This Greek Layer Dip with Hummus and Tzatziki is a Mediterranean-inspired appetizer that brings vibrant colors and fresh, bold flavors to your table. Creamy hummus and tangy tzatziki form the base for a cascade of toppings including marinated garbanzo beans, crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, crumbled feta, and aromatic herbs. Toasted pine nuts and a drizzle of olive oil finish the dish, making it ideal for summer gatherings, mezze platters, or healthy snacking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dip is a refreshing alternative to heavier party starters. It’s naturally vegetarian and packed with plant-based protein, healthy fats, and fresh produce. Each layer offers its own texture and flavor—from creamy, cool, and crunchy to tangy, nutty, and herbaceous. It’s easy to assemble, requires minimal cooking, and makes an impressive centerpiece for any casual get-together or elegant event.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 32 oz container hummus
- 8 oz container tzatziki
- 1 (15 oz) can garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup finely diced Bermuda (red) onion
- 1 European cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 3 tbsp tahini
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small handful pine nuts
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped Italian parsley
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint
- 1 tsp Aleppo pepper (or red pepper flakes)
- 1 tsp Za’atar spice blend
- Salt and pepper to taste
directions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the garbanzo beans with tahini, lemon juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. Lightly mash some of the beans for a rustic texture. Set aside.
- On a large serving platter or in a shallow bowl, spread the hummus into a thick, even layer.
- Spoon the tzatziki over the center of the hummus, swirling or spreading gently to create a visible layer.
- Scatter the marinated garbanzo beans evenly across the top.
- Layer on the sliced cucumbers, diced red onion, and halved tomatoes.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the vegetables.
- Garnish with chopped parsley, mint, Aleppo pepper, and Za’atar spice.
- Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant. Sprinkle over the top of the dip.
- Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil across the entire dish before serving.
- Serve with warm flatbread, pita chips, or fresh-cut vegetables.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 8 servings
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 5 minutes (toasting pine nuts)
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 290 kcal per serving
Variations
- Vegan Version: Use dairy-free hummus and a vegan tzatziki made with coconut or cashew yogurt.
- Spicy Twist: Add a chopped jalapeño or drizzle of harissa for a kick of heat.
- Creamy Addition: Add a dollop of whipped feta or labneh for extra richness.
- Crunch Boost: Add finely chopped bell peppers or radishes for an additional crisp texture.
- Grain Base: Serve the dip layered over cooked quinoa or bulgur for a hearty mezze salad.
storage/reheating
This dip is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container. Note that the toppings may release moisture over time, slightly altering the texture. Reheating is not recommended. If making ahead, layer the hummus and tzatziki, then add fresh toppings just before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, but for best texture and appearance, add the fresh toppings just before serving.
What kind of hummus works best?
Classic hummus is ideal, but flavored options like roasted garlic or lemon hummus can also enhance the dip.
Can I use homemade tzatziki?
Absolutely. Homemade tzatziki often has a fresher taste and can be tailored to your preference.
Is this dip gluten-free?
The dip itself is gluten-free. Just ensure you use gluten-free dippers like veggies or gluten-free pita chips.
Can I omit the pine nuts?
Yes, you can skip them or substitute with sunflower seeds or chopped pistachios for a similar crunch.
What other vegetables could I add?
Chopped bell peppers, olives, or artichoke hearts make great additions.
How do I serve this dip at a party?
Serve it on a large platter or in individual cups for easy, mess-free servings.
Can I use canned chickpeas without mashing?
Yes, mashing is optional. Leaving them whole adds a nice bite.
Is Za’atar essential?
It’s optional, but it adds a wonderful earthy, herby flavor that complements the dip beautifully.
Can I double this recipe for a large group?
Yes, it scales well. Use a large serving tray and adjust ingredients proportionally.
Conclusion
Greek Layer Dip with Hummus and Tzatziki is a colorful, fresh, and nourishing dish that brings together the best of Mediterranean flavors in one vibrant bowl. Ideal for entertaining, picnics, or healthy snacking, it’s both impressive and easy to prepare. With layers of flavor, texture, and visual appeal, this dip is sure to be a standout at your next gathering.
PrintGreek Layer Dip with Hummus and Tzatziki
This Greek Layer Dip with Hummus and Tzatziki is a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired appetizer featuring creamy hummus, tangy tzatziki, marinated garbanzo beans, crunchy veggies, feta, and toasted pine nuts. A fresh and healthy dip perfect for mezze platters, summer entertaining, or any gathering!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Assembled
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
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32 oz container hummus
-
8 oz container tzatziki
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1 (15 oz) can garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained
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1/2 cup finely diced Bermuda (red) onion
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1 European cucumber, thinly sliced
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1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
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3 tbsp tahini
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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4 tbsp olive oil
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1 small handful pine nuts
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1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
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1/4 cup chopped Italian parsley
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2 tbsp chopped fresh mint
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1 tsp Aleppo pepper (or red pepper flakes)
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1 tsp Za’atar spice blend
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
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In a bowl, mix garbanzo beans with tahini, lemon juice, 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Lightly mash some for texture. Set aside.
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On a serving platter or shallow bowl, spread a thick, even layer of hummus.
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Spoon tzatziki over the center and gently swirl it into the hummus.
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Top with the marinated garbanzo beans, then layer on cucumbers, diced red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes.
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Sprinkle crumbled feta evenly over the veggies.
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Garnish with parsley, mint, Aleppo pepper, and Za’atar.
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Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet until golden and scatter over the top.
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Finish with a drizzle of the remaining 2 tbsp olive oil.
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Serve with pita chips or warm flatbread.
Notes
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This dip is gluten-free if served with gluten-free crackers or veggies.
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Make ahead and refrigerate, then add fresh herbs and pine nuts just before serving.
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Customize with olives, roasted peppers, or artichokes for added flair.