The festive season is all about bringing family and friends together to celebrate, and what better way to do that than with delicious, easy-to-make sharing plates that everyone can enjoy? If you’re looking for a dish that’s both festive and full of flavour, this Hummus & Olive Salad from the Simbambili Kitchen is the perfect addition to your Christmas lunch spread.

This creamy, tangy hummus served with a vibrant topping of olives, feta, pomegranate, and fresh herbs makes for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s simple to prepare but packed with taste. It’s a beautiful and fuss-free option for those looking to serve something a little different at the holiday table — ideal for dipping, spreading, or simply enjoying as part of a larger festive feast!

Hummus & Olive Salad Recipe

Ingredients (Serves 6)

For the Hummus:

• 1 can of chickpeas, drained
• 2 medium garlic cloves
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 3 tbsp tahini paste
• 1/4 cup toasted white sesame seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup olive oil

For the Topping:

• 2 tbsp pomegranate rubies
• 1/2 medium red onion, finely diced
• 8 large Kalamata olives, pitted
• 8 large green olives, pitted
• 1/4 cup feta, crumbled
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
• 1 tbsp freshly chopped mint
• 2 tbsp good quality olive oil
• Homemade tortilla crisps for dipping

Method

1. Blitz the Hummus Ingredients:
   In the bowl of a food processor, combine the chickpeas, garlic, ground cumin, lemon juice, tahini, sesame seeds, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blitz everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2. Add Olive Oil:
   With the motor running, gradually drizzle in the olive oil, blending until the hummus becomes silky and smooth. Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
3. Prepare the Topping:
   In a small bowl, combine the pomegranate rubies, red onion, Kalamata and green olives, crumbled feta, lemon zest, parsley, and mint. Drizzle with the good-quality olive oil and gently toss to combine.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Spread a generous layer of hummus across the base of a large platter. Top with the prepared topping mixture, ensuring even distribution of the olives, pomegranate, and feta. For extra colour and texture, sprinkle over the freshly chopped herbs.
5. Serve & Enjoy:
   Serve your hummus and olive salad with homemade tortilla crisps for dipping, or use fresh veggies, pita bread, or crackers. Enjoy the festive flavours and share with family and friends!

Why This Hummus & Olive Salad is Perfect for Christmas

• Make-Ahead: The hummus can easily be prepared in advance, giving you more time to enjoy the holiday festivities. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days! You can also prepare the topping in advance and simply assemble the dish just before serving.
• Simple and Customisable: With just a handful of ingredients, this dish is not only quick and easy but also adaptable. Add roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flair!
• Great for Sharing: Whether you’re serving it as a dip with tortilla crisps, fresh pita bread, crackers, or even veggies, this dish is perfect for passing around the table and sharing with loved ones.
• Vegetarian & Vegan-Friendly: This hummus is plant-based and works for a variety of dietary preferences, making it a versatile option for your Christmas lunch table.

Make Your Christmas Spread Extra Special

By focusing on simple yet flavour-packed dishes like this Hummus & Olive Salad, you can easily create a festive atmosphere that’s both relaxed and delicious. The creamy hummus, topped with the bright and tangy olives, feta, and fresh herbs, is the perfect addition to your Christmas table. Not only does it offer a great balance of flavours, but it also looks vibrant and inviting — a true crowd-pleaser!

Happy Holidays from the African bushveld! 🎄✨