Olives & Pita Chips Recipe

If you’re looking to create a vibrant and irresistible snack that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any gathering, this Greek Appetizer Board featuring Olives & Pita Chips is an absolute winner. The mix of salty kalamata and green olives, fresh crunchy veggies, creamy tzatziki and hummus, and the star of the show—warm, melting hot honey feta—creates a harmonious medley that’s hearty, fresh, and downright addicting. With every bite, you’ll enjoy a delightful contrast of textures and tastes that make this board perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying on your own as a satisfying treat.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this stunning Greek appetizer board is refreshingly straightforward, yet every ingredient plays a crucial role in balancing the flavors and textures. Each component—from the creamy feta to the crisp pita chips—builds a symphony of taste and makes the whole experience feel truly special.

• 8 oz block feta cheese: The creamy, slightly tangy base that becomes irresistible when warmed with honey and chili.
• 3 tbsp honey: Adds a luscious sweetness that perfectly compliments the salty feta.
• 1/4 tsp red chili flakes: Provides a gentle kick of heat to balance the sweetness of the honey.
• 1 tsp olive oil: Helps to bring together the honey and chili flavors while adding richness.
• Fresh thyme leaves (optional): A lovely herbal note to brighten the hot honey feta.
• 1 cup kalamata olives: These deep purple olives bring a fruity saltiness essential to a true Greek-style board.
• 1 cup green olives: Their slightly firmer texture adds contrast to the kalamata olives and feta.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes: Juicy pops of color and freshness that balance the richer elements.
• 1 cucumber, sliced: Crisp, cool slices that refresh and crunch with every bite.
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced: Adds zesty sharpness and a pop of vibrant color.
• 1/2 cup roasted red peppers: Sweet, smoky flavor that adds depth to the board.
• 1 cup hummus: Creamy and nutty, it’s perfect for dipping or spreading on pita chips.
• 1 cup tzatziki: Cool, garlicky yogurt sauce that pairs beautifully with the olives and feta.
• 2 cups pita chips or warm pita wedges: Crunchy and sturdy, they’re the ultimate vehicles for scooping up all the delicious toppings.
• Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish and a burst of green color.

How to Make Olives & Pita Chips

Step 1: Prepare the Hot Honey Feta

First, get that intoxicating hot honey feta going—it’s the heart of this appetizer board. Place your block of feta into a small oven-safe dish where it will warm and soften to perfection. Then, gently warm the honey, red chili flakes, and olive oil on the stovetop until fragrant; this aromatic mixture will soak into the feta, creating an irresistible balance of sweet, spicy, and savory. Pour it all over the cheese and pop it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 to 12 minutes. When the feta is slightly softened and warm, it’s ready. Optional fresh thyme leaves sprinkled on top elevate the flavors even further with their lovely herbal note.

Step 2: Arrange the Board

Now comes the fun and artful part—laying out the board. Place your warm hot honey feta right in the center; it’s the star centerpiece that everyone will gravitate toward. Surround it with the beautiful kalamata and green olives, vibrant cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber slices, thinly sliced red onion, and sweet roasted red peppers in separate clusters to keep each flavor distinct but inviting. Add generous scoops of hummus and tzatziki, creating little dips of creamy goodness. Finally, fill all the spaces with those crunchy, golden pita chips or warm pita wedges to complete the ensemble. It’s not only tasty but visually stunning.

Step 3: Garnish and Serve

To finish your masterpiece, sprinkle fresh parsley generously over the entire board for a burst of color and herbaceous brightness. Serve immediately while the feta is still warm and creamy, inviting everyone to dig in and enjoy the perfect harmony of Olives & Pita Chips alongside the other fresh and flavorful ingredients.

How to Serve Olives & Pita Chips

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley isn’t just decoration—it adds a fresh, slightly peppery note that lightens the richness of the hot honey feta and balances the brininess of the olives. For a finishing touch, you can also add a few lemon wedges around the board. A gentle squeeze of lemon over the olives and veggies adds an uplifting brightness that enhances every bite.

Side Dishes

This appetizer board paired with Olives & Pita Chips is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate your meal with some light side dishes. A simple Greek salad, grilled vegetable skewers, or even a chilled white wine like a crisp Sauvignon Blanc make perfect companions. These sides help to round out the Mediterranean experience without overwhelming the bold flavors on your board.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation is everything when it comes to an appetizer board. For a more casual vibe, serve your Olives & Pita Chips in colorful bowls and plates arranged on a rustic wooden board. You might also try layering the pita chips in a tall glass for easy grabbing or letting guests assemble their own pita “tacos” filled with feta, olives, and toppings. The combination of colors and textures provides a feast for the eyes as much as the palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, gather all the ingredients and store them separately in airtight containers. Keep the hot honey feta refrigerated to maintain its texture, and store the pita chips in a dry place to keep them crispy. Vegetables and dips like hummus and tzatziki will also last a few days if kept chilled.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this board as olives, fresh vegetables, and pita chips will lose their texture and freshness. However, if you want to freeze feta, you can freeze it separately, though it will become a bit crumbly once thawed. For the best experience, prepare this board fresh.

Reheating

To enjoy any leftover hot honey feta, gently reheat it in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture. The olives, pita chips, and fresh components are best served at room temperature or chilled as originally prepared.

FAQs

Can I use different types of olives for this board?

Absolutely! While kalamata and green olives provide classic contrasts of flavor and texture, feel free to experiment with other varieties like Castelvetrano or stuffed olives to keep things interesting and suit your taste.

Is it possible to make the hot honey feta spicy or milder?

Yes! Adjust the red chili flakes to increase or decrease the heat. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the flakes, or for more spice, add a pinch more. You can also add a drizzle of hot sauce after baking for an extra kick.

Can I substitute pita chips with another type of bread?

Definitely. Warm pita wedges are a great alternative, and for a crunchier option, crostini or toasted flatbreads work well too. Just choose something sturdy enough for dipping and scooping.

How long does this appetizer board stay fresh once assembled?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, within 2 hours of assembling. The warm feta is at its peak right off the oven, and pita chips stay crisp longest when served promptly. If necessary, cover and refrigerate leftovers, but some textures may soften.

Can I prepare the components in advance to save time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the hot honey feta earlier in the day and keep it covered in the fridge, then warm it just before serving. Chop and arrange the veggies in advance and keep them refrigerated. Assemble the board shortly before guests arrive for the freshest presentation.

Final Thoughts

This Olives & Pita Chips appetizer board is a warm hug on a plate—full of rich, fresh, and lively Mediterranean flavors that come together so effortlessly. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is guaranteed to impress and satisfy. Gather your favorite olives, crisp pita chips, and that heavenly hot honey feta, and get ready to share something truly special. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love just like I did!