Recipe: Homemade Hummus and Veggie Platter

Introduction

Looking for a healthy snack or a beautiful appetizer for your next gathering? A homemade hummus and veggie platter is the perfect choice.

Creamy, protein-rich hummus pairs wonderfully with fresh, colorful vegetables—and it’s much easier to make than you might think. In this guide, you’ll learn how to whip up silky smooth hummus from scratch and arrange a stunning platter that everyone will love.

🛒 Ingredients

Makes about 2 cups of hummus

For the Hummus:

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
¼ cup tahini
1 small garlic clove, minced
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon salt
2–4 tablespoons cold water

Optional Garnishes:

Paprika or smoked paprika
Chopped parsley
Drizzle of olive oil

For the Veggie Platter:

Mix and match your favorites! Here are some ideas:

Carrot sticks
Celery sticks
Cherry tomatoes
Cucumber slices
Bell pepper strips (red, yellow, orange)
Snap peas
Radishes
Broccoli or cauliflower florets
Pita chips or warm pita bread

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Make the Hummus

Blend Tahini and Lemon Juice:
- In a food processor, combine tahini and lemon juice.
- Process for 1 minute until creamy.
- This extra step helps create extra-smooth hummus.
Add Remaining Ingredients:
- Add chickpeas, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and 2 tablespoons olive oil.
- Process until blended.
Adjust Consistency:
- While the food processor runs, drizzle in cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the hummus reaches your desired texture—creamy and spreadable.
Taste and Season:
- Adjust salt or lemon juice as needed.
Serve:
- Transfer to a serving bowl.
- Drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle with paprika and chopped parsley.

2️⃣ Arrange the Veggie Platter

Choose a Large Board or Platter:
A wooden board or large white platter works well.
Place the Hummus:
Center the bowl of hummus or spread it onto the board as a dip zone.
Arrange Vegetables:
Fan out veggies around the hummus in colorful sections.
Add Pita or Chips:
Fill in empty spaces with pita wedges or chips.
Finish with Garnishes:
Sprinkle a few fresh herbs or nuts for extra texture.

💡 Tips for Success

✅ Peel Chickpeas: For the smoothest hummus, pinch the skins off each chickpea before blending.

✅ Make Ahead: Hummus can be refrigerated for up to 5 days.

✅ Customize: Add roasted red pepper, sun-dried tomato, or extra garlic for flavor variations.

✅ Serve Chilled or Room Temperature: Both are delicious!

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy and nutritious
Quick to prepare
Beautiful presentation
Perfect for parties or everyday snacking

✅ Final Thoughts

A homemade hummus and veggie platter is a simple, wholesome way to wow guests—or treat yourself to something fresh and delicious. Once you try making hummus from scratch, you’ll never go back to store-bought!