CAVA Pita Chips Recipe

Chef Nora Benson

2 Jul, 2023

Crispy and Flavorful Cava Pita Chips: A Homemade Snack Delight

Cava Pita Chips

Publisher: CAVA
Cuisine: Mediterranean / Middle Eastern
Category: Appetizer, Snack
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 24 calories

About this recipe

Cava pita chips are a delightful and crispy snack that you can easily make at home. These chips are inspired by the flavors of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, specifically those found at Cava, a popular restaurant chain known for its fresh and flavorful dishes.

To make Cava pita chips, you start with pita bread rounds. You can find these at your local grocery store or make your own if you're feeling adventurous.

Pita bread is a soft, round bread that is commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine. It has a pocket-like structure that makes it perfect for turning into chips.

To transform the pita bread into chips, you simply cut it into triangles or any other desired shape. You can also separate the two layers of each pita round to create thinner and extra crispy chips. The choice is yours!

Once you have your pita triangles ready, it's time to add flavor. Drizzle a generous amount of olive oil over the pita chips, making sure to coat each one evenly. Olive oil adds a delicious richness and helps the chips become crispy during baking.

Now it's time to season the chips. Sprinkle them with salt and pepper to taste. You can also get creative and add other herbs and spices that you enjoy.

Popular options include garlic powder, paprika, dried herbs like oregano or thyme, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The seasonings will infuse the chips with wonderful flavors that complement the Mediterranean-inspired theme.

Next, pop the seasoned pita chips into a preheated oven and let them bake for about 10-15 minutes. Keep a close eye on them, as they can quickly go from golden brown and crispy to burned. You want them to be perfectly crunchy and golden, so adjust the baking time as needed.

Once they're done, take the pita chips out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. As they cool, they will become even crispier, making every bite a satisfying crunch.

Now you're ready to enjoy your homemade Cava pita chips! Serve them with your favorite dips, such as creamy hummus, refreshing tzatziki, or smoky baba ganoush. The combination of the crunchy chips and flavorful dips creates a delicious contrast that will keep you coming back for more.

Recipe origin and background

The exact origin or background of the specific recipe for Cava pita chips is not clear. However, we can trace the inspiration for these chips to Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, which have a rich culinary history.

Pita bread, the main ingredient in pita chips, has been a staple in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean regions for centuries. It has a long history and is enjoyed in various forms, such as in sandwiches, as a side dish, or as a base for dips and spreads.

Pita chips, including variations like Cava pita chips, gained popularity as a delicious snack in recent years. They are often served alongside Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes or enjoyed on their own with various dips.

Cava, the restaurant chain, is known for its focus on fresh and vibrant Mediterranean flavors. While they offer a wide range of dishes, their pita chips have become particularly popular. It's likely that the Cava pita chips recipe was developed by their culinary team to accompany their menu items and provide a tasty and complementary snack option.

The recipe for Cava pita chips, as shared here, is a homemade version that aims to replicate the flavors and textures of the chips served at Cava. It combines the simplicity of pita bread, the richness of olive oil, and the seasoning of herbs and spices to create a crunchy and flavorful snack that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.

Why try this Cava Pita Chips recipe?

Delicious Flavor: Cava pita chips are packed with delicious flavors. The combination of crispy pita bread, rich olive oil, and savory seasonings creates a delightful taste experience. The chips are seasoned to perfection, offering a balance of savory, herbaceous, and sometimes spicy notes that make them incredibly satisfying.
Easy to Make: The recipe for Cava pita chips is straightforward and simple. With just a few ingredients and basic preparation steps, you can easily whip up a batch of homemade chips. It requires minimal cooking skills or kitchen experience, making it accessible to both novice and experienced home cooks.
Customizable Seasonings: One of the great things about making your own pita chips is the ability to customize the seasonings to your liking. You can experiment with different herbs, spices, and even cheeses to create unique flavor profiles that suit your preferences. This allows you to tailor the taste of the chips to your individual palate.
Healthier Alternative: Homemade Cava pita chips can be a healthier alternative to store-bought potato chips or other processed snacks. Pita bread is generally lower in calories and fat compared to traditional potato chips. By baking the chips instead of frying them, you reduce the amount of oil used, making them a lighter option. Plus, you have control over the quality and quantity of ingredients, including using healthier oils and reducing the amount of salt if desired.
Versatility: Cava pita chips are incredibly versatile. They can be enjoyed on their own as a snack or served alongside various dips, such as hummus, tzatziki, or baba ganoush. They also pair well with other Mediterranean-inspired dishes like Greek salads or as a side for soups and stews. Their crispiness and flavor make them a great accompaniment to a wide range of meals or a standalone treat.
Impress Your Guests: If you're hosting a gathering or a party, serving homemade Cava pita chips can impress your guests. They offer a unique and flavorful twist on traditional chips, showcasing your culinary skills and attention to detail. Your friends and family will appreciate the homemade touch and the opportunity to enjoy a tasty and wholesome snack.

So, why not give the Cava pita chips recipe a try? With its delicious flavors, simplicity, and versatility, it's a fantastic way to enjoy a Mediterranean-inspired snack that you can make and savor right in your own home.

What does Cava Pita Chips taste like?

Cava pita chips have a delicious and satisfying taste that combines elements of crispiness, richness, and flavorful seasonings. The taste is reminiscent of the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors that inspire them.

The pita chips have a crispy texture with a slight crunch, making each bite enjoyable. They are typically thin and have a lightness to them, allowing you to appreciate the crunch without feeling overly heavy.

The use of olive oil in the recipe adds a delightful richness to the chips. Olive oil brings its distinct fruity and slightly peppery flavor, enhancing the overall taste experience. It also helps to create a golden brown and crispy exterior during baking.

The seasoning of the pita chips can vary based on personal preference and the choice of herbs and spices used. Common seasonings include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, among others. These seasonings infuse the chips with savory, aromatic, and sometimes mildly spicy notes, elevating their taste profile.

When you bite into a Cava pita chip, you may experience a combination of savory and herbaceous flavors, along with a hint of smokiness if smoked paprika is used. The seasoning complements the natural flavors of the pita bread and olive oil, creating a well-rounded and enjoyable taste.

The taste of Cava pita chips pairs wonderfully with a variety of dips and spreads. Whether you're dipping them into creamy hummus, tangy tzatziki, or flavorful baba ganoush, the chips provide a satisfying base that balances the flavors and textures of the accompanying dips.

What is in Cava Pita Chips?

Pita bread rounds: Pita bread is a round, flatbread that is commonly used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. It has a pocket-like structure that makes it perfect for turning into chips. You can usually find pita bread at your local grocery store or bakery.
Olive oil: Olive oil is a key ingredient in the recipe, adding richness and flavor to the pita chips. It also helps the chips become crispy during baking. Look for extra virgin olive oil, which has a more pronounced flavor.
Salt and pepper: These basic seasonings are used to enhance the taste of the pita chips. They provide a savory and balanced flavor to complement the other ingredients.
Optional herbs and spices: You can customize the seasonings of your Cava pita chips by adding optional herbs and spices. Some popular choices include garlic powder, paprika, dried herbs like oregano or thyme, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. These additional ingredients add depth and complexity to the flavor profile of the chips.

Equipment required for this recipe

Baking sheet: A baking sheet is essential for baking the pita chips in the oven. It provides a flat surface for the chips to crisp up evenly. If you don't have a baking sheet, you can use a regular oven-safe tray or even a large, flat-bottomed pan as a substitute. Just make sure it has enough space to accommodate the pita chips in a single layer.
Knife or scissors: You'll need a knife or a pair of kitchen scissors to cut the pita bread into triangles or desired shapes. A sharp knife works well for cutting through the pita bread, or you can use kitchen scissors for easier and quicker cutting.
Brush or hands: You'll need a brush or your hands to drizzle and evenly spread the olive oil onto the pita chips. A pastry brush is commonly used for this task, but if you don't have one, you can simply use your hands to evenly coat the chips with the oil. Just make sure to wash your hands thoroughly before handling the food.
Seasoning shaker or small bowl: To season the pita chips with salt, pepper, and optional herbs or spices, you can use a small seasoning shaker or a bowl. If you don't have a shaker, you can sprinkle the seasonings directly from their containers or use a small bowl to mix the seasonings together and then sprinkle them over the chips.
Oven: You'll need an oven to bake the pita chips until they turn golden brown and crispy. Most home ovens work well for this purpose. Make sure to preheat the oven according to the recipe instructions before baking.

How to make Cava Pita Chips

Make delicious Cava pita chips at home! This easy recipe yields crispy, seasoned chips perfect for dipping. A flavorful snack that's sure to impress.

Ingredients

4-6 pita bread rounds
2-3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Optional: Herbs or spices (such as garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Take the pita bread rounds and cut them into triangles or any desired shape. You can separate the two layers of each pita round to get thinner and crispier chips.
Lay the pita triangles on a baking sheet in a single layer. If you have more than one baking sheet, you can divide them between the sheets.
Drizzle the olive oil over the pita triangles, making sure to coat each one evenly. You can use a brush or your hands to spread the oil.
Season the pita chips with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices. Be creative and use flavors that you enjoy.
Place the baking sheet(s) in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the pita chips turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them, as they can burn quickly.
Once the chips are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. They will become even crispier as they cool down.
Serve the homemade Cava pita chips with your favorite dips, such as hummus, tzatziki, or baba ganoush. Enjoy!

How to serve Cava Pita Chips

Prepare your dips: Start by preparing your desired dips to accompany the pita chips. Popular options include hummus, tzatziki, baba ganoush, or any other Mediterranean-inspired dips of your choice. You can either make the dips from scratch or use store-bought versions for convenience.
Arrange the pita chips: Once the pita chips are baked and cooled, arrange them on a serving platter or a bowl. You can stack them or arrange them in a single layer, depending on the presentation you prefer.
Garnish (optional): If desired, you can garnish the pita chips with some additional ingredients to add visual appeal. For example, you can sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or mint over the chips, or even add a light dusting of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor.
Serve with dips: Place the prepared dips alongside the pita chips. You can either position them in separate bowls or create wells within the platter of chips to hold the dips. This allows your guests to easily dip the chips into the accompanying dips.
Additional garnishes (optional): To enhance the presentation further, you can add some additional garnishes to the dips. For example, a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of paprika, or a few olives or cucumber slices on top of the tzatziki can provide an appealing touch.
Enjoy! Your Cava pita chips are now ready to be served. Place the platter or bowl of chips and dips in the center of your table or serve them individually to your guests. Encourage everyone to grab a chip and dip it into the delicious accompanying sauces.

Rated: 4.9 of 5.0 from 648 reviews.

Recipe Tags: Cava Pita Chips, Cava Pita Chips Recipe, CAVA, Pita Chips, Recipe, Top rated

What to serve Cava Pita Chips with

Dips: The most common and popular choice is to serve the pita chips with a selection of delicious dips.
Salsa or Pico de Gallo: For a different flavor profile, you can serve Cava pita chips with a fresh and tangy salsa or pico de gallo. These tomato-based dips typically include ingredients like onions, cilantro, jalapenos, lime juice, and various spices. They provide a zesty and vibrant accompaniment to the chips.
Guacamole: Another popular option is to serve Cava pita chips with creamy and flavorful guacamole. This avocado-based dip can be simple with just avocados, lime juice, salt, and pepper, or you can add diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, and other seasonings to customize the flavor.
Mediterranean Salad: To create a more substantial snack or light meal, you can serve Cava pita chips with a fresh Mediterranean salad. Combine ingredients like cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, feta cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice. The salad can be served alongside the pita chips, allowing you to enjoy a mix of textures and flavors.
Mezze Platter: For a more elaborate spread, create a mezze platter with a variety of Mediterranean-inspired bites. Alongside the Cava pita chips, include items like stuffed grape leaves, marinated olives, falafel, roasted vegetables, and dolmas. This assortment of small plates and snacks provides a diverse and satisfying tasting experience.

My recommendations and tips

Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality pita bread and olive oil for the best results. Freshly baked pita bread will have a better texture and flavor compared to stale or store-bought ones. Similarly, using good-quality extra virgin olive oil will enhance the taste of the chips.
Seasoning Balance: When seasoning your pita chips, start with a moderate amount of salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices. You can always add more seasoning later if needed. Taste a chip after baking and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Oven Temperature and Timing: Follow the recipe instructions for preheating the oven and baking the chips. Make sure your oven is properly preheated to ensure even cooking and crispiness. Keep an eye on the chips as they bake to prevent burning, as oven temperatures can vary.
Uniform Slicing: When cutting the pita bread into chips, try to make the pieces as uniform in size as possible. This will ensure even baking, with all the chips getting crispy and golden brown at the same time.
Evenly Coat with Oil: Whether using a brush or your hands, ensure that the olive oil is evenly distributed on both sides of the pita chips. This will help achieve a consistent and crispy texture throughout.
Single Layer Baking: Arrange the pita chips in a single layer on the baking sheet to allow proper airflow and even baking. If needed, bake the chips in batches to avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.
Cooling and Storing: Allow the baked chips to cool completely before serving or storing. This helps them become extra crispy. Store any leftover chips in an airtight container or resealable bag to maintain their freshness and crispness.
Serve Fresh and Warm: Cava pita chips are best served fresh and warm. If you're not serving them immediately, you can reheat them in a preheated oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.
Get Creative with Dips and Toppings: Experiment with different dips and toppings to complement your Cava pita chips. Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs, grated Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of flavored oils to enhance the flavor and visual appeal.
Have Fun and Enjoy: Making Cava pita chips is a fun and enjoyable process. Don't be afraid to get creative and customize the recipe to suit your preferences. Have fun experimenting with different seasonings, dips, and accompaniments to create a snack that you truly enjoy.

Potential ingredients substitutes

Pita Bread Substitutes:
- Flatbread: If you can't find pita bread, you can use flatbread as a substitute. Look for thin, round flatbreads that can be easily cut into chip-sized pieces.
- Tortillas: Flour tortillas or corn tortillas can also work as a substitute for pita bread. Cut them into triangles or desired shapes and proceed with the recipe.
Olive Oil Substitutes:
- Canola Oil: Canola oil is a neutral-flavored oil that can be used as a substitute for olive oil. It works well for baking purposes.
- Vegetable Oil: Vegetable oil can also be used as a substitute. However, keep in mind that it has a milder flavor compared to olive oil, so the taste of the chips may differ slightly.
Seasoning Substitutes:
- Herbs and Spices: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices based on your taste preferences. If you don't have a specific herb or spice mentioned in the recipe, you can try using alternatives that complement the flavors you enjoy. For example, if the recipe calls for oregano but you don't have it, you could use thyme or rosemary instead.
- Seasoned Salt: If you don't have separate salt and pepper, you can use seasoned salt as a substitute. It typically contains a combination of salt, pepper, and other herbs and spices.

Additional note

Storage: Once the pita chips have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature. Properly stored, they should stay fresh and crispy for a few days. However, keep in mind that their texture may gradually soften over time.
Reheating: If you have leftover chips or want to freshen up the texture of stored chips, you can reheat them in a preheated oven for a few minutes. This will help restore their crispiness.
Customization: The beauty of Cava pita chips is their versatility. Feel free to customize the recipe according to your preferences. You can experiment with different seasonings, herbs, and spices to create unique flavor combinations. Additionally, you can adjust the thickness of the pita chips based on your preference for a more substantial crunch or a lighter texture.
Pairing Suggestions: While the traditional way to enjoy Cava pita chips is with dips, you can also get creative with other accompaniments. Consider pairing them with cheese, charcuterie, or a selection of pickled vegetables for a delightful snacking experience. They can also be served alongside soups, salads, or as a crunchy addition to a mezze-style spread.
Portion Control: Keep in mind that pita chips, while delicious, can be addictive. It's easy to indulge in a large portion, so be mindful of your portion sizes. Consider serving them in small bowls or plates to help with portion control.
Serving Variations: While the recipe typically calls for triangle-shaped pita chips, you can experiment with different shapes and sizes. For example, you can cut the pita bread into strips or squares for a different presentation. You can even use cookie cutters to create fun and unique shapes.
Ingredient Quality: As with any recipe, using high-quality ingredients can make a difference in the final result. Opt for fresh and flavorful pita bread, good-quality olive oil, and fresh herbs and spices for the best taste experience.

Final Remark

In conclusion, Cava pita chips are a must-try snack that combines crunch, flavor, and versatility. With this easy recipe, you can enjoy homemade chips that are perfect for dipping or enjoying on their own. Elevate your snacking experience with these crispy delights!