Olives & Pita Chips Recipe

If you’re craving a delightful, crowd-pleasing snack that brings together bold flavors and irresistible textures, look no further than Olives & Pita Chips. This vibrant Greek-inspired appetizer board features creamy hot honey feta, a colorful mix of olives and pickled delights, fresh crisp vegetables, and crunchy pita chips that make every bite a celebration. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, this combination offers an inviting mix of sweet, spicy, salty, and tangy notes that is sure to become one of your go-to favorites.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient here is simple yet essential, contributing unique flavors and textures that elevate this dish from ordinary to unforgettable. From creamy feta softened with warm honey and spice, to the crunchy, satisfying pita chips, every component plays an important role on this vibrant board.

• 8 oz block feta cheese: The star of the dish, creamy and tangy, perfect for softening and soaking up honey.
• 3 tbsp honey: Adds just the right amount of natural sweetness to balance the feta’s saltiness.
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes: Infuses a gentle heat that contrasts beautifully with the honey.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: Drizzled on the feta to keep it luscious and rich as it bakes.
• 1 tsp fresh thyme (optional): Adds an herby brightness that complements the other flavors.
• 1 cup mixed Greek olives (kalamata & green): Brings a salty, briny punch with a variety of textures.
• ½ cup marinated artichoke hearts: Tender and slightly tangy, they add complexity and interest.
• ½ cup pickled red onions: Adds a zingy sweet-tart flavor and vibrant color contrast.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes: Juicy bursts of freshness to lighten the mix.
• 1 cup sliced cucumber: Cool and crisp, balancing the richer flavors on the board.
• ½ cup sliced red bell pepper: Sweet and crunchy, adding a pop of red for visual appeal.
• Fresh parsley for garnish: A final fresh herbaceous note that ties everything together.
• Lemon wedges: To squeeze over for added brightness and acidity.
• 1½ cups pita chips: Crunchy and perfect for scooping, the essential crunchy partner to olives and feta.
• 2–3 warm pita breads, sliced: Soft dippers for a different texture contrast.
• ¼ cup roasted almonds or walnuts: Adds a nutty crunch that complements the board’s flavors.

How to Make Olives & Pita Chips

Step 1: Prepare the Hot Honey

Start by gently warming the honey and crushed red pepper flakes over low heat in a small saucepan for about 2 to 3 minutes. This delicate warming infuses the honey with a subtle spicy kick that perfectly balances its natural sweetness. Be careful not to overheat, as you want to keep the honey smooth and silky for drizzling.

Step 2: Warm the Feta

Place your block of feta into a small oven-safe dish, drizzle it evenly with olive oil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 12 minutes. This step softens the feta just enough so it stays intact but becomes wonderfully creamy and easy to spread. The warm, silky texture of the feta is integral to the appeal of this dish.

Step 3: Assemble the Hot Honey Feta

Remove the feta from the oven and immediately drizzle it with the warm hot honey mixture, allowing the spicy-sweet honey to seep into the cheese’s nooks and crannies. If you have fresh thyme on hand, sprinkle some over for a fragrant, herbal note that ties everything together beautifully.

Step 4: Arrange the Olives & Pita Chips Board

Choose a large serving board or platter to create a visually stunning spread. Place the hot honey feta prominently in the center. Surround it with small bowls filled with mixed Greek olives, marinated artichokes, and pickled red onions. Then, artfully arrange fresh cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red bell pepper strips, crunchy pita chips, warm pita slices, and roasted nuts around the board. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a burst of color and brightness.

How to Serve Olives & Pita Chips

Garnishes

Fresh parsley and lemon wedges aren’t just for show! Parsley adds a lovely herbal freshness that brightens your palate after each bite, while squeezing lemon over the board’s components introduces a zesty acidity that balances the richness of the feta and olives.

Side Dishes

Olives & Pita Chips work wonderfully alongside simple Greek salads, grilled vegetables, or even a chilled glass of white wine for a light Mediterranean meal. These sides continue the fresh, vibrant flavor theme without overwhelming the star elements on the board.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the pita chips in small bowls or stacked beside the board for easy sharing. You could also present the hot honey feta in individual ramekins for a personal touch. For added flair, include colorful edible flowers or scatter crushed pistachios for extra crunch and visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Olives & Pita Chips components in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The feta with honey is best stored separately in a small dish to preserve its creamy texture. Olives and pickled vegetables tend to hold up well but are best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days.

Freezing

While fresh pita chips are best enjoyed crisp and won’t freeze well, you can freeze the block of feta (without honey) if you want to prepare it in advance. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before warming up. Olives and fresh veggies don’t freeze well due to texture changes.

Reheating

Rewarm the feta gently in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes until soft again. Avoid microwave reheating to preserve texture. Pita chips are best served fresh but can be crisped slightly in the oven if they soften on storage.

FAQs

Can I use different types of olives for this dish?

Absolutely! Mixed Greek olives like kalamata and green are classic here, but feel free to experiment with other varieties like Castelvetrano or oil-cured olives to suit your taste.

What if I don’t like spicy foods, can I leave out the red pepper flakes?

Yes, you can omit the crushed red pepper flakes to keep the dish mild. The honey and feta combo will still be wonderfully flavorful without the heat.

Are store-bought pita chips okay to use?

Definitely! If you’re short on time, good-quality store-bought pita chips work perfectly. Just look for ones with minimal additives and a nice crunch.

Can I make this board vegan?

While the feta is central to the dish’s character, you could substitute with a plant-based cheese and use agave or maple syrup instead of honey to create a vegan-friendly version.

How long does the Olives & Pita Chips board last once assembled?

It’s best enjoyed fresh for the full crunchy and creamy experience. If needed, the components can be assembled a few hours ahead and refrigerated, but try to keep the pita chips separate until serving to prevent sogginess.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the combination of Olives & Pita Chips paired with warm, sweet-spicy honey feta and fresh vibrant veggies. It’s a dish designed for sharing, for laughter, and for savoring every bite. I can’t wait for you to try this irresistible appetizer board and make it a regular star at your gatherings — trust me, it’s as fun to make as it is to eat!