Loaded Hummus Recipe
Description
Loaded hummus is a fresh, colorful twist on classic hummus. Creamy, garlicky chickpea dip is spread thick and topped with vibrant Mediterranean-inspired toppings like olives, cucumber, tomatoes, herbs, feta, and a drizzle of olive oil. It’s perfect for parties, snacking, or a light meal, served with pita, veggies, or crackers.
Ingredients
For the Hummus:
1 (15 oz) can chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
3 tbsp tahini
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (plus more for topping)
1 small clove garlic, minced
½ tsp ground cumin
3–4 tbsp cold water
Salt to taste
For the Toppings:
½ cup cherry tomatoes, diced
½ cup cucumber, diced
¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tbsp red onion, finely diced
2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
1–2 tbsp pine nuts or toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Paprika or sumac for garnish
Extra olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
Make the Hummus:
In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, and salt.
Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
Add 3–4 tablespoons cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the hummus is creamy and fluffy.
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, lemon, or garlic if needed.
Assemble the Loaded Hummus:
Spread the hummus onto a large plate or shallow bowl in a thick, even layer.
Scatter the tomatoes, cucumber, olives, feta, and red onion over the top.
Sprinkle with fresh herbs and optional pine nuts.
Drizzle generously with olive oil and dust lightly with paprika or sumac.
Serve:
Serve immediately with warm pita bread, pita chips, vegetable sticks, or as part of a mezze platter.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving — assuming 6 servings)
(Note: may vary slightly based on toppings used)
Nutrient Amount
Calories ~220 kcal
Protein ~7 g
Carbohydrates ~18 g
Fat ~14 g
Fiber ~5 g
Sugar ~2 g
Sodium ~350 mg
Time Breakdown
Step Time
Preparation 15 minutes
Assembly 5 minutes
Total 20 minutes
FAQs about Loaded Hummus
Q: Can I make the hummus ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make the hummus up to 4–5 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Add the toppings just before serving.
Q: What other toppings can I use?
A: Roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, cooked chickpeas, roasted garlic, or even diced avocado are great alternatives or additions.
Q: Is this recipe vegan?
A: It can be! Just omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based feta alternative.
Q: How can I make it even creamier?
A: Try peeling the chickpeas before blending or using a high-speed blender instead of a food
processor.
Q: Can I use store-bought hummus?
A: Definitely! If you’re short on time, just