Thursday, July 25, 2013

Garden Fresh Greek Dip with Homemade Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

I have always wanted to plant a garden. Every Spring since we've lived here (5 years, in case you're wondering), my husband and I have talked about what vegetables we'll put in our non-existent garden. And, while we talk about it, we have never actually put our black green thumbs to work.

Alas, another year has passed and our yard is still garden-less. But, after making this recipe, I am determined to plant one next year! So it is written, so it is done. ;-) {HOLD ME ACCOUNTABLE, PEOPLE!!}



My wonderful friend, Rikki, makes an amazing dish whenever we get together for family nights or play dates. It's simple and incredibly refreshing. Today I want to share it with y'all.

If you have a garden, you will definitely want to put this on your summer recipe list! It's a delicious appetizer that will be a crowd-pleaser at your next summer picnic or cookout. :)


The main ingredient of this dip is hummus. Now, you could take the easy route and simply go buy store bought hummus... But, since I obviously love to make things more difficult, I decided to make my own! I found this simple and satisfying recipe for hummus over at A Cedar Spoon. She's Lebanese, so I figure this gal knows her hummus!

Let's get started!

 
To Make Hummus:
 
First, drain chickpeas and set aside liquid from can to use later.
 
Next, combine all ingredients (except the reserved chickpea liquid) in the food processor, or if you don't have a food processor, use your blender

Blend for 2-3 minutes (blend longer for more creamy texture).
 
Use the chickpea liquid that you reserved to add to the hummus and blend more if you feel you want a creamier texture. I only needed to add a few tablespoons to get to the consistency I desired.
 
Finally, add the roasted red peppers and pulse until the peppers are blended in and the hummus is smooth.
 
If you just want a regular tasting hummus, just skip the last step and omit adding red peppers to your recipe.

 
This hummus is amazing! It's delicious by itself.... But, if you're feeling fancy, and you have a few veggies on hand, you can turn it into a fresh and easy Greek Dip. :)

For the dip....

 
To Make Dip:

Spread homemade hummus in a glass pie plate. (Or, if you're in a hurry, store bought hummus will work just fine!).

Next, top with the diced tomato and cucumber, then sprinkle on the olivers.

Last, and certainly NOT least, cover that baby with your feta cheese! The secret to this step is: MORE IS BETTER!!


Serve this amazing dip with rice crackers, pita chips, or warm pita bread. Either way, it's sure to be a crowd pleaser! :)

Be sure to check out some of our other amazing appetizer recipes for more mouth-watering party ideas!
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
Sharing with these awesome parties:


 
 

ThePinJunkie
 
My Personal Accent: DIY Eclectic Guide to Life

4 You With Love Party Thyme

8 comments:

  1. Thank you so much for the link up! I LOVE this recipe! YUM! I pinned it so I can try it later!

    Angela

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    Replies
    1. Thanks for the invite, Angela. We will be sure to link up often! And, thank you for pinning. Have a great weekend! :)

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  2. Oh I LOVE homemade hummus, especially when it's hot outside! It's a great go to when you don't want to heat up your kitchen...thanks for sharing your recipe! I host a monthly spice themed party with a link party and spice giveaway and I'd love for you to stop by and link up and enter to win some yummy spices! You can link up here

    http://www.4you-withlove.com/2013/07/party-thyme-beat-heat-link-party-and.html

    Thanks again for the inspiration and have a wonderful weekend!

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  3. Heading over now to link up with your party, Marilyn. Thanks for the invite! :)

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  4. I love hummus! I would love for you to share and link up at my weekly TGIF Link Party if you haven't already this week. Your favorite posts, most popular, recent or new! The party is open every Thursday night and closes Wednesday's at midnight. Followed by (Not SO) Wordless Wednesday! http://apeekintomyparadise.blogspot.com/.
    I would be honored if you join us and follow to stay connected Have a wonderful week!
    Hugs, Cathy

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  5. Wow! This is fantastic and I love hummus so this is perfect for me.

    Thanks for sharing!
    xoxo

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