In the realm of Mediterranean cuisine, Greek Pita Spread, also known as Tirokafteri, emerges as a delectable dip that captivates taste buds with its vibrant flavors and creamy texture. This culinary masterpiece is a staple in Greek meze platters, often served as an appetizer or spread on pita bread, crackers, or vegetable crudités. Tirokafteri boasts a rich history, tracing its roots back to ancient Greece, where it was enjoyed as a savory spread. Today, it continues to be a cherished part of Greek cuisine, gracing tables at gatherings and celebrations.
This versatile dip is crafted from a harmonious blend of tangy feta cheese, roasted red peppers, garlic, and a touch of chili peppers, resulting in a symphony of flavors. The creaminess of the feta cheese pairs perfectly with the smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers, while garlic and chili peppers add a touch of zest and heat. Variations of Tirokafteri exist, some incorporating herbs like dill or parsley, while others add a dollop of yogurt or cream cheese for an even creamier texture.
In this culinary journey, we will embark on a delightful exploration of Greek Pita Spread, uncovering its delectable variations and providing step-by-step instructions to recreate this classic dish. From the traditional Tirokafteri to unique interpretations that incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and even spinach, these recipes will cater to every palate and preference. Prepare to tantalize your taste buds and immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Greek cuisine as we delve into the art of making Greek Pita Spread.
GREEK PITAS
I like to serve these when the gang's over for football games-they taste like gyros and the guys love them! You can prepare the meat and sauce ahead of time for added convenience. -Lisa Hockersmith, Bakersfield, California
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Lunch
Time 25m
Yield 6 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 14
Steps:
- In a small bowl, combine the yogurt, cucumber, dill and seasoned salt; cover and refrigerate for 6 hours or overnight. , Combine the oil, lemon juice, mustard, garlic, oregano and thyme in large bowl; add pork. Turn to coat; cover. Refrigerate for 6 hours or overnight, turning occasionally., Drain pork, discarding marinade. In a large skillet, stir-fry pork until browned, about 4 minutes. Stuff into pita halves; top with cucumber sauce, tomato and onion.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 362 calories, Fat 12g fat (4g saturated fat), Cholesterol 60mg cholesterol, Sodium 484mg sodium, Carbohydrate 35g carbohydrate (4g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 26g protein. Diabetic Exchanges
GREEK LAYERED DIP WITH PITA CHIPS
Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Line 1 or 2 baking sheets with foil. Cut the pita rounds into eighths. Split each piece in two and place on the prepared baking sheet(s), with the inside of the bread facing up. Spray with the olive oil cooking spray and sprinkle with 2 teaspoons of the Greek seasoning. Bake 7 to 10 minutes, or until golden.
- Meanwhile, in a large skillet, brown the ground lamb with the garlic salt and the remaining 2 teaspoons Greek seasoning. Drain and set aside. In a shallow 1 1/2-quart dish, spread the hummus on the bottom. Top with a layer of ground lamb, then the tzatziki. Layer with the lettuce, tomatoes, onion, olives and feta. Serve the dip at room temperature with pita chips.
PITA CRISPS WITH FETA-RADISH SPREAD
The thick consistency of Greek yogurt is ideal for this creamy, crunchy spread.
Provided by Martha Stewart
Categories Food & Cooking Appetizers
Time 30m
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Using 2 tablespoons oil, brush insides of pita rounds. Cut each round into 6 wedges. Arrange wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet, oiled sides up; toast until golden brown and crisp, 7 to 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, pulse feta, yogurt, lemon juice, and remaining 3 tablespoons oil in a food processor just until mixture is thick and spreadable, about 10 pulses. Transfer to a medium bowl, and stir in parsley and radishes. Serve with pita crisps.
GREEK BEEF PITAS
A local fast-food pita restaurant inspired me to make my own Greek-style sandwiches at home. Add olives if you like. -Nancy Sousley, Lafayette, Indiana
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Lunch
Time 25m
Yield 4 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- In a large skillet, cook beef, onion and garlic over medium heat 8-10 minutes or until beef is no longer pink and vegetables are tender, breaking up beef into crumbles; drain. Stir in oregano and 1/2 teaspoon salt., In a small bowl, mix yogurt, tomato, cucumber, dill and remaining salt. Spoon 3/4 cup beef mixture over each pita bread; top with 3 tablespoons yogurt sauce. If desired, top with additional tomatoes and cucumbers. Serve with remaining yogurt sauce.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 407 calories, Fat 11g fat (4g saturated fat), Cholesterol 74mg cholesterol, Sodium 851mg sodium, Carbohydrate 40g carbohydrate (5g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 34g protein.
GREEK LAYERED DIP WITH PITA CRISPS
Hummus, pita, feta cheese, olives--the ingredients in this gorgeous and surprisingly easy dip read like a textbook to fabulous Greek cuisine.
Provided by Betty Crocker Kitchens
Categories Appetizer
Time 20m
Yield 18
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- Heat oven to 350°F. Carefully split each pita bread into 2 rounds. Cut each round into 6 wedges; place on ungreased cookie sheets. Spray wedges lightly with cooking spray; sprinkle with garlic powder.
- Bake 5 to 7 minutes or until crisp and golden brown. Cool while making dip.
- Meanwhile, in 10-inch plate or pie pan, spread cream cheese spread. Drop small spoonfuls of hummus evenly over cream cheese; spread evenly. Top with remaining ingredients in order listed.
- Serve dip with pita crisps.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 120, Carbohydrate 9 g, Cholesterol 20 mg, Fat 1, Fiber 1 g, Protein 4 g, SaturatedFat 4 g, ServingSize 1 Serving, Sodium 240 mg, Sugar 1 g
GREEK SALAD PITAS
Veggie lovers, here's a full-flavored recipe just for you! This hearty, meatless pita is stuffed with plenty of chopped vegetables and savory Greek accents. -Alexis W. Worchesky-Lasek, West Friendship , Maryland
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Lunch
Time 20m
Yield 2 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- In a small bowl, combine the cucumber, red pepper, tomato, zucchini, feta cheese and olives. In another bowl, whisk the vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, salt and pepper. Pour over vegetables and toss to coat. Spoon into lettuce-lined pita halves.
Nutrition Facts :
Tips:
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- If you don't have a food processor, you can use a blender to make the spread.
- Taste the spread and adjust the seasonings to your liking.
- Serve the spread with pita bread, crackers, or vegetables.
- The spread can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion:
This Greek pita spread is a delicious and versatile appetizer or snack. It's easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences. Serve it with pita bread, crackers, or vegetables, and enjoy!
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