Sandstone Canyon Hummus Layers (Printable Version)

Layered creamy hummus and crisp crackers create textured, savory waves reminiscent of canyon landscapes.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Hummus Layers

01 - 1 3/4 cups classic hummus (store-bought or homemade)
02 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
03 - 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
04 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
05 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

→ Crackers

06 - 7 ounces beige crackers (e.g., whole wheat, sesame, or water crackers)

→ Garnish

07 - 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
08 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
09 - 1 small lemon, cut into wedges

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Combine hummus, smoked paprika, olive oil, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper in a bowl; mix until smooth and evenly seasoned.
02 - Spread a thin, wavy layer of the hummus mixture over a large serving platter using a spatula to form ridges and valleys reminiscent of canyon terrain.
03 - Position crackers upright along the hummus waves to form canyon walls, slightly overlapping them to add texture and depth.
04 - Alternate layers of hummus and crackers in gentle waves, repeating 3 to 4 times to achieve a striking layered effect.
05 - Scatter toasted sesame seeds and chopped parsley over the top to enhance texture and visual appeal.
06 - Present immediately with lemon wedges on the side to add a zesty finish.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • It looks like you spent hours in the kitchen when it actually takes fifteen minutes.
  • No cooking means no stress, perfect for when you'd rather spend time with guests than hiding in the kitchen.
  • The wavy layers hide a quiet magic—everything tastes better when it's arranged like art.
02 -
  • Don't mix the hummus too much after adding spices or it becomes gluey; fold gently until the color is even.
  • If your hummus is too thick to spread in thin waves, stir in a touch more olive oil—it makes all the difference between a rigid mound and something that actually looks like landscape.
03 -
  • Toast your own sesame seeds in a dry skillet for two minutes to unlock their full nutty potential—jarred toasted seeds are good, but fresh-toasted are incomparable.
  • Chill the hummus slightly before spreading if your kitchen is warm; cold hummus holds its shape and creates cleaner ridges than room-temperature hummus.
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