You can whip this up in 20 minutes or less! I remember scrambling to find a last-minute appetizer for a summer patio gathering when I came up with this fresh take on the classic party staple. Though the traditional Mexican 7-layer dip is a classic, I wanted something that felt lighter, brighter, and packed with those zippy Greek flavors we all crave. This Layered Mediterranean Dip is perfectly refreshing and yet totally crave-worthy.
If you are looking for the absolute star of your subsequent appetizer spread, this is it. It combines a tangy, herbed cream cheese base with creamy hummus and a “salad” of crisp vegetables and salty feta on top. It’s visually stunning with its vibrant colors, but the real magic happens when you get that perfect bite containing every single layer. Whether you are hosting a game night or need a dish to pass at a potluck, this dip delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Table of Contents
Layered Mediterranean Dip
Ingredients
For the Cream Cheese Base:
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened to room temperature
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic minced
For the Layers:
- 1 cup prepared hummus store-bought or homemade
- ¾ cup cucumber diced (seeds removed)
- ¾ cup tomatoes diced (grape or Roma work best)
- ½ cup Kalamata olives pitted and chopped
- ½ cup feta cheese crumbled
- ¼ cup green onions thinly sliced
For Serving:
- Pita chips fresh pita bread wedges, or veggie sticks
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic until smooth and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps.
- Spread the Foundation: Spread the cheese mixture evenly in a shallow dish or platter (approx. ½-inch thick). Gently spread the hummus over the cheese layer, ensuring complete coverage.
- Layer the Freshness: Top the hummus with the diced cucumber (pat dry if wet), followed by the tomatoes. Sprinkle the chopped olives and crumbled feta cheese over the vegetables.
- Finish and Chill: Scatter the green onions on top. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let flavors meld. Serve chilled with pita chips or veggies.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Note that cucumbers may release water over time.
- Make-Ahead: You can assemble this dip up to 24 hours in advance.
- Dietary Variations: For a dairy-free version, swap the cream cheese and feta for plant-based alternatives.
- Pro-Tip: Pat your cucumbers dry with a paper towel before layering to prevent the dip from becoming watery.
Nutrition
Ingredients
To achieve the best results, opt for fresh produce whenever possible, as the texture of the vegetables really makes this dish shine. Here is precisely what you will need to get started:
For the Cream Cheese Base:
- 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened to room temperature (this is crucial for a smooth texture).
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Layers:
- 1 cup prepared hummus (I usually grab my favorite garlic or original store-bought variety to save time)
- ¾ cup cucumber, diced (seeds removed for less moisture)
- ¾ cup tomatoes, diced (grape or Roma tomatoes hold their shape best)
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled (I find buying a block and crumbling it yourself offers the best flavor)
- ¼ cup green onions, thinly sliced
For Serving:
- Pita chips or fresh pita bread, cut into wedges
Instructions
Get ready to build a masterpiece! These steps are designed to ensure your Layered Mediterranean Dip holds up beautifully without getting watery.
1. Prepare the Lemon-Herb Cream Cheese Base
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, fresh lemon juice, dried Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. Using an electric hand mixer or a sturdy spoon, beat the ingredients together until completely smooth and well combined, about 2 minutes.
You want the cream cheese to be light, fluffy, and have no lumps. If you forgot to take your cream cheese out of the fridge (we have all been there!), You can cube it and microwave it for about 10-15 seconds to soften it up. The lemon juice here adds a bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the cheese, while the garlic brings that bold, savory punch.
2. Build Your Foundation
Spread the lemon-herb cream cheese mixture evenly across the bottom of your serving dish. You can use a shallow casserole dish, an oval gratin dish, or even build it pyramid-style on a large platter for visual impact. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to create an even layer approximately ½ inch thick.
Next, carefully spread the hummus over the cream cheese layer. This is where patience pays off. Try to ensure complete coverage so you maintain distinct, beautiful layers when guests dig in. I recommend using a classic hummus here rather than a flavored one, so it doesn’t compete with the herbed cheese base.
3. Layer the Fresh Vegetables
Starting with the diced cucumber, create an even layer over the hummus. Pro tip: Pat the cucumber pieces dry with a paper towel before adding them if they seem particularly wet; this helps prevent the dip from becoming watery later.
Follow with the diced tomatoes, spreading them evenly across the cucumber layer. Continue building by sprinkling the chopped Kalamata olives over the tomatoes, then add the crumbled feta cheese as your next layer. The saltiness of the olives combined with the tangy creaminess of the feta is absolutely addictive. Finish by scattering the sliced green onions across the top, creating a vibrant, colorful crown for your masterpiece.
4. Chill & Serve
Cover the dip tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 12 hours before serving. This chilling time allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully and helps the layers appropriately set.
When you are ready to serve, please remove the dish from the refrigerator and arrange the pita chips around the edges of your platter. Watching your guests dive in and discover that hidden layer of lemon-garlic cream cheese is always the best part!
Tips & Variations for the Best Mediterranean Dip
While I love the classic recipe above, this Layered Mediterranean Dip is incredibly forgiving and adaptable. Here are a few ways you can customize it to suit your needs or make adjustments for dietary requirements.
Ingredient Swaps and Flavor Boosts
- Swap the Hummus: If you want to switch up the flavor profile, try using a roasted red pepper hummus or even a spicy lentil dip as your second layer.
- The “7 Layer Mediterranean Dip” Style: To make this a true seven-layer Mediterranean dip, add a layer of chopped marinated artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers between the olives and the feta. It adds a lovely textural contrast and a glossy, vinegary bite.
- Fresh Herbs: If you have them on hand, swapping the dried Italian seasoning for fresh dill or parsley creates an even fresher, garden-style flavor profile.
Dietary Adaptations
- Dairy-Free Option: You can easily adapt this dip for dairy-free diets by using a plant-based cream cheese alternative and omitting the feta, or using a dairy-free cheese crumble. The hummus and veggies pack so much flavor that they will still deliver a punch.
- Gluten-Free Serving: While pita chips are the standard vehicle for this dip, you can opt for gluten-free crackers or crisp vegetable sticks, such as bell pepper strips and carrot rounds, to keep the entire platter gluten-free.
Make-Ahead Secrets
- Prep in Advance: You can assemble this dip up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, it tastes even better after sitting overnight because the garlic mellows out and infuses the cream cheese.
- Storage: If you somehow have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), They store well in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Please note that the cucumbers may release a small amount of water over time.
What to Serve With Layered Mediterranean Dip
The right dippers make all the difference! Since this is a substantial dip with heavy layers, you need sturdy accompaniments.
- Pita Chips: These are the gold standard. Their crunch contrasts perfectly with the silky layers of cream cheese and hummus.
- Fresh Pita Bread: Warm, soft pita wedges are great if you want the appetizer to feel more like a light meal.
- Veggie Sticks: For a lighter, crunchier option, serve this with celery sticks, bell pepper strips, or thick cucumber rounds. It adds a nice “snap” to every bite.
- Falafel: If you want to turn this appetizer spread into a full dinner, serve the dip alongside warm falafel and maybe a side of tabbouleh.
FAQs
What is a seven-layer Greek hummus dip?
A 7-layer Greek hummus dip is very similar to this recipe but typically includes extra layers to reach the number seven. Common additions include tzatziki sauce, roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or even a layer of pesto. It’s a celebration of Greek flavors stacked high for easy scooping.
What are common Mediterranean dips?
Beyond this layered Mediterranean dip, the region is famous for incredible spreads. You have Tzatziki (yogurt and cucumber), Baba Ganoush (roasted eggplant), Melitzanosalata (another eggplant variant), and Tyrokafteri (spicy cheese dip). Incorporating these into a larger mezze platter is a great way to host a Mediterranean-themed party.
Can I make this easy layered hummus dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! This easy layered Mediterranean dip actually benefits from being refrigerated. You can assemble it fully the night before your event. Just keep it tightly covered so the top layer of green onions and cheese doesn’t dry out. It’s the perfect stress-free party prep item.
Conclusion
There is a reason this Layered Mediterranean Dip has become my go-to for almost every gathering. It’s fresh, vibrant, and requires absolutely no cooking, just a little chopping and mixing. The combination of the zippy lemon-garlic base with the earthy hummus and salty feta is a flavor profile that everyone seems to fall in love with.
Please give this recipe a try for your next get-together! I’d love to hear how you customized it. Did you add artichokes? Did you spice up the hummus? Please let me know in the comments below, and enjoy your snacking!
