If you’re searching for the perfect appetizer that’s easy to make, visually stunning, and packed with flavor, look no further than Roasted Red Pepper and Hummus Phyllo Cups. These crispy, golden phyllo cups are filled with creamy hummus and topped with vibrant roasted red peppers, offering a delicious Mediterranean-inspired bite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for an appetizer for your next gathering, these phyllo cups are sure to impress.

In this SEO-optimized guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making these delectable phyllo cups, from the ingredients to the step-by-step process. We’ll also include tips on working with phyllo dough and pairing suggestions to elevate your party spread. Ready to dive into this savory appetizer? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love Roasted Red Pepper and Hummus Phyllo Cups

1. Easy to Make

Despite their fancy appearance, these phyllo cups are incredibly easy to make. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you’ll have a stunning appetizer in under 30 minutes.

2. Versatile

Hummus phyllo cups can be adapted to suit different tastes. Feel free to switch up the toppings or experiment with various flavors of hummus. You can even make these cups vegan by using plant-based butter to brush the phyllo dough.

3. Crowd-Pleasing

The combination of crispy phyllo, creamy hummus, and the smoky, slightly sweet flavor of roasted red peppers is a guaranteed hit with guests. Plus, their bite-sized form makes them perfect for parties, allowing for easy, mess-free snacking.

4. Visually Appealing

With their golden phyllo cups and vibrant red pepper topping, these appetizers are a feast for the eyes. The presentation is elegant and refined, making them ideal for formal events or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients for Roasted Red Pepper and Hummus Phyllo Cups

To make 24 phyllo cups, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Phyllo Cups:

  • 1 package (15 sheets) phyllo dough, thawed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

  • 1 cup hummus (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Roasted Red Pepper and Hummus Phyllo Cups

Step 1: Prepare the Phyllo Cups

Working with phyllo dough can be intimidating, but with the right technique, it’s easy to handle.

  1. Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Layer the phyllo dough: Lay one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean, dry surface. Brush it lightly with melted butter. Stack another sheet of phyllo dough on top and brush it with butter. Repeat this process until you have stacked 5 sheets of phyllo dough.
  3. Cut the phyllo: Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the stacked phyllo dough into 3-inch squares. You should get about 24 squares.
  4. Form the cups: Gently press each phyllo square into a mini muffin tin, forming small cups. Be sure to work gently, as the dough is fragile.
  5. Bake the phyllo cups: Bake the phyllo cups in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Once done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Roasted Red Pepper and Hummus Mixture

While the phyllo cups are baking, prepare the roasted red pepper topping:

  1. In a small bowl, combine the chopped roasted red peppers, olive oil, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Stir until well combined, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Assemble the Phyllo Cups

  1. Once the phyllo cups have cooled, spoon about 1 tablespoon of hummus into each cup.
  2. Top each hummus-filled phyllo cup with a small amount of the roasted red pepper mixture.
  3. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a light dusting of smoked paprika for extra color and flavor.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve these roasted red pepper and hummus phyllo cups immediately to maintain the crispiness of the phyllo. They’re best enjoyed fresh but can be prepared in advance for added convenience.

Tips for Working with Phyllo Dough

1. Keep Phyllo Dough Moist

Phyllo dough dries out quickly, making it difficult to work with. To prevent this, cover the sheets you aren’t using with a slightly damp kitchen towel while you work.

2. Use Melted Butter

Brushing each layer of phyllo dough with melted butter ensures that your cups turn out golden brown and crispy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute olive oil for the butter.

3. Don’t Overstuff the Cups

While it might be tempting to pile on the hummus and toppings, be careful not to overfill the cups. Overstuffing can cause the phyllo to become soggy or fall apart.

4. Make Phyllo Cups Ahead of Time

You can prepare the phyllo cups in advance and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Fill them with hummus and toppings just before serving to ensure the cups stay crisp.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (1 phyllo cup):

  • Calories: 90
  • Fat: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sodium: 95mg

(Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on specific ingredients used.)

Variations of Roasted Red Pepper and Hummus Phyllo Cups

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. While roasted red pepper and hummus are a winning combination, you can switch things up by experimenting with other fillings:

  • Spicy Hummus: Add a kick to the cups by using spicy hummus and topping them with a slice of jalapeño.
  • Herb Hummus: Use an herb-infused hummus and garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary for an elevated flavor profile.
  • Mediterranean Twist: Add a slice of kalamata olive and crumbled feta cheese on top of the hummus for a Mediterranean flair.

Pairing Suggestions

Roasted red pepper and hummus phyllo cups pair well with a variety of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes. Here are a few ideas to complete your appetizer spread:

  • Greek Salad: A fresh, tangy salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese is the perfect light companion to these phyllo cups.
  • Baba Ganoush: Serve a creamy, smoky baba ganoush dip on the side to complement the roasted red peppers in the phyllo cups.
  • Falafel Bites: Pair the phyllo cups with crispy falafel bites for a well-rounded, flavor-packed spread.

Roasted red pepper and hummus phyllo cups are a perfect appetizer for any occasion, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures in every bite. With crispy phyllo dough, creamy hummus, and the bright, smoky taste of roasted red peppers, these cups are not only delicious but also beautiful to serve. Plus, their ease of preparation makes them a go-to for parties, potlucks, or even a light snack at home.

By following this guide, you’ll have no trouble mastering this Mediterranean-inspired dish. Whether you stick to the classic roasted red pepper topping or try out different variations, your guests are sure to be impressed!