Party-Worthy Hummus (with Gorgeous Hummus Toppings)

This recipe is my go-to when I need something that looks impressive but takes almost no effort — perfect for holidays and dinner parties alike. I start with a base of creamy hummus (store-bought to keep things easy, but you can absolutely make it from scratch using your hummus recipe). Then it’s all about the toppings — or as I like to think of them, the hummus jewelry.

Shallots, garlic, pine nuts, and sage are all fried in olive oil until crisp and golden, infusing the oil as they cook. That same oil is poured over the hummus, adding richness and a gorgeous sheen. The fried shallots and pine nuts bring crunch, the sage adds a savory, aromatic note, and the dates and pomegranate seeds balance everything with sweetness and color. A final sprinkle of sumac and a few mint leaves or parsley make it look like something straight off a restaurant table — no one will guess how easy it was to make.

It’s festive, full of flavor, and a total crowd-pleaser. Serve it with warm pita or crusty bread, or add it to a holiday grazing board for an effortless appetizer that always disappears fast.

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium shallots (thinly sliced)
• 1 clove garlic (thinly sliced)
• 2 tablespoons pine nuts
• 10 small sage leaves
• 2 cups hummus
• 2 dates (pit removed and chopped small)
• 2 tablespoons pomegranate seeds
• 1 pinch sumac
• Mint or chopped parsley (for color)