seven layer mediterranean dip

Well, I'm pretty much beat.  After surviving six (yes, six!) family Christmas's, countless treats, and a few too many glasses of wine, I am officially done with the holiday celebrations.  To my amazement, I am actually sick of this veggie-less and chocolate-laden diet that I've "been on" for the past 2 weeks and am ready for some healthy eats!  


Luckily, I knew from past years that I was going to be tempted by lots of sinful food over the numerous holiday celebrations I was attending.  There were going to be lots of little smokies, spinach and artichoke dip, oyster stew, fudge, and Christmas sugar cookies to be consumed, so I planned ahead to make an appetizer I could fill up on without completely over do-ing it.  This mediterranean dip seemed to be just the solution.  


I added this tasty dip to an appetizer-themed Christmas party and I'm dang proud to say it was the only bowl that was scraped clean.  I put it in a large glass bowl so the layers of creamy hummus, crunchy lettuce and cucumbers, pungent onions and tangy feta cheese could be seen waiting to be scooped up with pita chips.  The combination of flavors kept everyone coming back for more.  


Are you thinking of getting a head-start on your new years resolution sugar detox?  This would be a great appetizer to bring to the final celebration of the year on Friday! 


Seven-Layer Mediterranean Dip
from Circle B Kitchen


20 oz hummus
1 cup cucumber, peeled and diced (about 1 large)
1 cup shredded romaine lettuce
2 large tomatoes, diced
1/2 red onion, diced
3/4 cup olives, diced
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
Pita chips for dipping


Directions:


In large glass bowl, spread the hummus in an even layer.  Then add cucumber, lettuce, tomatoes, olives, and cheese.  Keep chilled until ready to serve.  Serve with pita chips.