This Layered Greek Dip is a colorful and tasty dish, perfect for sharing. With creamy yogurt, fresh veggies, and tangy olives, it hits all the right notes!
Who wouldn’t love scooping up all those layers with crunchy pita chips? It’s like a party in a bowl! I enjoy making it ahead of time to let the flavors mingle—all about easy hosting!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This gives a rich base for the dip. If you want a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt instead. It adds creaminess without extra calories.
Hummus: I love using plain hummus, but you could mix it up with flavored varieties like roasted red pepper or garlic for a twist. It’s also a great option for a vegan dip!
Kalamata Olives: These olives bring a delicious brininess. If they’re not your thing, try using black olives or green olives instead—both work well!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds that crumbly texture and tangy flavor. If you can’t find it, goat cheese can be a nice substitute, giving a different but delightful taste.
Greek Yogurt: I use plain yogurt for the dip, but feel free to swap in tzatziki if you want that extra kick of flavor from the cucumber and spices.
How Can I Layer This Dip for the Best Presentation?
Layering your dip not only looks good, but it also allows flavors to shine through! Here’s how to achieve that perfect layering:
- Start with a smooth base: Make sure your cream cheese and hummus mixture is well blended for an even spread.
- Drain ingredients like cucumbers: This prevents excess moisture, keeping your layers looking neat and preventing watery dip.
- Spread ingredients gently: Use a spatula to layer finely—this helps maintain the visual separation between layers.
- Garnish with flair: Sprinkle dill on top for a pop of green and a finishing touch. A drizzle of olive oil can also elevate the look.
Let the dip chill before serving to meld those lovely flavors. Enjoy making it your own!
How to Make Layered Greek Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup hummus
Fresh Veggies:
- 1 cup diced cucumber (drained if watery)
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
Flavorful Toppings:
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Garnishes:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt or tzatziki
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Crackers, pita chips, or sliced vegetables
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Layered Greek Dip requires about 15 minutes of preparation time and at least 30 minutes to chill. This dip is simple to assemble, and the chilling time lets all those delicious flavors come together beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the hummus until smooth and well combined. This creamy mix creates a great base for the dip. Spread this mixture evenly in the bottom of a shallow serving dish or bowl.
2. Add Fresh Veggies:
Layer the diced cucumber evenly over the cream cheese and hummus layer. This adds a refreshing crunch that complements the creamy base.
3. Top with Tomatoes:
Sprinkle the halved grape or cherry tomatoes evenly on top of the cucumber. Their sweetness adds a pop of color and flavor!
4. Sprinkle Olives:
Add a layer of chopped Kalamata olives across the tomatoes. Their briny taste enhances the Mediterranean vibe of this dish.
5. Create the Yogurt Layer:
In a separate bowl, combine the Greek yogurt (or tzatziki) with garlic powder, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Spread this creamy mixture on top of the olive layer to create a delicious finishing touch.
6. Add Feta and Oil:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese generously over the yogurt layer. Drizzle with olive oil to enhance the flavors and add a bit of richness.
7. Garnish and Cool:
Scatter chopped fresh dill over the entire dip for a vibrant touch. Then, cover the dish and chill the layered dip in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
When ready to serve, present the dip with crackers, pita chips, or fresh sliced vegetables. Enjoy your fresh, colorful, and creamy Layered Greek Dip!
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid, and store it in the refrigerator. This also helps the flavors meld beautifully overnight!
Can I Substitute Ingredients?
Yes! If you don’t have certain ingredients, feel free to make substitutions. For example, instead of cream cheese, you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option. You can also replace Kalamata olives with black olives if preferred, and goat cheese can be used instead of feta.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to consume it fresh, but if you have leftovers, just give it a stir before serving again!
Is This Dip Vegetarian and Gluten-Free?
Yes, this Layered Greek Dip is vegetarian as it contains no meat. However, to make it gluten-free, be sure to serve it with gluten-free crackers or veggie sticks instead of regular pita chips or crackers.
