Mediterranean Mezze Platter with Hummus, Olives & Burrata
A Mediterranean mezze platter is less a recipe and more a joyful spread. It is designed for sharing, grazing, and lingering at the table. This version centers on silky hummus, briny olives, and creamy burrata, supported by fresh vegetables, warm bread, and a few simple accents. It works as an appetizer, a light meal, or a stunning addition to a dinner party. The beauty of mezze is balance: creamy against crisp, salty against fresh, rich against bright. With good ingredients and thoughtful arrangement, it looks impressive while staying easy to prepare.
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 to 6 as an appetizer, 2 to 3 as a light meal
Ingredients
For the hummus:
1 can (400 g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup tahini
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 small garlic clove, minced
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt to taste
Cold water, as needed for texture
For the platter:
1 to 2 balls fresh burrata
1 cup mixed olives (Kalamata, green, and Castelvetrano work well)
1 English cucumber, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 small bowl marinated artichoke hearts
Warm pita bread or flatbread, cut into wedges
Optional garnishes:
Smoked paprika or sumac
Fresh parsley or basil
Chili flakes
Instructions
Make the hummus base. Add chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and salt to a food processor. Blend until thick and grainy.
Smooth it out. With the motor running, drizzle in olive oil. Add cold water one tablespoon at a time until the hummus becomes smooth and creamy.
Taste and adjust. Check seasoning and add more salt or lemon juice if needed. Blend again briefly.
Prepare the olives. Drain if necessary and lightly toss with a splash of olive oil and a pinch of herbs or chili flakes if desired.
Slice the vegetables. Cut cucumber, tomatoes, and bell pepper into bite sized pieces for easy dipping.
Warm the bread. Heat pita or flatbread in the oven or a dry pan until soft and slightly toasted.
Arrange the hummus. Spoon hummus onto a shallow bowl or plate. Use the back of a spoon to create swirls.
Finish the hummus. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with paprika or sumac.
Add the burrata. Place whole burrata balls on the platter. Tear slightly just before serving so the creamy center spills out.
Build the platter. Arrange olives, vegetables, artichokes, and bread around the hummus and burrata. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.
Tips
Peel chickpeas for extra smooth hummus if you have time.
Use ice cold water when blending to improve creaminess.
Taste tahini before using; bitterness can affect the hummus.
Let hummus rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.
Serve burrata at room temperature for best texture.
Mix different olive varieties for depth of flavor.
Cut vegetables just before serving to keep them crisp.
Warm bread gently; overheating dries it out.
Use high quality olive oil since it is a dominant flavor.
Leave space on the platter so items do not look crowded.
Variations
Add roasted red peppers to the hummus for sweetness.
Swap classic hummus for beet or avocado hummus.
Include grilled halloumi for a heartier platter.
Add dolmas or stuffed grape leaves.
Use whipped feta instead of or alongside hummus.
Include seasonal fruit like figs or grapes.
Add spiced nuts for crunch.
Use gluten free crackers instead of pita.
Drizzle burrata with honey and chili for contrast.
Add a small bowl of olive oil with herbs for dipping bread.
Q&A
Can I make this ahead? Yes, prepare hummus and vegetables a day ahead. Assemble just before serving.
How long does hummus last? Stored airtight, it keeps for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Can I use store bought hummus? You can, but homemade offers better texture and flavor.
What can replace burrata? Fresh mozzarella or labneh work well.
Is this platter vegan? It is vegan without the burrata.
How do I keep hummus from drying? Cover tightly and add a thin olive oil layer.
What drinks pair well? Sparkling water, white wine, or mint lemonade.
Can I scale this up? Yes, simply double ingredients and use a larger platter.
What if I dislike olives? Replace with roasted vegetables or pickled carrots.
Is this kid friendly? Yes, keep spices mild and offer familiar veggies.
Nutrition
(Approximate per Serving)
Calories: 380
Protein: 12 g
Fat: 24 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fiber: 8 g
Conclusion
This Mediterranean mezze platter is about simplicity done well. It invites people to slow down, share, and enjoy a range of flavors without heavy cooking. With creamy hummus, luxurious burrata, and vibrant accompaniments, it fits casual gatherings and special occasions alike. Once you master the base, you can adapt it endlessly to suit seasons, tastes, and moods, making it a reliable go to for effortless entertaining.