Olives & Pita Chips Recipe

If you’re craving a delightful snack or a show-stopping appetizer, Olives & Pita Chips bring the perfect Mediterranean vibe to your table. This Greek-inspired board bursts with colorful, fresh ingredients and a heavenly hot honey feta that’s warm, creamy, and just the right hint of sweet and spicy. Imagine biting into crispy pita chips paired with briny olives and luscious roasted peppers, all complemented by that oozy, flavorful feta—a combination that’s simply irresistible for gatherings or quiet indulgence alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step toward crafting this impressive appetizer board. Each element brings its own magic, whether it’s the rich creaminess of feta, the crunch of pita chips, or the bright pop of fresh vegetables that make the dish balanced and inviting.

• Feta cheese (7–8 oz / 200g): The star of the show, providing a tangy, salty base for the hot honey topping.
• Honey (2 tbsp): Adds a natural sweetness that beautifully contrasts the feta’s saltiness.
• Red pepper flakes (½ tsp): Offers a gentle heat that awakens the palate without overpowering.
• Fresh thyme leaves (1 tsp): Brings a subtle herbaceous note that lifts the whole dish.
• Olive oil (1 tbsp): Enhances richness and helps everything meld together smoothly.
• Kalamata olives (1 cup): Classic purple olives that contribute depth and a bold briny punch.
• Green olives (½ cup): Provide a milder, crisper olive flavor for balance.
• Roasted red peppers (½ cup): Add sweetness and vibrant color, making the board visually stunning.
• Cherry tomatoes (½ cup): Juicy and bright, they bring freshness and a burst of natural acidity.
• Cucumber (½, sliced): Cool, crisp slices that refresh the palate between bites.
• Pickled red onions (¼ cup): A tangy, slightly sour element that cuts through the richness wonderfully.
• Tzatziki (1 cup, optional): A creamy yogurt and cucumber dip that complements olives & pita chips perfectly.
• Hummus (1 cup, optional): Adds a nutty, rich dip to round out the Mediterranean flavors.
• Pita chips (2 cups): Crunchy and sturdy for scooping up all the delicious toppings.
• Warm pita breads (4, sliced): Soft and pillowy, ideal for variety alongside the chips.
• Toasted almonds or pistachios (½ cup): Add a satisfying nutty crunch and a gorgeous finishing touch.

How to Make Olives & Pita Chips

Step 1: Prepare the Hot Honey Feta

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the block of feta in a small baking dish and gently drizzle it with olive oil and honey—the combination will melt into a luscious glaze as it bakes. Sprinkle on red pepper flakes to introduce a subtle kick, followed by fresh thyme leaves for an herbaceous aroma. Bake for about 12 to 15 minutes until the feta is warm and slightly softened, transforming it into a gooey, irresistible centerpiece.

Step 2: Set Up the Board Base

While the feta bakes, arrange small bowls of tzatziki and hummus on a large serving board, if you’re including these dips. Position the baked hot honey feta right on the board—its warm, creamy texture will invite everyone to dig in.

Step 3: Arrange the Olives & Vegetables

Pour Kalamata and green olives into separate small bowls to keep their flavors distinct and easy to serve. Next, artistically place the roasted red peppers, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and pickled red onions around the board to add splashes of color and varying textures. This part lets you get creative and deck out your platter with inviting hues and fresh visual appeal.

Step 4: Add Bread & Crunch

Place the crunchy pita chips and warm sliced pita bread around the board, making sure there’s enough for everyone to grab. Sprinkle toasted almonds or pistachios across the edges to offer a nutty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft breads and creamy dips.

Step 5: Finish & Serve

For the finishing touch, scatter a few more fresh thyme leaves or add a delicate drizzle of honey over the feta to refresh its sweetness. Serve immediately so guests can enjoy the feta at its warm, gooey best alongside the flavorful olives & pita chips for a truly memorable experience.

How to Serve Olives & Pita Chips

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh thyme or oregano adds a fragrant herbal note that pairs perfectly with the olives & pita chips. If you want an extra hint of brightness, a squeeze of lemon or some finely chopped fresh parsley scattered over the top can amplify the fresh Mediterranean vibe effortlessly.

Side Dishes

This board shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing drinks like sparkling water with lemon or a chilled white wine. For a heartier spread, add a Greek salad or grilled meat skewers alongside to round out the meal with a variety of textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving olives & pita chips on a rustic wooden board or a colorful ceramic platter to elevate presentation. Layer the vegetables and dips in small, mismatched bowls for an inviting, casual feel. For parties, label each item or offer toothpicks and small plates so guests can easily explore different flavor combinations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover olives, dips, and vegetables in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The olives & pita chips can stay fresh for up to 3 days if kept separate from any moisture to maintain their crunch. Keep the baked feta covered tightly with plastic wrap to preserve its flavor and texture.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t ideal for the pita chips or olives since it can alter their texture and flavor upon thawing. However, you can freeze the feta block (without honey and toppings) if needed and prepare the hot honey topping fresh when ready to serve next time.

Reheating

Warm the leftover feta gently in a low oven or microwave just until soft and warmed through again; avoid overheating to maintain its creamy texture. Reheat pita chips lightly in the oven if they become stale or soft to restore crispness, but fresh is always best!

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?

Feta is perfect for this dish because of its salty tang and crumbly texture, but you can experiment with halloumi or goat cheese for a different flavor profile. Just adjust cooking times since some cheeses melt differently.

Are olives & pita chips suitable for vegans?

The olives and pita chips are vegan-friendly, but since feta is a dairy product, this recipe isn’t vegan as written. You could substitute with a vegan cheese alternative if you want to keep it plant-based.

How spicy is the hot honey feta?

The red pepper flakes add a mild warmth, but it’s not overly spicy. You can adjust the amount depending on your heat preference to make it gently tingling or more pronounced.

Can I prepare this appetizer board in advance?

Yes, prepare the vegetables, olives, dips, and pita chips ahead of time, but bake the feta just before serving to keep it warm and melty. Then assemble everything quickly for the freshest presentation.

What’s the best way to eat olives & pita chips together?

Use the pita chips to scoop up a little bit of feta or dip into the hummus, then enjoy with a couple of olives for bursts of briny flavor that create a perfectly balanced bite every time.

Final Thoughts

Olives & Pita Chips create an effortlessly stunning appetizer that’s bursting with flavor, texture, and Mediterranean charm. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply treating yourself, this board brings joy and satisfaction in every bite. Don’t hesitate—gather your ingredients and dive into this deliciously warm and welcoming Greek-inspired snack experience!