– **Title**: Loaded Hummus Pitas
– **Ingredients**:
– 4 whole wheat pita breads
– 1 1/2 cups hummus (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup mixed greens (spinach, arugula, etc.)
– 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: olives, avocado slices, or your choice of proteins (like grilled chicken or chickpeas)
– **Instructions**:
1. Begin by preparing your ingredients: rinse and chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and mixed greens. Slice the roasted red peppers, if not pre-sliced.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create a dressing.
3. Slice each pita in half to create pockets.
4. Spread a generous amount of hummus inside each pita pocket.
5. Layer the mixed greens, followed by cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, and roasted red peppers into the pita.
6. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley on top of the loaded ingredients.
7. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the filled pitas.
8. Optionally add olives, avocado slices, or any proteins if you are using them.
9. Serve immediately, or wrap in foil and pack for lunch.
Enjoy your healthy and delicious loaded hummus pitas!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pita Bread: These are the base for your loaded hummus. If you can’t find pita, try using flatbreads or naan as a fun twist.
Hummus: Classic chickpea hummus works great, but feel free to try flavors like roasted red pepper or garlic. If you’re avoiding chickpeas, consider using a bean dip or avocado spread instead.
Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes and cucumbers add freshness. For variety, you could swap in bell peppers or radishes. Adjust according to what’s in season or what’s in your fridge!
Olives: Black and green olives bring saltiness. If you prefer, use just one type or replace them with capers for a different flavor.
Feta Cheese: It adds creaminess and tang. You can use goat cheese or a dairy-free cheese if you need a substitute.
How Do I Make Sure My Pitas are Loaded Evenly?
To ensure each pita is flavorful and balanced, follow these tips:
- Start with a generous layer of hummus to create a tasty base; it keeps everything together.
- Distribute your veggies evenly. This way, every bite has a nice mix of textures and flavors.
- Layer toppings thoughtfully so they don’t spill off the sides.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients and find what combinations you love the most! Enjoy making your pitas your own!
How to Make Loaded Hummus Pitas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pitas:
- 4 pita breads
- 1 cup hummus
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup green olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
For Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and healthy meal option that’s perfect for lunch or a snack, and you don’t need any cooking time—just prep and assemble!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Ingredients:
Begin by washing and cutting your fresh vegetables. Dice the cucumber into small pieces, halve the cherry tomatoes, and slice the black and green olives. Don’t forget to finely chop the red onion and parsley. These fresh ingredients will add flavor and texture to your pitas!
2. Assemble the Pitas:
Next, lay out the pita breads on a large platter or individual plates. This is where all your delicious toppings will go, so make sure they’re ready for action!
3. Add the Hummus:
Spread a generous layer of hummus over each pita. Use a spoon or a spatula to cover the pita completely with hummus, creating a creamy base for your toppings.
4. Layer the Toppings:
Start adding your prepped toppings! Evenly distribute the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and both types of sliced olives over the hummus-covered pitas. Then sprinkle on the chopped red onion for an extra kick.
5. Finish with Feta:
Now it’s time for the feta cheese! Crumble it over the top of the pitas. This will add a lovely salty flavor that pairs perfectly with the other toppings.
6. Drizzle and Season:
Take a moment to drizzle some olive oil over the pitas and season them with salt and pepper to your liking. This little step makes a big difference in flavor!
7. Garnish and Serve:
For a fresh touch, garnish your pitas with the chopped parsley. This will not only make your meal look beautiful but will also add some extra flavor. Serve the loaded hummus pitas immediately as a light meal or snack. If you have leftovers, you can refrigerate them until you’re ready to eat!
Enjoy your delicious Loaded Hummus Pitas!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread Instead of Pita?
Absolutely! If you don’t have pita bread, you can use flatbreads, naan, or even slices of whole grain or sourdough bread. Just remember to adjust the amount of hummus and toppings based on the size of your bread choice!
Can I Make This Hummus Pita Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegan by omitting the feta cheese or replacing it with a vegan cheese alternative. You can also use homemade or store-bought vegan hummus to ensure the entire dish is plant-based!
How to Store Leftover Loaded Hummus Pitas?
If you have any leftovers, it’s best to store the toppings and hummus separately from the pita bread. Keep them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to enjoy, simply assemble again for a fresh taste!
Can I Prepare These Hummus Pitas in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare all your ingredients and assemble the pitas a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until serving. However, for the best texture, it’s best to add the olive oil and seasonings right before serving.
