Description
Need a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen? Pita Pockets are your answer! These handheld delights are perfect for a busy lifestyle, offering endless filling possibilities—from protein-packed meats to fresh, crunchy veggies. Whether you need a fast lunch, a grab-and-go snack, or a light dinner, these pita pockets are satisfying, nutritious, and ridiculously easy to make.
Ingredients
For the Pita Bread (Optional – Homemade Version)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour)
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Filling (Customizable – Choose Your Favorite!)
Protein Options:
- 1 cup grilled chicken (cubed or sliced)
- 1 cup falafel (for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup shredded beef or lamb
- 1 cup chickpeas (roasted with spices)
Vegetables & Toppings:
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- ½ cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup tomatoes, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Sauce Options:
- ½ cup hummus
- ½ cup tzatziki sauce
- ½ cup yogurt mixed with lemon juice and garlic
- ¼ cup tahini sauce
Extras (Optional):
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 teaspoon sumac or paprika (for garnish)
Instructions
Making the Pita Bread (If Using Homemade)
-
Activate the Yeast:
- In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
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Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and olive oil. Add the yeast mixture and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth.
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Let It Rise:
- Cover the dough and let it rest for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
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Shape the Pitas:
- Divide the dough into small balls and roll them into ¼-inch thick circles.
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Bake the Pita Bread:
- Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C) and bake the pitas for 3-5 minutes until they puff up. Let cool before slicing.
Assembling the Pita Pockets
-
Warm the Pitas:
- If using store-bought pitas, warm them in the oven or on a stovetop for 30 seconds per side to make them soft and flexible.
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Cut and Open the Pockets:
- Use a sharp knife to carefully slice the top off each pita or cut in half to create two smaller pockets.
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Spread the Base Sauce:
- Add hummus, tzatziki, or yogurt sauce inside the pita to enhance flavor and prevent sogginess.
-
Layer the Fillings:
- Start with your protein (chicken, falafel, beef, or chickpeas), followed by fresh vegetables like lettuce, cucumber, and tomatoes.
-
Add Toppings & Garnishes:
- Sprinkle feta cheese, avocado slices, and fresh parsley or cilantro.
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Finish with Extra Sauce:
- Drizzle more sauce on top and season with sumac or paprika for extra flavor.
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Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve immediately with a side of fresh salad, fries, or soup.
Notes
-
Make-Ahead Option:
- Prepped fillings can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just assemble fresh when ready to eat.
-
Vegan Version:
- Replace meat with falafel or roasted chickpeas, and use dairy-free tzatziki or hummus as your sauce.
-
Spice It Up:
- Add a dash of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños for an extra kick!
-
Storage Tips:
- Store pita pockets in an airtight container and warm before serving for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 min (30 min if making homemade pita)
- Cook Time: 10 min
- Category: lunch
- Cuisine: Mediterranean / Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Serves 4 people
- Calories: 400
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 25g