Greek/Mediterranean Layered Dip

This is a WONDERFUL appetizer when you're looking for something fresh --or a change from the traditional 7-layer Mexican dip. You can buy hummus at any grocery store these days, or you can make your own. Here's my new favorite hummus recipe (in a previous post). I had read about something like this in a magazine years ago but I didn't have a recipe--just used whatever I had on hand, so ingredients are approximate. I think you guys will really LOVE it!

GREEK/MEDITERRANEAN LAYERED DIP

Should serve about 6-8 people

2 cups hummus

1/2-/4 cup Feta cheese, crumbled (about 4 oz.-I used a reduced-fat version)

1/4 of a red onion, minced finely (you can use more if you want)

1 heaping cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

1/2 an English cucumber, diced (no need to peel)

5 oz of grape tomatoes, quartered (this is half of a 10-oz grocery store package)

1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp. dried oregano
2 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
Salt & pepper, to taste

To serve:
Pita chips (preferred) or bread rounds or Melba toast or crackers

Layer all ingredients through the Parmesan cheese in an 8 or 9 inch dish (round or square or rectangle--whatever you wish. I used an 8X8 glass casserole dish, but anything about that size would do). Sprinkle with oregano, drizzle with good-quality olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.

Serve chilled or at room temperature with pita chips or something hearty enough to withstand a hearty dip!