Toss cooked orzo with roasted peppers Recipe

If you’re looking to wow your guests with a flavorful, vibrant appetizer that’s as inviting as it is delicious, this Greek Appetizer Board featuring Olives & Pita Chips is an absolute must-try. Imagine warm, honey-drizzled feta paired with crispy, golden pita chips alongside a colorful medley of briny Kalamata and green olives plus juicy cherry tomatoes—each bite bursting with a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, salty, and fresh. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish transforms simple pantry staples into an irresistible spread that’s perfect for any gathering or cozy night in.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are refreshingly straightforward, but each one adds a unique layer of taste, texture, and color that makes the dish truly shine. From the creamy feta to the crisp pita chips, everything comes together effortlessly to create an inviting ensemble.

• 8 oz feta cheese, block: The star of the show, creamy and tangy, perfect for baking with honey.
• 2 tbsp honey: Adds natural sweetness and balances the feta’s saltiness beautifully.
• ¼ tsp red chili flakes: Provides just enough heat to elevate the flavor without overpowering.
• 1 tsp olive oil: Enhances richness and helps mellow the spices on the feta.
• 4 pita breads, cut into triangles: The canvas for your chips; crisp up beautifully when baked.
• 2–3 tbsp olive oil: Ensures the pita chips get golden and perfectly crunchy.
• ½ tsp salt: Just enough to season the pita chips and bring out the flavor of the olives.
• ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted: Classic Mediterranean flavor with a lovely briny bite.
• ½ cup green olives, pitted: Adds color contrast and a slightly milder olive flavor.
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Fresh and juicy, they balance the saltiness with natural sweetness.
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbaceous notes.
• Optional garnishes (roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, fresh herbs): Customize the board to your liking and add more Mediterranean flair.

How to Make Olives & Pita Chips

Step 1: Prepare the Pita Chips

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss the pita triangles with olive oil and salt until they are evenly coated—this step is crucial for that perfect crispy finish. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet to ensure they bake evenly. Slide them into the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and have a satisfying crunch. Keep an eye on them as they can go from golden to toasted pretty quickly.

Step 2: Make the Hot Honey Feta

Place the block of feta in a small oven-safe dish. Drizzle generously with honey, sprinkle on the red chili flakes for a touch of heat, and finish with a little olive oil to deepen the flavors. Bake this at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until the feta is warmed through and slightly softened but still holds its shape. The result is this luscious, gooey dip that’s both sweet and spicy—a definite crowd-pleaser!

Step 3: Assemble the Board

Grab a large serving platter and artfully arrange your baked hot honey feta, freshly baked pita chips, Kalamata and green olives, and halved cherry tomatoes. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for brightness and waltz in any optional garnishes you love like roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts. This is where your creativity and love for Mediterranean flavors really get to shine.

How to Serve Olives & Pita Chips

Garnishes

Adding vibrant garnishes like a few sprigs of fresh oregano, basil, or thyme can elevate your presentation and flavor profile by adding an herbal aroma that pairs beautifully with the warm feta and salty olives. Roasted red peppers and marinated artichoke hearts also bring extra layers of color and taste that make the spread irresistible.

Side Dishes

This appetizer board pairs wonderfully with light salads like a crisp cucumber and tomato salad or a zingy tabbouleh. For heartier meals, serve alongside grilled meats or seafood to introduce a Mediterranean theme that feels both rustic and elegant.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging the pita chips in little cups or small bowls for a bit of fun, or serve the hot honey feta straight in the baking dish for guests to dip right away. Layer different olive varieties and add nuts like toasted almonds or pistachios for crunch and contrast. Don’t be afraid to mix textures and colors—it’s all part of the charm of an Olives & Pita Chips tabletop feast!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the pita chips separately in an airtight container to keep their crunch, while you can refrigerate the hot honey feta and olives in covered containers. Keeping components apart ensures the chips don’t get soggy and everything stays as fresh as possible.

Freezing

While pita chips don’t freeze well due to their fragile texture, you can freeze the feta block without honey and chili flakes for up to two months. Defrost it slowly in the fridge and then add toppings before reheating just before serving to maintain that fresh, luscious dip experience.

Reheating

Rewarm the hot honey feta gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to get that melty texture back before serving. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can alter the texture unfavorably. Pita chips are best enjoyed fresh but can be lightly crisped back in a hot oven for a few minutes if they soften.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?

Feta is uniquely perfect here due to its tangy flavor and crumbly texture that softens beautifully when baked. However, you can experiment with halloumi or goat cheese for different but still delicious results.

How spicy is the hot honey feta?

The red chili flakes add a mild heat that complements the sweetness of the honey and saltiness of the feta, but you can adjust the amount to your heat preference from mild to more pronounced.

What types of olives work best for this board?

Kalamata and green olives are classic Mediterranean choices with contrasting flavors—Kalamata being rich and fruity and green olives milder and slightly tangy. Feel free to mix in other varieties for your perfect olive ensemble.

Can I make the pita chips ahead of time?

Yes! Pita chips can be baked a day ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature to keep their crunch for serving the next day.

What should I serve with this appetizer board for a complete meal?

This board pairs excellently with light sides like Greek salad or grilled vegetables, and also works beautifully as a starter to hearty Mediterranean mains such as grilled lamb or roasted chicken.

Final Thoughts

This Olives & Pita Chips board isn’t just food; it’s an experience. The warm, sweet-spicy feta, crunchy chips, and briny olives come together to create something magical that invites sharing and savored moments. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, this appetizer is sure to become a beloved favorite. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!