These Mediterranean Hummus Nachos are a fun twist on a classic! Crispy tortilla chips are topped with creamy hummus, fresh veggies, and a sprinkle of olives for that perfect bite.
Who knew nachos could be healthy and tasty? I love serving them at parties; they disappear in seconds! Great for snack time or a light meal—everyone loves dipping and crunching!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pita Chips: Pita chips add a crunchy base for the nachos. You can swap them for tortilla chips or even baked veggie chips for a healthier option. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own pita chips by baking pita bread with a drizzle of olive oil.
Hummus: Store-bought hummus is a great time-saver, but homemade is often creamier and more flavorful. If you’re looking for a twist, try flavored hummus like roasted red pepper or garlic. You can also substitute with bean dips like white bean or black bean spread.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes provide a burst of color and sweetness. If they aren’t in season, feel free to use sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor or even canned diced tomatoes (just drain them well) if fresh ones are unavailable.
Kalamata Olives: These olives add a lovely briny punch. If you don’t have them, green olives or black olives can work. You can also skip them entirely for a milder taste.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a creamy tanginess that complements the dish. If you prefer, you can substitute with goat cheese or feta-style vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.
How Can I Make Delicious Sautéed Spinach?
Sautéed spinach adds a nice warm element and boosts the nutritional value of your nachos. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by washing the spinach thoroughly to remove any dirt. Pat it dry gently with a paper towel.
- Heat about 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the spinach and a pinch of salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes until it wilts down.
- Toss in fresh pepper to taste as you sauté it. Remove from heat once the leaves are tender and bright green.
This method keeps the spinach fresh and vibrant, enhancing both flavor and nutrition for your nachos!
How to Make Mediterranean Hummus Nachos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Nachos:
- 1 package pita chips (about 8 ounces)
- 1 cup hummus (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup fresh spinach, sautéed
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
For the Drizzle:
- 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or mint, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and around 10-12 minutes of baking time. All in all, you’ll have these tasty Mediterranean Nachos ready in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick snack or a fun appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is important to make sure your nachos heat evenly and get that perfect warm crunch!
2. Prepare the Pita Chips:
Take a large baking sheet and spread the pita chips out evenly. Make sure they don’t overlap too much so they can get nice and crispy in the oven.
3. Season the Spinach:
In a bowl, mix your sautéed spinach with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir until the spinach is well coated. Then, evenly distribute this mixture over the pita chips. This will add a flavorful punch!
4. Add the Hummus:
Using a spoon, dollop generous amounts of hummus over the chips. Feel free to spread it out a bit with the back of the spoon. Hummus adds creaminess that’s just delicious!
5. Top with Fresh Ingredients:
Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced kalamata olives, diced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese all over the nachos. This gives it a vibrant and fresh Mediterranean flair!
6. Bake the Nachos:
Now, place your baking sheet in the oven and bake the nachos for about 10-12 minutes. You want them warm and the feta a little softened—a treat for your taste buds!
7. Drizzle the Tzatziki:
Once you take the nachos out of the oven, drizzle tzatziki sauce (or Greek yogurt) over the top. This adds a cool, creamy finish that balances all the flavors perfectly.
8. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, garnish your nachos with fresh parsley or mint for a touch of freshness and color. Serve them immediately, and enjoy your delightful Mediterranean Hummus Nachos!
Can I Use Different Types of Chips for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pita chips give a wonderful Mediterranean vibe, you can use tortilla chips, veggie chips, or even baked won ton wrappers for added crunch. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as different chips may cook at varying rates!
How to Make This Recipe Vegetarian/Vegan-Friendly?
This recipe is mostly vegetarian already! To make it vegan, simply swap the feta cheese for a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free tzatziki or omit the tzatziki entirely. You can also replace the olive oil with a light drizzle of vegan mayonnaise for extra creaminess.
Can I Prepare Some Ingredients in Advance?
Definitely! You can chop the vegetables, prepare the sautéed spinach, and make homemade hummus a day ahead. Just store everything in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, assemble the nachos and bake!
How to Store Leftover Nachos?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The chips may get a bit soggy, so consider serving the topping separately next time if you anticipate leftovers. To reheat, place in the oven for a few minutes until warm again!
