Mediterranean Mezze Tapas Platter
The Mediterranean Mezze Tapas Platter is a colorful, flavor-packed spread of small bites from across the Mediterranean region. Combining Greek, Lebanese, Turkish, and Spanish influences, it features creamy dips, fresh vegetables, cheeses, grilled proteins, marinated olives, and warm bread. It’s a perfect choice for entertaining, offering variety for every taste — from crunchy to creamy, tangy to smoky.
Time Overview
Prep Time: 25–35 minutes
Cook Time: 10–15 minutes
Total Time: 40–50 minutes
Serves: 4–6
Ingredients
Dips & Spreads
Hummus 1 cup
Baba Ghanoush 1 cup
Tzatziki – 1 cup (Greek yogurt with cucumber, garlic, dill)
Muhammara – 1 cup
Cheeses
Feta cheese 150 g
Halloumi cheese 200 g
Fresh Vegetables
Cherry tomatoes 1 cup
Cucumber 1 large, sliced into sticks or rounds
Bell pepper 1 large, sliced
Radishes 6, halved
Celery sticks 1 cup
Marinated olives (green or kalamata) 1 cup
Artichoke hearts (marinated in olive oil) 1 cup
Grilled Chicken Skewers:
Chicken breast 250 g, cubed
Olive oil 1 tbsp
Lemon juice 1 tbsp
Dried oregano ½ tsp
Salt & pepper to taste
Falafel balls 8–10 pieces
Breads & Crackers
Warm pita bread – 4 rounds, cut into wedges
Crisp flatbread or lavash – 150 g
Rustic bread slices 6–8 pieces
Extras & Garnishes
Dolmas (stuffed grape leaves) 8 pieces
Roasted almonds or pistachios ½ cup
Sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil ½ cup
Fresh herbs (parsley, mint, dill) handful, chopped
Lemon wedges 1–2 lemons, quartered
Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the warm items
Chicken skewers: Toss chicken cubes with olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Thread onto skewers and grill or pan-fry 3–4 minutes per side until cooked.
Halloumi: Slice into 1 cm-thick pieces and grill or fry for 1–2 minutes per side until golden.
Warm pita bread in a dry skillet or oven for 2–3 minutes.
Step 2 – Arrange dips
Place each dip (hummus, baba ghanoush, tzatziki, muhammara) into small bowls and spread slightly with the back of a spoon.
Drizzle olive oil on top of hummus and baba ghanoush, and sprinkle paprika or za’atar for garnish.
Step 3 – Assemble cheeses & proteins
Arrange grilled halloumi slices in a cluster.
Place cubes of feta nearby, drizzling with olive oil and oregano.
Add chicken skewers and falafel balls in separate areas.
Step 4 – Add vegetables & extras
Arrange fresh vegetable slices in small clusters around dips.
Add bowls or piles of olives, artichoke hearts, and dolmas.
Step 5 – Finish with breads & garnishes
Place pita wedges, flatbread, and bread slices along the edges.
Fill small gaps with nuts and sun-dried tomatoes.
Garnish the platter with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
Notes & Tips
Balance of flavors: Aim for a mix of creamy, crunchy, tangy, salty, and fresh.
Color contrast: Use brightly colored vegetables for visual appeal.
Make ahead: Prepare dips up to 2 days in advance. Grill proteins fresh before serving.
Serving style: Keep small tongs or spoons near each section to avoid flavor mixing.
Diet-friendly: Swap chicken for grilled shrimp for pescatarian, or add more falafel for vegetarian.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this platter vegetarian?
Yes. Replace chicken skewers with extra falafel, grilled mushrooms, or roasted vegetables.
Q2: How do I keep pita bread soft?
Wrap in a clean kitchen towel after warming to keep it moist until serving.
Q3: What drinks go well with a mezze platter?
Mint lemonade, iced tea, sangria, or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
Q4: Can I prepare everything the night before?
Dips, vegetables, and marinated items can be prepped the night before, but proteins and bread are best made fresh.
Nutritional Value
Calories: 430 kcal
Protein: 17 g
Fat: 24 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fiber: 7 g
Sodium: 620 mg