When I first stumbled upon the Mediterranean Platter with Hummus, Olives, and Cheese recipe, I was curious yet skeptical. As someone who has always leaned more towards traditional, hearty meals, I wondered how my family—avid meat lovers and spice enthusiasts—would react to a dish that seemed, at first glance, so simple and fresh. However, one sunny afternoon, I decided to take the plunge and introduce them to the vibrant, colorful world of Mediterranean cuisine. To my surprise, not only was the platter met with open arms, but it quickly became a family favorite. The combination of creamy hummus, tangy olives, and rich cheese proved to be a delightful treat, evoking the warmth and sunshine of the Mediterranean coast right in our dining room.

Ingredients

The beauty of this Mediterranean platter lies in its simplicity and the freshness of its ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this delightful dish:

• Hummus: 1 cup, preferably homemade for that authentic taste.
• Assorted Olives: 1 cup, including Kalamata, green, and black olives for a mix of flavors.
• Cheese: 200 grams of feta cheese, cut into cubes, and a handful of soft goat cheese.
• Flatbread or Pita: 4 pieces, toasted or warmed.
• Fresh Vegetables: 1 cucumber, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; and 1 small red bell pepper, sliced.
• Herbs: A handful of fresh basil and parsley for garnish.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for drizzling.
• Lemon: 1, cut into wedges for squeezing over the platter.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Instructions

With the ingredients ready, assembling the Mediterranean platter is a breeze. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you bring this dish to life:

1. Prepare the Hummus: If you’re making hummus from scratch, blend chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
2. Assemble the Ingredients: On a large serving platter, arrange the hummus in the center. Surround it with cubes of feta cheese and dollops of goat cheese.
3. Add the Olives and Vegetables: Scatter the assorted olives around the cheeses. Add the sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red bell pepper to the platter, arranging them artfully.
4. Garnish with Herbs: Sprinkle fresh basil and parsley over the entire platter, adding a touch of green and a burst of flavor.
5. Finishing Touches: Drizzle olive oil over the platter, season with salt and pepper, and add lemon wedges on the side for squeezing.
6. Serve with Flatbread: Warm the flatbread or pita and cut into wedges, serving them alongside the platter for dipping and scooping.

Nutrition Facts

This Mediterranean platter serves approximately 4 people, making it perfect for a light lunch or as an appetizer for a larger meal. Each serving contains about 450 calories, offering a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates from the fresh vegetables and flatbread.

Preparation Time

One of the most appealing aspects of this dish is its quick and easy preparation. From start to finish, you can have the Mediterranean platter ready in just 20 minutes. This includes the time to prepare the hummus if you’re making it from scratch, as well as the time it takes to slice the vegetables and warm the flatbread.

How to Serve

Serving this Mediterranean platter can be as versatile as its ingredients. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

• As a Starter: Perfect for a dinner party, offering a fresh and flavorful introduction to a Mediterranean-themed meal.
• Brunch Delight: Serve alongside a variety of other small plates for a relaxed, Mediterranean-style brunch.
• Casual Lunch: Pair with a simple green salad for a light and satisfying midday meal.
• Outdoor Picnic: Pack the platter components separately and assemble on-site for a delightful picnic spread.
• Healthy Snack: Enjoy as a nutritious snack option, offering a great balance of flavors and textures.

Additional Tips

To elevate your Mediterranean platter experience, consider these helpful tips:

1. Experiment with Cheeses: Try different types of cheese like halloumi or mozzarella for varied textures and flavors.
2. Mix Olive Varieties: Incorporate a mix of olive types, such as Castelvetrano or Nyon, to add complexity to the dish.
3. Spice it Up: Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or crushed red pepper flakes over the hummus for an extra kick.
4. Homemade Touch: Consider making your own flatbread for an added personal touch and enhanced flavor.
5. Seasonal Vegetables: Swap in seasonal vegetables, such as radishes or asparagus, to keep the platter fresh and exciting.

FAQ Section

Here are some common questions and answers about the Mediterranean platter:

1. Can I prepare the platter in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare most components ahead of time. Keep the hummus, vegetables, and cheese in separate containers, and assemble just before serving.
2. What can I use instead of pita bread?
   You can substitute pita with other types of bread, such as naan, sourdough, or even crispy crackers for a different texture.
3. Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
   The base recipe is not vegan due to the cheese, but you can easily make it vegan by omitting the cheese or using plant-based alternatives.
4. How long does the platter last?
   Once assembled, it’s best to serve the platter immediately. However, leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to two days.
5. What drinks pair well with this platter?
   Light, refreshing beverages such as chilled white wine, sparkling water with lemon, or a Mediterranean-style lemonade complement the dish beautifully.