A colorful Mediterranean platter featuring smooth hummus, warm pita, and fresh veggie sticks for a wholesome bite.
# Components:
→ Hummus
01 - 1 1/2 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 (15 oz) can, drained and rinsed)
02 - 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
03 - 1/4 cup tahini
04 - 1 small garlic clove, minced
05 - 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, plus additional for serving
06 - 1/2 tsp ground cumin
07 - 2–3 tbsp cold water
08 - 1/2 tsp sea salt
→ Homemade Pita Bread
09 - 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
10 - 2 tsp instant dry yeast
11 - 1 tsp sugar
12 - 3/4 cup warm water
13 - 1 tbsp olive oil
14 - 1/2 tsp salt
→ Veggie Sticks
15 - 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
16 - 1 cucumber, cut into sticks
17 - 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
18 - 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into strips
19 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes
# Preparation steps:
01 - Combine tahini and lemon juice in a food processor and blend for 1 minute until creamy. Add olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, and sea salt; blend for 30 seconds. Incorporate chickpeas and blend for 1 minute, scraping down the sides as needed. Add 2 tablespoons cold water and blend until smooth and fluffy, adding extra water to achieve desired consistency. Adjust seasoning as preferred. Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and optionally garnish with paprika or sesame seeds.
02 - Dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water; let sit 5 minutes until foamy. Add flour, salt, and olive oil, mixing to form a dough. Knead on a floured surface for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour. Preheat oven to 475°F; place a baking stone or tray inside to heat. Punch down dough, divide into 6 equal portions, and roll each into a 1/4-inch thick circle. Bake each on the hot tray for 3 to 4 minutes until puffy and lightly golden. Cover baked pitas with a clean towel to maintain softness.
03 - Wash and cut carrots, cucumber, and bell peppers into sticks or strips. Arrange with cherry tomatoes on a serving platter.
04 - Place hummus in a bowl and surround it with warm pita quarters and vegetable sticks for a complete platter.
