Are you on the lookout for a simple yet delicious lunch that you can enjoy at home or pack for work or school? Look no further than these Pita Pockets with Roasted Veggies and Hummus! Not only are they a fun and healthy alternative to the typical sandwich, but they also boast a colorful array of roasted veggies, creamy hummus, and a hint of Mediterranean flavors.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These vegan pita pockets are quick and easy to prepare, making them an ideal meal whether you’re looking for a warm lunch or something you can eat cold. They’re nutrient-packed, satisfying, and incredibly portable – perfect for busy days or meal prepping for the week ahead. Plus, they’re customizable based on your preferences and what’s available in your kitchen!

A Simple, Nutritious Meal

To make these pita pockets, you’ll need just a few basic ingredients, but their vibrant flavors will surely impress! The combination of roasted eggplant, bell peppers, and carrots offers a rich taste while adding important vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. The creamy hummus provides plant-based protein, and the whole grain pita bread adds a satisfying crunch and a healthy dose of carbs to keep you energized.

Benefits of Pita Pockets with Roasted Veggies and Hummus

• Pita Bread: A great source of carbs and fiber, especially if you choose whole grain pita. It’s a healthy option for lunch, providing magnesium, calcium, and other essential minerals.

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasting veggies like eggplant, carrots, and bell peppers brings out their natural sweetness and deepens their flavors while preserving their nutrients.

• Hummus: Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, hummus is an excellent spread. It also contains anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants, making it a heart-healthy addition to your meal.

A Fun and Versatile Meal

What’s great about these pita pockets is that they can be tailored to your taste. For a little extra kick, add some chili flakes or a spoonful of green harissa. You can also switch up the veggies or add extra ingredients like fresh spinach, pomegranate seeds, or parsley for a burst of flavor.

How to Make Pita Pockets with Roasted Veggies and Hummus

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Start by slicing eggplant, carrots, and bell peppers into strips. Toss them with spices like Ras-el-Hanout, turmeric, and paprika, then roast them in the oven for about 25 minutes until tender.

2. Make the Hummus: Blend chickpeas, olive oil, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and spices together until smooth. Add water to adjust the consistency.

3. Assemble the Pockets: Cut the pita breads in half, stuff each pocket with a generous amount of hummus, roasted veggies, and fresh spinach. Top with pomegranate seeds and chopped parsley.

4. Serve: These pita pockets can be enjoyed warm or cold. For a refreshing touch, pair them with a cold glass of ayran (Turkish yogurt drink).

The Recipe

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4
Calories: 382 kcal per serving

Ingredients:

• For the Pita Pockets:

  • 1 eggplant

  • 2 carrots

  • 1 red bell pepper

  • 1 teaspoon Ras-el-Hanout

  • 1 teaspoon turmeric

  • 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

  • 4 whole grain pita breads

  • 1 cup hummus (store-bought or homemade)

  • A handful of baby spinach

  • Pomegranate seeds (for garnish)

  • Chopped parsley (for garnish)

  • 

• For the Hummus:

  • 1 cup chickpeas

  • 1/2 lemon (juiced)

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons tahini paste

  • 1 garlic clove

  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin

  • 1/2 teaspoon Ras-el-Hanout (optional)

  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (optional)

  • 1/4 teaspoon sweet paprika (optional)

  • Dash of chili flakes (optional)

  • 2 tablespoons water (adjust to consistency)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Cut the vegetables into strips and arrange them on a baking tray. Sprinkle with spices, salt, and pepper, then roast for about 25 minutes until tender.

2. For the hummus, blend all ingredients (except water) until smooth. Gradually add water to reach your desired consistency.

3. Warm the pita bread as per package instructions, then cut them in half to create pockets.

4. Stuff each pocket with about 2 tablespoons of hummus, roasted veggies, and fresh spinach.

5. Garnish with pomegranate seeds and parsley. Serve warm or cold.

These pita pockets are a wonderful choice for lunch or a quick snack. They’re a great balance of flavors, textures, and nutrients, and they’re sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping things healthy!