**Mediterranean Hummus Bowl Recipe**

**Mediterranean Hummus Bowl Recipe**

**Ingredients:**

**For the Hummus:**
– 1 can (15 oz/425g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
– 1/4 cup (60ml) well-stirred tahini
– 1 small garlic clove, minced
– 2 tablespoons (30ml) extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt to taste
– 2 to 3 tablespoons (30-45ml) water
– Paprika for garnish

**For the Toppings:**
– Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
– Cherry tomatoes, halved
– Cucumber, diced
– Feta cheese, cubed
– Fresh parsley, chopped
– Red onion, finely diced
– Additional chickpeas (optional)
– Olive oil for drizzling
– Red pepper flakes (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Hummus:**
– In a food processor, combine tahini and lemon juice and process for 1 minute. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl then process for 30 seconds more. This extra time helps to whip the tahini, making the hummus smooth and creamy.
– Add the olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, and a pinch of salt to the whipped tahini and lemon juice. Process for 30 seconds, scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl then process another 30 seconds or until well blended.
– Add half of the chickpeas to the food processor and process for 1 minute. Scrape sides and bottom of the bowl, then add remaining chickpeas and process until thick and quite smooth (1 to 2 minutes).
– If the hummus is too thick or still has tiny bits of chickpea, with the processor turned on, slowly add 2 to 3 tablespoons of water until you reach the perfect consistency.

2. **Assemble the Hummus Bowl:**
– Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl and use the back of a spoon to create a well in the center.
– Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the hummus and sprinkle with paprika for garnish.
– Top the hummus with Kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, feta cheese, fresh parsley, red onion, and additional chickpeas if desired.
– Optionally, sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

3. **Serve:**
– Serve with pita bread, pita chips, or fresh vegetables for dipping.

This Mediterranean hummus bowl is perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal! Enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavors.