Vegetable Antipasto Platter with Hummus Recipe

When I first prepared this Vegetable Antipasto Platter with Hummus, I was skeptical about how my family would receive it. As avid meat lovers, the idea of a meal centered around vegetables seemed too simplistic. However, as soon as the platter made its way to the table, the vibrant colors and inviting aromas captured everyone’s attention. The hummus, with its creamy texture and rich flavor, acted as the perfect companion to the array of grilled and fresh vegetables. To my surprise, the dish was not just accepted but celebrated, with everyone reaching for seconds and even thirds. This recipe has since become a staple for family gatherings and casual dinners alike, always leaving guests satisfied and impressed.

Ingredients

Creating a Vegetable Antipasto Platter with Hummus is all about selecting fresh, quality ingredients that will complement each other beautifully. Here is what you’ll need:

• Hummus: 1 cup of homemade or store-bought hummus.
• Bell Peppers: 2 red and 2 yellow, sliced into strips.
• Cherry Tomatoes: 1 pint, halved.
• Carrots: 2 large, peeled and cut into sticks.
• Cucumber: 1 large, sliced into rounds.
• Zucchini: 2 small, sliced and grilled.
• Artichoke Hearts: 1 can, drained and halved.
• Olives: 1 cup of mixed olives.
• Fresh Basil and Parsley: For garnish.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for drizzling.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
• Lemon Wedges: 1 lemon, cut into wedges for squeezing.

Instructions

Preparing the Vegetable Antipasto Platter with Hummus is a straightforward process that requires minimal cooking and delivers maximum flavor. Follow these steps to assemble the platter:

1. Grill the Vegetables: Start by preheating a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly brush the zucchini slices and bell pepper strips with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side until they have nice grill marks and are tender. Set aside to cool.
2. Arrange the Platter: On a large serving platter, begin by placing the hummus in a small bowl in the center. Surround the bowl with grilled vegetables, creating a colorful array.
3. Add Fresh Ingredients: Sprinkle the cherry tomatoes, carrot sticks, cucumber rounds, artichoke hearts, and olives around the grilled vegetables, ensuring a balanced distribution.
4. Garnish: Scatter fresh basil and parsley over the top of the vegetables for a touch of color and freshness.
5. Finishing Touches: Drizzle a little more olive oil over the entire platter, and season with additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their portions.

Nutrition Facts

This Vegetable Antipasto Platter with Hummus serves approximately 6 people, with each serving containing about 250 calories. It’s a nutritious option packed with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats thanks to the variety of vegetables and the inclusion of hummus.

Preparation Time

One of the great benefits of this recipe is its quick preparation time. From start to finish, you can have this beautiful platter ready in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for those days when you need an impressive dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve

Serving the Vegetable Antipasto Platter with Hummus can be as creative as you like. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• As an appetizer for a dinner party, allowing guests to nibble while they mingle.
• As a light lunch or dinner, paired with some crusty bread or pita chips.
• As part of a picnic spread, offering a healthy and easy-to-transport option.
• At a potluck, where it can easily be shared and enjoyed by many.
• As a snack for movie nights, providing a nutritious alternative to traditional snacks.

Additional Tips

Here are five tips to ensure your Vegetable Antipasto Platter with Hummus is a hit every time:

• Choose Seasonal Vegetables: Opt for vegetables that are in season, as they will be fresher and more flavorful.
• Customize Your Hummus: Add a twist to your hummus by mixing in roasted garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a bit of spicy harissa.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil and parsley not only add color but also enhance the flavors of the dish.
• Experiment with Different Olives: Use a variety of olives such as Kalamata, green, and black to add depth and complexity.
• Serve with Pita Bread: Warm pita bread or pita chips can be a great addition to scoop up the hummus and complement the vegetables.

FAQ Section

Below are some frequently asked questions about the Vegetable Antipasto Platter with Hummus:

1. Can I make the platter in advance? Yes, you can prepare the components a day ahead and assemble the platter just before serving. Keep the grilled vegetables and fresh ingredients stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
2. What other vegetables can I use? Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like asparagus, radishes, or even roasted beets, depending on your preferences and availability.
3. Is there a way to make this dish vegan? This dish is already vegan, as long as the hummus you choose does not contain any animal products.
4. How can I make the hummus from scratch? To make hummus from scratch, blend together canned chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and salt in a food processor until smooth.
5. What are some variations for this platter? You can incorporate cheese for a non-vegan version, such as mozzarella balls or feta cubes, or add nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra crunch.