What to Serve with Hummus: Delicious Pairings and Serving Ideas

Hummus, a creamy and flavorful dip originating from the Middle East, has captured hearts and palates worldwide. Known for its rich, nutty taste and smooth texture, this versatile spread made primarily from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. If you’re wondering Hummus What To Serve With, you’ve come to the right place. From classic pairings to more adventurous culinary combinations, let’s explore a variety of delectable options that will elevate your hummus experience.

1. Vibrant Vegetables: A Healthy and Crunchy Start

Vegetables and hummus are a match made in healthy snack heaven. The crispness and freshness of veggies provide a wonderful textural contrast to the creamy dip, while their natural flavors are beautifully enhanced by the savory notes of hummus.

Cucumber slices: Their high water content and mild flavor offer a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of hummus.
Carrot sticks: The sweetness of carrots complements the earthy hummus, creating a balanced and satisfying crunch.
Bell pepper strips: Whether red, yellow, or green, bell peppers bring a slightly sweet and tangy profile that cuts through the creaminess of the dip.
Celery sticks: Their distinct crunch and subtle salty taste make them an excellent vehicle for scooping up hummus.
Cherry tomatoes: The burst of juicy sweetness from cherry tomatoes adds a delightful dimension to each bite.
Radishes: For a peppery kick, radishes offer a zesty and crisp option.
Broccoli and Cauliflower florets: Lightly steamed or raw, these cruciferous vegetables provide a hearty and healthy dipping option.
Snap Peas: Their sweet and crunchy nature pairs wonderfully with the savory dip.

Crisp cucumber slices paired with creamy hummus.

Enjoying a colorful platter of raw vegetables with hummus is not only a healthy snack but also a visually appealing appetizer for gatherings.

2. Pita Bread: The Timeless Mediterranean Duo

Soft, warm pita bread is arguably the most classic and beloved companion for hummus. Its slightly chewy texture and mild flavor make it the perfect scoop for this creamy dip.

Warm pita wedges: Freshly baked or lightly toasted pita bread offers a comforting warmth and subtle chewiness that enhances the hummus experience.
Grilled pita: Grilling pita bread adds a smoky flavor and slight crispness, creating a delightful contrast with the smooth hummus.
Pita pockets: Stuff pita pockets with hummus and your favorite fillings like falafel, vegetables, or grilled meats for a complete and satisfying meal.

Tearing off a piece of pita bread, generously dipping it into hummus, and savoring the combination is a simple yet profoundly satisfying culinary pleasure, deeply rooted in Mediterranean tradition.

3. Pita Chips: For a Satisfying Crunch

If you prefer a crispy texture, pita chips are an excellent alternative to soft pita bread. Their crunchiness and often salty seasoning make them irresistible when paired with hummus.

Plain pita chips: These allow the flavor of the hummus to truly shine.
Seasoned pita chips: Sea salt, garlic, or za’atar seasoned pita chips add an extra layer of flavor complexity that complements hummus.
Baked pita chips: For a healthier option, oven-baked pita chips offer the same satisfying crunch with less oil.

4. Pretzels: A Salty and Savory Twist

Pretzels, with their characteristic sourdough tang and salty exterior, offer a unique and enjoyable pairing with hummus. The saltiness of the pretzel cuts through the richness of the dip, creating a balanced and moreish snack.

Pretzel twists: Classic pretzel twists provide a satisfying crunch and saltiness.
Pretzel rods: Easy to dip and offering a good balance of pretzel to hummus.
Pretzel crisps: Thin and crispy pretzel chips are perfect for scooping up a generous amount of hummus.

Salty pretzel twists served with a bowl of hummus.

The combination of salty pretzels and savory hummus is a crowd-pleasing snack that is perfect for parties or a quick afternoon bite.

5. Crackers: Versatility in Every Bite

Crackers of all kinds serve as fantastic vessels for hummus, offering a wide range of flavors and textures to experiment with.

Whole wheat crackers: Their hearty and slightly nutty flavor profile enhances the earthy notes of hummus.
Multigrain crackers: Packed with seeds and grains, these crackers add extra crunch and a subtle earthiness that pairs beautifully with hummus.
Sesame crackers: The nutty and slightly delicate taste of sesame crackers creates a pleasant contrast with the creamy dip.
Rice crackers: Their neutral flavor allows the distinct taste of hummus to take center stage.
Herb-infused crackers: Rosemary, thyme, or garlic crackers introduce an extra layer of flavor complexity, creating a more sophisticated snacking experience.

Exploring different types of crackers with your favorite hummus opens up a world of flavor combinations and textures.

6. Falafel: A Middle Eastern Feast

For a truly authentic Middle Eastern experience, pair hummus with falafel. These crispy, deep-fried chickpea patties are a classic partner for hummus, both sharing the same core ingredient.

Falafel balls: Serve warm falafel balls alongside a bowl of hummus for dipping.
Falafel sandwiches or wraps: Spread hummus inside pita bread and add falafel, vegetables, and tahini sauce for a complete and satisfying meal.

Falafel balls and hummus, a classic Middle Eastern pairing.

The crispy exterior and flavorful, spiced interior of falafel perfectly complement the creamy and tangy hummus, creating a harmonious and delicious pairing.

7. Apples: A Sweet and Savory Surprise

While it might seem unconventional, apples and hummus make a surprisingly delightful combination. The crisp sweetness of apples offers a refreshing contrast to the savory richness of hummus.

Apple slices: Crisp apple varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp work best.
Green apples: Granny Smith apples provide a tartness that cuts through the creaminess of the hummus.

Try dipping apple slices into hummus for a unique and healthy snack that balances sweet and savory flavors.

8. Chickpeas: Double the Chickpea Goodness

Since chickpeas are the star ingredient in hummus, topping your hummus with roasted chickpeas is a wonderful way to enhance both texture and flavor.

Roasted chickpeas: Seasoned with sea salt, smoked paprika, or other spices, roasted chickpeas add a satisfying crunch and intensified chickpea flavor.
Whole chickpeas: Simply adding whole cooked chickpeas on top provides a textural element and reinforces the core ingredient of the dip.

Hummus topped with crunchy roasted chickpeas.

This pairing offers a delightful textural contrast – creamy hummus with crunchy chickpeas – and a concentrated chickpea flavor.

9. Feta Cheese: A Mediterranean Flavor Fusion

Combining hummus with feta cheese creates a delicious fusion of Mediterranean flavors. The salty, tangy, and crumbly nature of feta provides a wonderful counterpoint to the smooth and creamy hummus.

Crumbled feta: Sprinkle feta cheese over hummus for added flavor and texture.
Feta and hummus dip: Layer hummus in a bowl and top with crumbled feta, olives, and a drizzle of olive oil for a Mediterranean-inspired dip.

The combination of feta and hummus is a simple yet elegant way to elevate your snacking experience, bringing together the best of Mediterranean cuisine.

10. Olives: Briny and Tangy Delight

Olives, with their briny and tangy flavor profile, are another classic Mediterranean pairing for hummus. Their robust flavor enhances the subtle nuances of the dip.

Kalamata olives: These Greek olives offer a rich, fruity, and slightly salty taste.
Green olives: Often brined with garlic or herbs, green olives provide a brighter, more pungent flavor.
Olive tapenade with hummus: For an intensified olive flavor, serve hummus alongside olive tapenade.

Green olives paired with a bowl of classic hummus.

Whether green or black, olives add a burst of briny and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the creamy and savory hummus.

Beyond Dipping: Creative Ways to Serve Hummus

Hummus is not just for dipping! Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a versatile ingredient for various dishes.

11. Sandwiches and Wraps: A Healthier Spread

Use hummus as a spread in sandwiches and wraps instead of mayonnaise or other condiments. It adds flavor, moisture, and a boost of protein and fiber.

Vegetarian sandwiches: Combine hummus with roasted vegetables, avocado, sprouts, and feta cheese in whole wheat bread or wraps.
Chicken or turkey sandwiches: Spread hummus on bread and layer with sliced chicken or turkey, lettuce, tomato, and cucumber.

Hummus used as a savory and healthy sandwich spread.

Hummus elevates sandwiches from ordinary to extraordinary, adding a Mediterranean twist and nutritional benefits.

12. Mashed Potatoes: A Lactose-Free Flavor Boost

For a dairy-free and flavorful twist on mashed potatoes, stir in hummus. It adds a creamy texture and savory depth without the need for butter or cream.

Garlic hummus mashed potatoes: Incorporate roasted garlic hummus into mashed potatoes for a rich and aromatic side dish.
Vegan mashed potatoes: Hummus is a perfect vegan alternative to butter or cream in mashed potatoes, adding both flavor and creaminess.

13. Deviled Eggs: A Healthier Twist on a Classic

Replace mayonnaise with hummus in deviled eggs for a healthier and more flavorful appetizer.

Hummus deviled eggs: Combine hummus with mustard, vinegar, and spices to create a creamy and tangy filling for deviled eggs.
Mediterranean deviled eggs: Add chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or feta cheese to hummus deviled eggs for a Mediterranean twist.

Hummus used as a mayonnaise substitute in deviled eggs.

Hummus offers a lighter and more flavorful alternative to mayonnaise in deviled eggs, while still maintaining the creamy texture.

14. Salad Dressing: Creamy and Protein-Packed

Transform hummus into a creamy and protein-rich salad dressing. Simply thin it out with lemon juice, water, or olive oil to achieve your desired consistency.

Hummus salad dressing: Whisk hummus with lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a simple and flavorful dressing.
Red pepper hummus dressing: Use roasted red pepper hummus as a base for a vibrant and slightly sweet salad dressing.
Mediterranean salad with hummus dressing: Dress a salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese with hummus dressing for a complete Mediterranean meal.

15. Pizza Base: A Mediterranean-Inspired Pie

Instead of traditional tomato sauce, use hummus as a base for your pizza. It creates a creamy and flavorful foundation for your favorite toppings.

Hummus pizza with vegetables: Top a hummus base with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant, along with feta cheese and olives.
Chicken and hummus pizza: Combine hummus with grilled chicken, red onion, spinach, and a sprinkle of mozzarella for a savory pizza.
Mediterranean hummus pizza: Create a Mediterranean-inspired pizza with a hummus base, sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.

Hummus used as a base for a Mediterranean-inspired pizza.

Hummus pizza offers a unique and flavorful alternative to tomato-based pizzas, opening up new culinary possibilities.

16. Soup Thickener: Creamy and Vegan Soups

Add hummus to soups to thicken them and add a creamy texture without using cream or dairy. It works especially well in pureed vegetable soups.

Hummus tomato soup: Stir hummus into tomato soup for added creaminess and flavor.
Vegan cream of mushroom soup with hummus: Use hummus to thicken and enrich vegan cream of mushroom soup.
Vegetable soup with hummus: Add a spoonful of hummus to any vegetable soup for extra body and protein.

17. Pasta Sauce: Creamy and Flavorful

Toss hummus with cooked pasta for a quick, creamy, and flavorful sauce.

Hummus pasta with vegetables: Combine hummus with your favorite pasta, roasted vegetables, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese (optional).
Mediterranean pasta salad with hummus: Use hummus as a dressing for a cold pasta salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese.

18. Chicken Marinade: Tender and Flavorful

Use hummus as a marinade for chicken to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.

Hummus marinated chicken: Coat chicken pieces in hummus and let them marinate before grilling, baking, or pan-frying.
Lemon herb hummus chicken marinade: Mix hummus with lemon juice, herbs like rosemary and thyme, and garlic for a flavorful chicken marinade.

Hummus used as a marinade to tenderize and flavor chicken.

Hummus marinade creates incredibly juicy and flavorful chicken, perfect for weeknight dinners or grilling.

19. Tuna Salad: Mayo-Free and Flavorful

Replace mayonnaise with hummus in tuna salad for a healthier and more flavorful twist on this classic dish.

Hummus tuna salad: Mix canned tuna with hummus, chopped celery, red onion, and lemon juice for a delicious and mayo-free tuna salad.
Tuna hummus pita: Spread hummus tuna salad in pita bread with fresh vegetables for a quick and healthy lunch.

20. Buddha Bowls: A Nutritious Base

Use hummus as a base or component in Buddha bowls for added protein, creaminess, and flavor.

Mediterranean Buddha bowl: Combine hummus with quinoa, roasted chickpeas, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and spinach for a balanced and nutritious bowl.
Vegan Buddha bowl with hummus: Create a vegan Buddha bowl with hummus, roasted vegetables, lentils, avocado, and tahini dressing.

Hummus as a component in a healthy and vibrant Buddha bowl.

Hummus adds a creamy and satisfying element to Buddha bowls, contributing to both flavor and nutritional value.

21. Greek Layered Dip: Party Appetizer

Take hummus to the next level by creating a Greek layered dip, perfect for parties and gatherings.

Greek layered hummus dip: Layer hummus in a dish and top with feta cheese, diced cucumbers, tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve with pita bread or pita chips.
Hummus nachos: Spread Greek layered dip over pita chips for a Mediterranean-inspired twist on nachos.

22. Hummus Quesadillas: Dairy-Free Delight

For a dairy-free quesadilla option, swap cheese for hummus. It adds creaminess and flavor to this Mexican classic.

Hummus and vegetable quesadillas: Fill tortillas with hummus, grilled vegetables, black beans, and sun-dried tomatoes.
Chicken hummus quesadillas: Combine hummus with shredded chicken, black beans, feta cheese, and olives in quesadillas.

Hummus used as a dairy-free alternative to cheese in quesadillas.

Hummus quesadillas are a delicious and satisfying option for those seeking dairy-free or plant-based alternatives.

What To Eat With Hummus: 21 Delicious Ideas

Storing Hummus for Freshness

Hummus stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge.

Proper storage is crucial to maintain the freshness and flavor of your hummus. Follow these tips to keep your hummus delicious for longer:

Airtight container: Store hummus in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out and absorbing odors.
Refrigerate promptly: Refrigerate hummus as soon as possible after opening or making it.
Freezer-safe container for long-term storage: If you want to store hummus for longer periods, use a freezer-safe container.
Olive oil layer: Pour a thin layer of olive oil on top of the hummus to help seal in moisture and prevent it from drying out.
Avoid strong odors in the fridge: Store hummus away from strong-smelling foods to prevent it from absorbing unwanted flavors.
Portion before freezing: Freeze hummus in smaller portions for easier thawing and use.

Elevate Your Meals with Hummus

From simple snacks to creative meals, hummus is an incredibly versatile and delicious ingredient. Whether you’re dipping vegetables, spreading it on sandwiches, or incorporating it into more complex dishes, hummus offers endless culinary possibilities. Explore these ideas and discover your favorite ways to enjoy this Mediterranean delight. With so many options, the question isn’t what to eat with hummus, but rather what will you try first?

Cady Cohen

Author

Cady Cohen is a culinary writer at Instacart who empowers home cooks to navigate the exciting world of food with confidence.

Heather Matley

Editor

Heather Matley is an editor at Instacart with a passion for food and cooking, dedicated to providing readers with effective culinary tools and ideas.