Pita chips make a great vehicle for dips, spreads, and other toppings. Their crunchy texture and ability to hold up when dunked make them a popular snack food. But with so many options available, what are the best things to top pita chips with? Here we’ll explore some of the most popular and delicious pita chip companions to give you ideas for your next snack time.
Classic Dips
Some of the most classic dips pair wonderfully with pita chips. The crisp pita provides a sturdy base for scooping up creamy, savory dips. Here are some of the top contenders:
Hummus
This protein-packed chickpea spread is a natural fit for pita chips. Hummus comes in myriad flavors, from original to roasted red pepper, Kalamata olive, and more. Its cool, creamy texture and tahini and garlic flavors complement the pita’s crunch. Hummus makes a healthy plant-based dip option you can feel good about enjoying.
Baba ganoush
For an eggplant-based version similar to hummus, try baba ganoush. This Middle Eastern dip has a smoky, garlicky flavor that pairs perfectly with pita. The silkiness of the eggplant makes a winning contrast against the crisp pita. Try making your own or pick up a tub at the grocery store.
Guacamole
What party would be complete without guacamole and chips? The cool, chunky avocado dip is a no-brainer topper for pita chips. Guacamole’s creamy texture and bold flavors are so addicting. Go for a classic version or get creative with mix-ins like pineapple or mango for a tropical twist.
Spinach and artichoke dip
For a warm, cheesy dip, spinach artichoke is a crowd pleaser. This veggie-packed dip is irresistibly stringy and pairs wonderfully with crunchy pita chips. Spinach and artichoke dip makes a cozy appetizer for game day or movie night.
Queso
Melty cheese sauce is hard to resist when dipping pita chips. Look for queso fundido for a Mexican-style dip or opt for a cheesy Buffalo chicken version. The possibilities are nearly endless for flavorful queso dips. The creaminess makes the perfect match for the pita crunch.
Spreads
Beyond classic dips, flavorful spreads also dress up pita chips impressively. Here are some tasty spread options to consider:
Olive tapenade
This olive-based spread offers a briny, savory flavor and paste-like texture ideal for pita chips. Tapenade comes in black or green olive versions. It packs a punch of umami olive flavor that pairs perfectly with the neutral pita.
Baba ghanoush
This smoky eggplant spread is similar to baba ganoush dip but with a thicker, scoopable texture. Baba ghanoush has a rich creaminess offset by garlic and lemon that makes a flavorful pita chip topper.
Muhammara
Muhammara is a red pepper and walnut spread popular in the Middle East. It has a slightly smoky, sweet flavor complemented by pomegranate molasses and spices. The pepper and walnut blend results in a chunky texture that pairs well with pita chips.
Labneh
This thick Middle Eastern yogurt cheese has a rich, tangy flavor. When paired with pita chips, labneh is often topped with olive oil, za’atar and other spices. The cool creaminess complements the crunch of the pita chips wonderfully.
Feta spread
For an easy Greek-inspired spread, blend feta, olive oil, lemon juice and seasonings. The salty, tangy feta makes a cool contrast to the pita chips. Try adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
Bruschetta Toppings
Bruschetta toppings meant for bread also double as delicious pita chip companions. Here are some bright, fresh bruschetta ideas:
Tomato and basil
The classic Italian bruschetta toppings, chopped tomato and basil, lend themselves perfectly to pita chips. The juicy tomato and aromatic basil create a simple but delicious pairing that allows the pita to shine.
Artichoke bruschetta
Marinated artichokes, olive oil, lemon, garlic and Parmesan make a more complex bruschetta mix. The tang and crunch of the artichoke contrast with the crisp pita chips.
Caprese bruschetta
For an easy 3-ingredient topping, go for fresh mozzarella, sliced tomato and basil drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. This Caprese-inspired mix allows the stellar ingredients to be the star alongside the pita chips.
White bean bruschetta
Pureed cannellini beans seasoned with lemon, garlic and olive oil create an easy, protein-rich topping for pita chips. The creaminess pairs perfectly with the crunch.
Fun Toppings and Mix-Ins
Beyond dips and spreads, don’t be afraid to get creative with fun mix-ins and toppings for your pita chips. Almost anything goes! Consider these ideas:
Cheese
Shredded cheese, crumbled feta or goat cheese, sliced cheese, melted cheese – you really can’t go wrong topping pita chips with cheese. Cheddar, jack, Parmesan, blue cheese – take your pick!
Pesto
The herby green garlicky punch of pesto sauce makes a stellar pita chip topping. Traditional basil pesto is always a winner. Or try versions made with spinach, sun-dried tomato or other creative twists.
Tapas
Spanish tapas like marinated olives, roasted peppers and marcona almonds make great pita chip toppers. Build your own tapas spread for dipping.
Chickpeas
Roasted, seasoned chickpeas add extra protein and crunch when sprinkled on pita chips.flavor options like za’atar, ranch or barbecue.
Nuts and seeds
For extra crunch and flavor, top pita chips with nuts and seeds. Pine nuts, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, pistachios and more are all fair game.
Dukkah
This Egyptian nut and spice blend with hazelnuts, sesame seeds, coriander and cumin adds an addictive crunchy, nutty flavor to pita chips.
Fruit
Fresh fruit like bananas, strawberries, kiwi, mango or pomegranate arils makes pita chips breakfast-friendly. Dried fruit also adds sweetness and texture.
Coconut
Toasted coconut flakes lend a tropical crunch and flavor to pita chips.
Honey or jam
Drizzle pita chips with honey or swipe with jam for a sweet contrast.
Chocolate hazelnut spread
For dessert, top pita chips with chocolate hazelnut spread like Nutella. Banana slices and coconut also pair wonderfully.
Cinnamon sugar
Sprinkle pita chips with cinnamon and sugar for a sweet treat. Chili powder and sugar is also a popular dessert seasonng.
Comparing Nutrition of Top Options
When choosing what to top your pita chips with, nutrition may be a consideration. Here’s how some of the most popular dips, spreads and toppings compare nutritionally:
| Topping | Calories | Fat | Protein | Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 Tbsp Hummus | 70 | 4g | 3g | 6g |
| 2 Tbsp Guacamole | 50 | 5g | 1g | 2g |
| 2 Tbsp Baba Ganoush | 20 | 2g | 1g | 2g |
| 2 Tbsp Labneh | 70 | 5g | 3g | 3g |
| 2 Tbsp Feta Spread | 90 | 8g | 4g | 1g |
| 1/4 Cup Tapenade | 130 | 14g | 1g | 2g |
| 2 Tbsp Pesto | 80 | 8g | 2g | 2g |
| 1 Oz Cheese | 110 | 9g | 7g | 1g |
As you can see, most dips and spreads contain a similar calorie and fat content. Cheese and oil-based spreads like tapenade tend to be higher in calories and fat. Hummus, guacamole, baba ganoush and labneh offer more protein. In general, most dips and spreads can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a pita chip snack or appetizer.
Pairing Drinks with Pita Chips
Don’t forget to pair your pita chips and toppings with a delicious beverage! Here are some drink ideas that complement the flavors:
Wine
Pita chips and dips pair wonderfully with a glass of crisp white or rosé wine. Try options like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio or Rosé.
Beer
For beer, opt for a lighter style like lager or wheat beer. The bubbles and crispness cleanse the palate.
Fresh lemonade
Homemade or store-bought lemonade offers a tangy, refreshing partner for pita chips. Try strawberry or watermelon lemonade for a fruitier drink.
Iced tea
For an alcohol-free option, brew up a pitcher of iced tea. Unsweetened, peach, or mint iced tea all complement pita chips.
Sparkling water
Add some bubbles to your snack with flavored sparkling waters like blackberry, cucumber lime or blood orange.
Yogurt smoothie
A yogurt-based fruit smoothie offers a cooling, creamy beverage alongside the crunch of pita and dip. Try mango, berry or other fruit flavors.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to dips, spreads and toppings for pita chips. Stick with classic dips for a crowd-pleasing combo, or get creative with global flavor profiles. Whip up a quick homemade dip or spread, or pick up ready-made options at the grocery store for easy snacking and appetizers. With so many delicious options, your pita chips will never get boring!
Conclusion
Pita chips make the perfect vehicle for dips, spreads, and creative toppings. With so many options, you can keep your pita chip snacks exciting and delicious. Hummus, baba ganoush, guacamole and other classic dips are sure to please a crowd. Olive tapenade, muhammara, and pesto offer bolder flavors. Toppings like feta, nuts, and fresh bruschetta ingredients allow you to build flavorful pita chip bites and appetizers. And don’t forget drink pairings like wine, lemonade, or iced tea to complement the flavors. With endless possibilities for crunchy pita chip toppings, you can create the perfect snack or starters for any occasion.