Healthy Appetizers Using Pita Bread
Pita bread is a type of Middle Eastern flat bread. It is an easy and versatile base for appetizers because it comes in different of sizes and has a firm texture that can hold up to toppings. Pita bread is available in both white and wheat versions and can be incorporated as a healthy alternative to traditional, heavier party fare.
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Baked Pita Chips
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One of the simplest casual appetizers is chips and dip; however, they aren't exactly friendly to the waistline. For a more nutritious alternative that still packs a lot of flavor, make your own pita chips to serve with dips. Pita chips are baked instead of fried and are even healthier if you use the whole wheat variety. Slice pita breads into eight equal wedges, brush with a light coating of olive oil (about 2 tbsp.) and sprinkle with your favorite seasonings. Bake them at 350°F until they are crisp and golden brown (approximately 15 minutes). Serve with a lighter vegetable-based dip rather than the standard dairy-based dips. Mash up a can of drained white beans with a drizzle of olive oil, salt and pepper for a quick homemade hummus. You could make things even simpler and serve the pita chips with salsa.
Individual Pita Pizza
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Pita breads are sturdy enough to substitute for traditional pizza crust. Use pita breads to make individual appetizer pizzas. Pizza may seem like an unhealthy choice, but if you leave out the excess cheese and greasy meat toppings, it can actually be nutritious. Spread a thin, even layer of tomato sauce over each pita bread. Add your favorite chopped vegetables, then sprinkle on a light layer of cheese. Pita pizzas also are easy to customize for different cuisine themes. If you want a Greek-themed pita pizza, skip the tomato sauce and add slices of red onions, black olives, grilled lamb and use feta cheese instead of mozzarella. To keep it healthy, just go light on the cheese and meat toppings on whatever pizza varieties you choose.
Crostini
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Crostini is an elegant appetizer that is not usually diet-friendly. It is typically made from toasted, sliced French bread drizzled with olive oil, and can be topped with just about any cheese, chopped meat or vegetable mixture. Make your own healthy version of crostini with pita bread. Brush pita breads lightly with olive oil, then grill for about two minutes per side. Slice each grilled pita into fourths. Skip the meat toppings; instead grill or sauté chopped mushrooms. Mix the mushrooms with chopped tomatoes and goat cheese to form a firm mixture, then slather it across each grilled pita slice. You can use any vegetable and cheese combination. You'll get the elegance and taste of crostini without all the calories.
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