These Mediterranean flatbreads topped with fresh mint and crumbly feta cheese are a tasty treat! They’re perfect for a snack or light meal and bring a burst of flavor to your table.
Every bite is like a mini vacation to Greece! 🌿 I love serving them warm with a side of olives—everybody steals a piece when they’re around. Delicious and easy, what’s not to love?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Active Dry Yeast: This is essential for giving the flatbreads their texture. Saf yeast is my go-to. If you don’t have dry yeast, you could use instant yeast (no need to activate) or try baking powder, though the texture will differ.
Mint: Fresh mint adds a bright flavor to the flatbreads. If mint isn’t available, try using parsley or basil for a different twist. I sometimes mix herbs for extra flavor!
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta is classic here. If you want a creamier texture, try goat cheese. For a dairy-free option, check out vegan feta substitutes made from nuts.
Olive Oil: This enhances flavor and texture. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with melted butter or avocado oil, yet olive oil gives it that beautiful Mediterranean touch.
How to Achieve Soft and Chewy Flatbreads?
The key to soft, chewy flatbreads lies in kneading and rising. Be sure to knead the dough properly—this develops gluten, which helps create that chewy texture. Here’s how to do it:
- When kneading, use your palms and push down, then fold and rotate. Do this for about 8-10 minutes.
- Let the dough rise until it doubles, which typically takes 1-1.5 hours. This is crucial for a light, airy bread!
Keep the environment warm; placing it in a turned-off oven works wonders. This makes your flatbreads light and delightful! Enjoy baking!
Easy Mediterranean Mint and Feta Flatbreads
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for brushing
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped (reserve some whole for garnish)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced (for mixing into dough or topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes for preparation, plus 1-1.5 hours for the dough to rise and 6-8 minutes for baking. In total, you’re looking at around 2 hours to enjoy these delightful flatbreads, including some lovely waiting time while the dough does its magic!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes until you see it foam up. This step is essential to ensure your yeast is alive and kicking!
2. Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Then, add the olive oil and the activated yeast mixture. Stir it all together until a shaggy dough forms—don’t worry if it looks a bit messy!
3. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour as needed.
4. Let the Dough Rise:
Place your dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and set it in a warm place until it doubles in size—this will take about 1 to 1.5 hours. It’s the perfect time to sip some tea or chat with a friend!
5. Preheat the Oven:
While the dough rises, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a baking stone or an inverted baking sheet, place it in the oven to heat up—this helps give you a crispy base.
6. Shape the Flatbreads:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 4 or 6 equal pieces. Roll or stretch each piece into an oval or round flatbread about 6-7 inches in diameter. Don’t worry about making it perfect; rustic is charming!
7. Prepare the Toppings:
In a small bowl, mix the chopped mint leaves with a bit of olive oil. Brush each flatbread lightly with olive oil, then spread the mint mixture on top for a fresh flavor kick.
8. Add Feta:
Sprinkle crumbled feta evenly over each flatbread. Don’t be shy—more feta equals more flavor! Season with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper.
9. Bake:
Carefully transfer the flatbreads to the hot baking stone or sheet. Bake for 6-8 minutes, or until they puff up and the edges are a beautiful golden brown with some charred spots. It’s aromatic and mouthwatering!
10. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the flatbreads from the oven, brush them lightly with more olive oil, and garnish with whole mint leaves if you’d like. Serve them warm and enjoy every bite!
Those aroma-filled Mediterranean mint and feta flatbreads will surely impress your friends and family. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour! However, the flatbreads may turn out denser. I recommend using a mix of all-purpose and whole wheat flour (about 50/50) for a lighter texture while still getting the benefits of whole grains.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Mint?
No worries! Fresh herbs contribute great flavor, but you can substitute fresh mint with dried mint (just use about 1/3 of the amount) or try basil or parsley for a different twist. Each will give you a unique flavor profile!
How Do I Store Leftover Flatbreads?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, warm them in a toaster oven or regular oven for a few minutes until warm and slightly crispy.
Can I Make the Dough in Advance?
Absolutely! You can make the dough ahead of time and let it rise, then punch it down and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just allow the dough to come to room temperature before shaping and baking to get the best results!
