Mediterranean Hummus Appetizer

Prep Time: 25 Minutes

Cook Time: 0 Minutes

Ready In: 25 Minutes

Servings: 6

Inspired by Zea's Hummus Appetizer Platter. Refrigerate time not included. (So good I strongly suggest doubling the hummus recipe since you'll already have on hand the toppings.) Note: I made a remarkable discovery. Adding lemon zest makes for extraordinary so I added it as an optional ingredient. Update: Substituting about half of the olive oil with chickpea juice makes for a fluffier hummus. Note: Since originally posting this recipe, I've come to realize that boiling your chickpeas for about 10 minutes makes for a better end product. Make sure you reserve the juice should you want a thinner hummus.

Ingredients:

1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, drained (simmered for about 10 minutes if desired)

2 -4 garlic cloves, minced

1/4-1/2 cup olive oil (can sub part with juice from chickpeas)

3 tablespoons tahini (sesame paste)

2 tablespoons plain yogurt (optional) or 2 tablespoons sour cream (optional)

3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1/2-1 teaspoon shredded lemon zest (optional and if adding cut back on the lemon juice)

1 teaspoon cumin

1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

roma tomato, coarsely chopped

kalamata olive

sun-dried tomato, in olive oil (you can also drizzle oil over dip)

roasted garlic cloves

feta cheese, crumbled

fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped

green onion top, thin sliced

fresh basil, minced

light drizzle extra virgin olive oil or oil from sun-dried tomato

paprika or sumac

pita bread, warmed and cut into triangles

Directions:

1. Place all hummus ingredients into a blender or food processor; blend until smooth. Add some reserved broth should you desire a thinner hummus.
2. Refrigerate for about 1 – 3 hours for flavors to blend.
3. Transfer mixture to a serving plate and spread hummus out evenly into a circle. Garnish with the above toppings according to your taste in the order listed. Sprinkle over all with paprika or sumac.
4. Serve with warmed pita triangles.

By RecipeOfHealth.com