smooth texture without making it too thin.
03 -
- For an incredibly deep, mellow flavor, try roasting your garlic clove whole before mincing and adding it to the hummus.
- Don't rush the blending process; let the food processor work for a good 3 to 5 minutes, even after it looks smooth, to achieve the ultimate creamy, airy texture.