Mediterranean Platter

This Mediterranean Platter offers an opportunity for stylish expression that can be prepared ahead of time. As a simple snack that encourages people to gather and socialize, it's a perfect summer spread that combines veggies, hummus, cheese and pita bread.

Ingredients: 

• ½ lemon, thinly sliced
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt, divided
• ¼ teaspoon sugar
• 3 ¾ teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 1 cup diced tomato
• 1 cup diced English cucumber
• 1 tablespoon diced dill pickle
• 2 tablespoons sliced green onion
• 2 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, chopped
• 1 ½ teaspoons red wine vinegar
• ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 lb. fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 3 cups hummus
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 ¼ cups pitted mixed olives
• 6 pita breads, warmed and quartered

Instructions:

Step 1: In bowl, mix lemon, 1/4 teaspoon salt and sugar. Cover and chill 2-6 hours. Dice lemon. Mix diced lemon and 1/4 teaspoon olive oil. Cover and chill.

Step 2: Mix diced lemon, tomato, cucumber, pickle, green onion, parsley, vinegar, 1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cover and chill.

Step 3: Lightly oil grill rack and heat grill to medium. Mix pepper, asparagus, remaining oil and remaining salt.

Step 4: Grill asparagus 2 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Let cool. Cover and chill.

Step 5: Set large serving platter on work surface. Place hummus and tomato salad in small bowls.

Step 6: To assemble, place larger items on platter then arrange smaller items around them. Group pita in several small stacks next to bowls. Arrange feta and olives in remaining space. Enjoy!

Source: Family Features Editorial Syndicate