Discover a variety of delicious and creative appetizer ideas that perfectly complement hummus, enhancing your snacking experience like never before.
Hummus has become a staple in many households as a healthy and delicious snack or appetizer. It’s creamy, savory, and packed with protein and fiber.
But if you’re tired of serving hummus with the same old pita chips, it’s time to mix things up! In this article, we’ll explore some creative ideas for what to serve with hummus that will take your appetizer game to the next level. From fresh veggies to unique crackers and even sweet options, we’ve got you covered.
So let’s dive in and discover some exciting new ways to enjoy everyone’s favorite dip!
Vegetable Crudité Platter
A vegetable crudité platter is a classic and healthy option to serve with hummus. It’s easy to prepare, colorful, and offers a variety of textures and flavors that complement the dip perfectly.
You can choose any vegetables you like or have on hand such as carrots, celery sticks, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers (red/yellow/green), broccoli florets or cauliflower. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for easy dipping.
To add some extra flair to your veggie platter try adding some unexpected items like jicama slices or watermelon radishes for an added crunch factor! Don’t forget about the dips too – ranch dressing pairs well with veggies if you want something creamy while balsamic vinaigrette adds tanginess.
Pita Bread and Chips
The soft, chewy texture of pita bread is the perfect vessel for scooping up creamy hummus. And if you’re looking for something a bit crunchier, pita chips offer that satisfying crunch without being too heavy or greasy.
To make your own pita chips at home, simply cut fresh pitas into wedges or triangles and brush them lightly with olive oil before baking in the oven until crispy. You can also experiment with different seasonings like garlic powder or za’atar to add extra flavor.
If you’re short on time or don’t feel like making your own chips from scratch, there are plenty of store-bought options available as well. Look for brands that use simple ingredients and avoid added preservatives whenever possible.
Grilled Flatbreads
Not only do they add a unique texture to the dish, but they also provide a delicious base for all sorts of toppings. To make grilled flatbreads, simply brush them with olive oil and grill them until slightly charred on both sides.
You can then top them with anything from roasted vegetables to crumbled feta cheese or even sliced meats like prosciutto or salami.
One great idea is to serve grilled flatbreads alongside some homemade tzatziki sauce and fresh herbs like mint and parsley. This creates a Mediterranean-inspired platter that’s perfect for sharing at parties or gatherings.
Another fun way to enjoy grilled flatbreads is by cutting them into smaller pieces and using them as dippers for your hummus! This adds an extra layer of flavor and crunch that will take your snacking experience up another notch.
Stuffed Grape Leaves
These little bundles of flavor are made by wrapping seasoned rice and herbs in tender grape leaves and then steaming or baking them until they’re tender. The result is a deliciously tangy and savory bite-sized snack that’s perfect for dipping into creamy hummus.
To make stuffed grape leaves at home, start by rinsing the brined or fresh grape leaves under cold water to remove any excess saltiness. Then mix together cooked rice with chopped herbs like parsley, dill, mint along with some lemon juice for added zing.
Next comes the fun part – rolling up your filling in each leaf! Place about 1 tablespoon of filling on each leaf (depending on size), fold over both sides towards the center then roll tightly from bottom to top forming small cigar-shaped rolls.
Once you’ve rolled all your dolmades place them seam-side down in a pot filled halfway up with water mixed with olive oil & lemon juice (or chicken broth) before covering it tightly and simmering gently until fully cooked through – usually around 30-40 minutes depending on how many you have made!
Falafel Bites
These crispy balls of chickpeas, herbs, and spices are packed with flavor and protein. You can serve them as a standalone appetizer or pair them with your favorite dipping sauce to add some extra zing.
To make falafel bites at home, you’ll need chickpeas (either canned or cooked from scratch), fresh parsley and cilantro leaves, garlic cloves, onion powder cumin seeds ground coriander salt baking powder flour vegetable oil for frying.
Start by blending the chickpeas in a food processor until they form a coarse paste. Add the rest of the ingredients except for flour into the mixture until everything is well combined but still has texture.
Form small balls using your hands then roll each ball in flour before deep-frying it until golden brown on all sides. Serve hot alongside hummus dip garnished with chopped parsley leaves if desired.
Roasted Red Peppers
They add a smoky, sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy dip. Roasting red peppers is easy and can be done in several ways – on the grill, under the broiler or over an open flame until charred all over.
Once roasted, let them cool before peeling off their skin and removing seeds.
You can serve roasted red peppers as they are or slice them into strips for easier dipping. Alternatively, you could chop them up finely and mix into your hummus for added texture and flavor.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try marinating your roasted red peppers in olive oil with some garlic cloves or herbs like thyme or rosemary before serving alongside your hummus platter.
Cheese and Charcuterie Board
It’s also an excellent option for those who prefer a low-carb or keto-friendly snack. A well-curated board should include a variety of cheeses, cured meats, nuts, fruits, and crackers or bread.
When selecting cheeses for your board, aim to have at least three different types: soft (like brie), semi-soft (like gouda), and hard (like cheddar). Add some sliced salami or prosciutto to the mix for some savory flavor.
To balance out the richness of the cheese and meat selections on your board, add fresh fruit like grapes or figs. Nuts such as almonds or walnuts can provide additional texture while adding another layer of flavor.
Don’t forget about presentation! Arrange everything in an aesthetically pleasing way on a wooden cutting board or platter.
Marinated Olives
They add a salty and tangy flavor that complements the creamy texture of hummus. Marinated olives come in different varieties, such as Kalamata, green, or mixed with herbs like rosemary and thyme.
You can easily make marinated olives at home by combining them with olive oil, garlic cloves, lemon zest or juice for added freshness. You can also add some red pepper flakes to give it a little kick.
Deviled Eggs
These bite-sized treats are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. To prepare deviled eggs, start by hard-boiling your eggs and then slicing them in half lengthwise.
Remove the yolks and mix them with mayonnaise, mustard, salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like (some people add paprika or hot sauce for an extra kick). Spoon the yolk mixture back into the egg whites and garnish with fresh herbs or chopped bacon if desired.
Deviled eggs can be served cold or at room temperature making them perfect for parties or gatherings where you want to have food ready ahead of time. They’re also great because they’re so versatile – you can customize the filling to suit your taste preferences!
Caprese Skewers
These simple yet elegant skewers feature fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves drizzled with balsamic glaze. They’re easy to assemble and can be made ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.
To make caprese skewers, start by threading a small ball of fresh mozzarella onto a toothpick or small wooden skewer followed by a cherry tomato and then another piece of mozzarella. Top it off with a fresh basil leaf before drizzling the entire thing with balsamic glaze.
Not only do these caprese skewers look beautiful on any party platter, but they also taste amazing when paired with hummus! The creamy texture of the cheese complements the smoothness of the dip while the burst-in-your-mouth tomatoes add an extra layer of flavor to every bite.
Mini Quinoa Salad Cups
These bite-sized cups are not only delicious but also healthy and easy to make. You can fill them up with your favorite quinoa salad recipe, such as roasted vegetables or Greek-style salad, for a colorful and flavorful addition to your snack table.
To make the mini quinoa cups, cook the quinoa according to package instructions and mix it with chopped veggies like cucumber, tomato or bell pepper. Add some crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor if desired.
Then spoon the mixture into pre-baked phyllo dough cups (which you can find in most grocery stores) and bake them in the oven until crispy.
Crackers and Pretzels
They’re easy to find, affordable, and come in a variety of flavors that can complement the dip’s taste. You can choose from plain or flavored crackers like rosemary or garlic, depending on your preference.
Pretzels also make an excellent choice as they add a bit of saltiness to the mix.
If you want to take things up a notch, try experimenting with different types of crackers such as rice cakes or sesame snaps. These alternatives offer unique textures that will give your guests something new to experience.
Bruschetta
It’s simple to make and bursting with flavor, making it an excellent addition to any party or gathering. To prepare bruschetta, start by slicing a baguette into thin rounds and brushing them lightly with olive oil.
Toast the bread in the oven until golden brown, then top each slice with diced tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, minced garlic and drizzle of balsamic vinegar for added tanginess.
The combination of juicy tomatoes and fragrant herbs on crispy bread creates a delicious contrast in texture that will leave your guests wanting more! Bruschetta can be served as is or paired alongside hummus for an even more satisfying snack experience.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different toppings such as roasted red peppers or creamy goat cheese to add some variety to your bruschetta platter.
Avocado and Hummus Toast
The creamy texture of the avocado pairs perfectly with the smoothness of hummus, creating a delicious and satisfying snack or light meal. To make this simple yet tasty appetizer, start by toasting your favorite bread until it’s crispy on the outside but still soft on the inside.
Then spread a generous layer of hummus over each slice before adding slices of ripe avocado on top. Sprinkle some salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for an extra kick if desired.
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that will keep you feeling full and energized throughout your day! Avocados are rich in healthy fats that can help lower cholesterol levels while providing essential vitamins like vitamin C, E & K as well as potassium which helps regulate blood pressure levels.
Cucumber Bites
Simply slice cucumbers into rounds and top them with a dollop of hummus. You can also add some extra flavor by sprinkling on some chopped herbs or spices like dill, paprika, or cumin.
For an even more filling snack, try topping your cucumber bites with sliced cherry tomatoes or crumbled feta cheese.
These little bites are not only delicious but also incredibly healthy! Cucumbers are low in calories but high in nutrients like vitamin K and potassium. They’re also hydrating thanks to their high water content.
Pretzel Dippers
Pretzel dippers are thin, crispy pretzels that make an excellent alternative to traditional pita chips. They come in various shapes and sizes, from twists to sticks or even mini-bites.
You can find them at most grocery stores or specialty food shops. For a fun twist on this classic snack pairing, try serving different types of pretzels alongside your hummus dip.
Mix things up by including soft baked pretzels or flavored varieties like honey mustard or garlic parmesan. The saltiness of the pretzel perfectly complements the creamy texture of hummus while adding an extra layer of flavor and crunchiness that will leave everyone wanting more!
Artichoke & Spinach Pinwheels
These pinwheels are made by spreading a mixture of cream cheese, spinach, artichokes, and Parmesan cheese onto puff pastry sheets. The pastry is then rolled up into a log shape and sliced into bite-sized pieces before baking in the oven until golden brown.
The result is an irresistible combination of creamy filling wrapped in flaky pastry that will have your guests coming back for more. Artichoke & Spinach Pinwheels can be served warm or at room temperature alongside your favorite hummus dip.
These pinwheels also make great party food because they can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving. They’re perfect for any occasion from game day to holiday gatherings or even as an afternoon snack.
Pickled Vegetables
They add a pop of color, texture, and acidity that perfectly complements the creamy dip. You can pickle almost any vegetable you like, from carrots to cauliflower to radishes.
Pickling is also an excellent way to preserve vegetables for longer periods while retaining their nutritional value.
To make pickled veggies at home, start by slicing your chosen veggies thinly or cutting them into bite-sized pieces. Then prepare the brine by combining vinegar (white or apple cider), water, sugar (optional), salt and spices in a saucepan over medium heat until it comes to boil.
Next pack your sliced veggies tightly into jars with some garlic cloves or fresh herbs if desired then pour hot brine over them making sure they’re fully submerged in liquid before sealing tightly with lids.
Antipasto Skewers
These colorful and flavorful skewers are easy to make and look impressive on the table. Simply thread your favorite antipasto ingredients onto wooden or metal skewers, alternating between meats, cheeses, olives, peppers, artichokes and cherry tomatoes for a delicious combination of flavors.
The beauty of antipasto is that it’s entirely customizable based on your preferences. You can add prosciutto or salami for some extra protein or opt for vegetarian options like marinated mushrooms or grilled zucchini slices.
To assemble the skewers easily at home without making them too heavy with one ingredient over another; start by selecting items that will fit well together in size so they don’t slide around when you pick up the stick. Then alternate each item as you go along until all ingredients have been used up.
Veggie Spring Rolls
These light and crispy rolls are filled with fresh vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, and lettuce. They’re also incredibly easy to make at home! Simply soak the rice paper wrappers in warm water for a few seconds until they become pliable, then fill them up with your favorite veggies.
You can even add some cooked shrimp or tofu for extra protein if you’d like.
To serve these spring rolls alongside hummus as an appetizer is a great way to offer guests something light yet satisfying before the main course arrives. The combination of creamy hummus dip paired with crunchy veggie spring rolls creates an explosion of flavors in your mouth that will leave everyone wanting more.
If you want to take things up a notch, try making homemade peanut sauce or sweet chili dipping sauce on the side for added flavor options! Veggie Spring Rolls are not only delicious but also visually appealing – their vibrant colors make them look almost too pretty to eat! So next time you’re looking for something healthy yet tasty as an appetizer option alongside your favorite dip such as Hummus; give these Veggie Spring Rolls recipe ideas try- it’s sure going be hit among all age groups alike!
FAQ
What healthy snacks to eat with hummus?
Healthy snacks to eat with hummus include carrot sticks, celery sticks, snap peas, cucumber slices, bell pepper slices, radishes, raw broccoli florets, cauliflower florets, and cherry tomatoes.
How to serve hummus fancy?
To serve hummus fancy, swirl the top with the back of a spoon in a serving bowl, drizzle olive oil, sprinkle with dukkah or za’atar, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or any fresh herb.
What to put on hummus and crackers?
Put hummus, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese on crackers for a great snack.
What chips to eat with hummus?
Pita chips are the ideal choice to eat with hummus because they offer a savory flavor and the perfect crunch.
What are some gluten-free options for pairing with hummus?
Some gluten-free options for pairing with hummus include vegetable sticks, such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers, and gluten-free crackers or rice cakes.
What are some creative ways to incorporate hummus into tapas or small plates?
Some creative ways to incorporate hummus into tapas or small plates include topping it on crostini, using it as a dip for grilled vegetables, mixing it with spiced meats, and serving it alongside mini pita sandwiches.
How can hummus be incorporated into different cultural cuisines as an appetizer?
Hummus can be incorporated into different cultural cuisines as an appetizer by adapting the flavors and ingredients to match the tastes and profiles of each cuisine, such as adding regional spices, herbs, or mixing with local ingredients.
