Grilled Chickpea Veggie Pita
This Grilled Chickpea Veggie Pita blends flavors from different cultures into one delicious meal. The chickpea filling is inspired by falafel and spiced with za’atar, a Middle Eastern blend of sumac and sesame. The pita is grilled until crispy, creating a satisfying, high-protein meal that's full of fiber and flavor. Perfect for a healthy lunch, this dish is not only nutritious but budget-friendly, featuring simple, plant-based ingredients.
2 tbsp avocado oil, divided
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1/2 yellow onion, finely diced
1 red bell pepper, finely diced
4 oz mushrooms, finely diced
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp tomato paste
1/2 tbsp soy sauce or coconut aminos
2 tsp za’atar
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp ground coriander
1/4 tsp fennel seeds
1/4 cup parsley, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
3 whole grain pitas
Directions:
1. Mash chickpeas in a bowl with a fork. Set aside.
2. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan, add onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Cook for 2-3 mins, then add salt and cook until liquid evaporates.
3. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, then stir in tomato paste, chickpeas, soy sauce, and spices. Cook for 2-3 mins.
4. Mix in parsley, taste, and adjust seasoning. Set aside.
5. Preheat a griddle, cut pitas in half, and stuff with the chickpea mixture. Brush pitas with remaining oil.
6. Grill each pita for 3-4 minutes until grill marks appear, then flip and sear the other sides for 3 minutes.
7. Mix yogurt sauce ingredients and season to taste. Serve with the pitas and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 350 kcal per pita