Heart-Shaped Veggie and Hummus Platter

Name: Heart-Shaped Veggie and Hummus Platter
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 cup baby carrots; 1 cup cucumber, sliced; 1 cup bell peppers, assorted colors, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes; 1 cup celery sticks; 1 cup radishes, halved; 2 cups hummus (store-bought or homemade)

Highlighted under: Quick Meal Recipes

I love creating vibrant and festive platters, especially for gatherings or special occasions. This Heart-Shaped Veggie and Hummus Platter is not only visually appealing, but it's also incredibly easy to assemble and makes for a nutritious snack or appetizer. Featuring an array of colorful vegetables paired with creamy hummus, it’s a dish that pleases both the eyes and the palate. I enjoy customizing the veggies based on what’s in season or available, which gives each platter a unique touch.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-13T14:55:29.864Z

When I first made this Heart-Shaped Veggie and Hummus Platter, it was for a Valentine’s Day party. Everyone loved the creativity, and I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly it disappeared! The fresh veggies are not only tasty but also add a lovely crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy hummus. I found that arranging everything in the shape of a heart created a wonderful atmosphere, encouraging guests to dig in and share.

One of my favorite tips is to lightly season the hummus with spices, like smoked paprika or cumin, to elevate the flavor profile. Don't be afraid to mix and match vegetables. I always include a variety of colors and textures to keep things exciting. This platter is not only fun to make but also fantastic for heart health and overall wellness!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A beautiful and colorful presentation that brightens any table
Healthy snacking made fun and appealing for kids and adults alike
Easily customizable with your choice of seasonal vegetables

      

Choosing the Right Vegetables

Selecting seasonal vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also adds vibrant color to your platter. I recommend using crunchy vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, and radishes for their satisfying textures. Try to mix different colors for visual appeal: red and yellow bell peppers, green cucumbers, and purple radishes create a feast for the eyes. If you're looking for alternatives, consider jicama for its sweetness or snap peas for a crisp bite.

To ensure freshness, buy vegetables a day or two before assembling your platter. Store them in the refrigerator in a breathable produce bag to maintain their crunch. If you notice any wilted greens, quickly trim the ends and place them in a glass of water for a few hours to revive them before serving.

Tips for Perfect Hummus

Using quality hummus enhances the overall taste of your veggie platter. If you opt for store-bought hummus, consider flavors like roasted red pepper or garlic that complement the vegetables beautifully. If you decide to make your own, using dried chickpeas soaked overnight can give your hummus a creamier consistency compared to canned chickpeas, which can sometimes produce a grainy texture.

When preparing hummus, blend the ingredients on high until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. You want a smooth and creamy result, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Add a little water or olive oil gradually while blending to achieve your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Heart-Shaped Veggie and Hummus Platter, consider pairing it with whole grain pita chips or crackers on the side. This adds an additional crunchy element and provides a fun dipping option for your guests. I often use artisan pita chips with different seasonings to enhance flavor and presentation.

For a festive touch, you might sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or smoked paprika on top of the hummus before serving. This not only adds flavor but also texture, providing a satisfying crunch. If you're making this for a larger gathering, doubling the ingredients ensures everyone has plenty to enjoy!

Ingredients

Gather the following fresh ingredients to create a delightful platter:

Ingredients for the Platter

1 cup baby carrots
1 cup cucumber, sliced
1 cup bell peppers, assorted colors, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 cup celery sticks
1 cup radishes, halved
2 cups hummus (store-bought or homemade)

You can adjust the quantities based on how many people you're serving.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to assemble your stunning platter:

Prepare the Vegetables

Wash and cut all the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Arrange them in a heart shape on a large serving platter, starting from the center.

Add the Hummus

In a small bowl or directly in the center of the platter, place the hummus. You can either leave it plain or sprinkle some spices on top for additional flavor.

Garnish and Serve

Add any additional garnishes like fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil on the hummus. Serve immediately and enjoy!

This platter is best enjoyed fresh, so assemble it close to serving time for optimal flavor.

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on your preferences or what's in season. This makes it a versatile dish that's great year-round.

Make-Ahead Options

This platter is incredibly versatile for make-ahead preparation. You can cut your vegetables up to a day in advance; just store them in airtight containers with damp paper towels to keep them crisp. Hummus can also be made up to a week ahead and stored in the fridge. Just be sure to keep it covered to prevent it from drying out.

If you're short on time the day of your event, prepping the ingredients in advance allows you to assemble the platter quickly. Just before serving, arrange the vegetables and top with freshly drizzled olive oil or herbs for a bright, fresh finish.

Storage and Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, store the vegetables in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, for the best texture, consume them fresh. The hummus can last in the fridge for about a week when properly stored; just give it a stir before serving if it separates.

If you're wondering about freezing, while hummus can be frozen, freshly cut vegetables do not retain their crispness well after thawing. If you want to freeze hummus, remember to leave some space in the container as it will expand. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Variations to Try

Feel free to mix and match different vegetables to suit your taste or seasonal availability. Broccoli florets, snap peas, and even little cups of endive leaves can make wonderful additions. Additionally, consider serving flavored hummus versions such as beet or avocado for a unique twist that will surprise your guests.

For a more festive feel, you can even incorporate slices of cheese or charcuterie alongside the veggies. This not only adds flavor variety but also transforms your platter into a charming antipasti spread perfect for entertaining. Just remember to keep things balanced and colorful!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the platter ahead of time?

It's best to assemble the platter close to serving time for the freshest look and taste. However, you can prep the vegetables a few hours in advance.

→ What type of hummus should I use?

You can use store-bought hummus or make your own. Flavored varieties such as roasted red pepper or garlic can also add a nice twist.

→ What can I substitute for the vegetables?

You can use any crunchy vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, or even pita chips for dipping.

→ How long does leftover hummus last?

Leftover hummus can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.