Save to Pinterest A fresh, wallet-friendly Mediterranean snack platter featuring creamy homemade hummus, warm fluffy pitas, and crisp veggie sticks—healthier and cheaper than store-bought!
I first made this for a family movie night and it quickly became our go-to platter for parties and picnics. Nothing compares to the taste of homemade hummus and warm, freshly-baked pita bread right from the oven.
Ingredients
- Cooked chickpeas: 1 1/2 cups (250 g) or 1 can, drained and rinsed
- Fresh lemon juice: 1/4 cup (60 ml) (about 1 large lemon)
- Tahini: 1/4 cup (60 g)
- Garlic clove: 1 small, minced
- Extra-virgin olive oil: 2 tbsp (30 ml) plus more for serving
- Ground cumin: 1/2 tsp
- Cold water: 2–3 tbsp (30–45 ml)
- Sea salt: 1/2 tsp
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups (250 g), plus extra for dusting
- Instant dry yeast: 2 tsp
- Sugar: 1 tsp
- Warm water: 3/4 cup (180 ml)
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Carrots: 2 large, peeled and cut into sticks
- Cucumber: 1, cut into sticks
- Red bell pepper: 1, cut into strips
- Yellow bell pepper: 1, cut into strips
- Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup (100 g)
Instructions
- Prepare the Hummus:
- In a food processor, combine tahini and lemon juice. Process for 1 minute until creamy. Add olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, and salt. Process for 30 seconds. Add chickpeas and process for 1 minute. Scrape down sides, add 2 tbsp cold water, and process until smooth and fluffy. Add more water if needed for consistency. Taste and adjust salt or lemon as needed. Transfer to a bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and optionally sprinkle with paprika or sesame seeds.
- Make the Pita Bread:
- In a bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let sit 5 minutes until frothy. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour. Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a baking stone or tray inside to heat. Punch down dough, divide into 6 balls, and roll each into a 1/4-inch (0.5 cm) thick circle. Place on hot baking tray and bake 3–4 minutes until puffy and just golden. Cover baked pitas with a clean towel to keep soft.
- Prepare Veggie Sticks:
- Wash and cut vegetables into sticks or strips. Arrange on a platter.
- Serve:
- Arrange hummus in a bowl, surround with warm pita bread (cut into wedges) and veggie sticks.
Save to Pinterest My kids love to help knead the pita dough while we chat about our day, and it always brings everyone together around the kitchen table. Sharing a platter like this sparks conversation and connection.
Required Tools
Food processor or blender, mixing bowls, rolling pin, baking tray or pizza stone, sharp knife, kitchen towel
Allergen Information
Contains gluten (pita) and sesame (tahini). May contain traces of soy if using canned chickpeas. Check tahini for possible nut cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 260, Total Fat: 8 g, Carbohydrates: 39 g, Protein: 9 g (per serving)
Save to Pinterest Homemade hummus and pita is a fun project and rewarding to serve. Savor every dip and crunchy bite when you make your own Mediterranean spread!
Common Recipe Questions
- → How can I make the hummus extra creamy?
Peeling the chickpeas before blending results in a smoother, creamier hummus texture.
- → What’s the best way to keep pita bread soft after baking?
Cover the baked pita bread with a clean kitchen towel right after baking to retain moisture and softness.
- → Can I use whole wheat flour for pita bread?
Yes, substituting whole wheat flour adds a nuttier flavor and makes the pita healthier.
- → Which vegetables work well for the veggie sticks?
Carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes provide a crunchy, colorful variety that pairs nicely.
- → How should I store leftover hummus and pita?
Keep hummus in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 3 days. Store pita wrapped in foil or an airtight bag to maintain freshness.
- → What flavor variations can enhance the hummus?
Adding smoked paprika, roasted garlic, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds can introduce interesting flavor twists.