Mediterranean Mezze Tapas Feast
This Mezze Tapas Feast is a vibrant spread inspired by the Mediterranean tradition of sharing small plates. It’s perfect for parties, date nights, or family gatherings. From creamy hummus to crispy falafel, marinated olives to grilled halloumi, every bite offers something different – salty, tangy, crunchy, creamy, and fresh.
Time
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients:
Dips & Spreads
Classic Hummus (chickpeas, tahini, lemon, garlic, olive oil)
Tzatziki (Greek yogurt, cucumber, dill, lemon, garlic)
Muhammara (roasted red pepper & walnut dip, slightly sweet & smoky)
Baba Ganoush (smoky roasted eggplant dip with tahini & lemon)
Breads & Bases
Warm pita bread (cut into triangles)
Grilled flatbread or focaccia
Pita chips
Cheeses & Protein
Grilled halloumi slices
Marinated feta (olive oil, oregano, chili flakes, lemon zest)
Falafel bites (crispy chickpea patties)
Grilled chicken skewers
Small Bites & Sides
Marinated olives (with herbs & orange peel)
Dolmas (stuffed grape leaves with rice & herbs)
Roasted red peppers with garlic & olive oil
Pickled vegetables (turnips, cucumbers, carrots)
Cucumber & tomato salad with parsley & lemon
Garnishes & Extras
Fresh herbs
Pomegranate seeds
Toasted pine nuts or sesame seeds
Extra drizzle of good olive oil
Instructions
1. Classic Hummus
Blend 1 can chickpeas (drained), 3 tbsp tahini, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 clove garlic, 2 tbsp olive oil, pinch salt. Add water until creamy.
2. Tzatziki
Mix 1 cup Greek yogurt, ½ cucumber (grated, squeezed), 1 clove garlic, 1 tbsp olive oil, juice of ½ lemon, 1 tbsp fresh dill, pinch salt.
3. Muhammara
Blend 1 roasted red pepper, ½ cup walnuts, 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses, 1 clove garlic, 1 tbsp breadcrumbs, 2 tbsp olive oil, pinch chili flakes.
4. Grilled Halloumi
Slice halloumi, grill or pan-fry 2–3 mins per side until golden. Serve warm.
5. Marinated Feta
Cube feta, place in a jar with olive oil, oregano, chili flakes, and lemon zest. Marinate at least 30 mins.
Assembly
Use a large board, platter, or several small bowls/plates.
Place dips in small bowls.
Surround with pita, falafel, halloumi, feta, olives, dolmas, roasted veggies.
Scatter fresh herbs, pomegranate seeds, and nuts for a festive look.
Add olive oil drizzles for shine.
Tips
Serve warm bread – it makes everything taste better.
Keep a balance of textures (creamy dips, crunchy veggies, soft cheeses, crispy falafel).
Add a sweet element like dates or figs for contrast.
Many items (hummus, tzatziki, marinated feta, muhammara) can be prepped a day ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely – just skip the chicken skewers and focus on falafel, halloumi, and dolmas.
Q: What drink pairs best?
Mint lemonade, sparkling water with citrus.
Q: How do I keep it simple for a small group?
Choose 2 dips, 1 bread, 1 protein, and 2–3 small sides instead of the full spread.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 550–650 kcal
Protein: 20–25g
Carbs: 55–65g
Fat: 25–30g
Fiber: 8–10g