This Mediterranean Flatbread is a vibrant, nutrient-packed meal or appetizer that comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or easy entertaining.
What makes this recipe truly appealing is its perfect balance of flavor and health.
Layered with hummus, vegetables, and cheeses, it offers a satisfying combination of creamy, salty, and tangy elements.
20-Minute Mediterranean Flatbread
Equipment
- 1 Non-stick baking sheet
- 1 Sharp Knife
- 1 Measuring cup set
- 1 Measuring spoon set
- 1 Offset spatula or spreader
Ingredients
- 2 pieces naan or flatbread store-bought or homemade
- ⅓ cup hummus any flavor of your choice; classic or roasted garlic works well
- ¼ cup chopped olives black or kalamata, pitted and coarsely chopped
- ¼ cup red onion sliced thin or roughly chopped
- ¼ cup marinated artichoke hearts drained and chopped
- ¼ cup roasted red peppers chopped into small pieces
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese plus extra for garnish
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese dairy or vegan alternative
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze for drizzling after baking
Instructions
- Prep the Oven and Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats, gather and chop all your toppings — olives, red onions, artichoke hearts, and roasted red peppers. If using homemade hummus, prepare it in advance or use a store-bought version to save time.
- Assemble the Flatbreads: Place the naan or flatbread directly on a non-stick baking sheet or line the sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread a generous layer of hummus over each piece using the back of a spoon or a spatula, covering the surface evenly.
- Add Cheeses and Toppings: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the hummus. Layer on the chopped olives, red onions, artichokes, and roasted red peppers. Finish with a light scattering of crumbled feta, reserving some to add fresh after baking for extra texture and flavor.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges of the flatbread are crisp and golden, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on the edges during the final few minutes to avoid over-browning.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the flatbreads from the oven. Immediately drizzle each with balsamic glaze, then top with the remaining feta and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Slice into wedges or squares and serve warm.
Notes
- Flatbread Options: Naan, pita, or thin crust flatbread all work beautifully. Choose a sturdy base that can hold the toppings without becoming soggy.
- Make It Vegan: Use a plant-based mozzarella and feta alternative. Most grocery stores now offer tasty vegan cheese options.
- Hummus Tip: For an extra kick, try flavored hummus varieties like sun-dried tomato or roasted red pepper.
- Customizable Toppings: Add sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or baby spinach after baking for a fresh twist.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Prep all toppings in advance and store them separately. Assemble and bake when ready to serve — ideal for entertaining or busy nights.
It’s also fiber-rich thanks to ingredients like hummus, olives, and artichoke hearts, while delivering plant-based protein from hummus and mozzarella (with a vegan cheese option).
The inclusion of good fats from olives and olive oil-based hummus supports heart health, and the moderate calorie content makes it a nourishing yet indulgent option.
This flatbread is a smart everyday recipe — quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and meal-prep friendly.
It works equally well as a main course or a shareable starter, and you can easily switch up toppings based on what’s in your fridge.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Non-Stick Baking Sheet
A durable non-stick baking sheet ensures even cooking and crisp edges on your flatbread without sticking or burning. It’s a must-have for roasting, baking, and sheet pan meals of all kinds.
Sharp Chef’s Knife
For quickly and precisely chopping veggies like red onions, olives, and artichokes, a sharp chef’s knife is essential. It’s a daily kitchen workhorse that makes prep faster and safer.
Offset Spatula or Spreader
This tool makes it easy to evenly spread the hummus over the flatbread without tearing it. It’s also perfect for frosting cakes or spreading condiments on sandwiches.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements are key for balancing flavors in toppings like feta, balsamic glaze, and mozzarella. A good measuring set is indispensable for consistent cooking and baking.
Cooling Rack (Optional but Helpful)
Using a cooling rack after baking can help maintain the crispiness of the flatbread by allowing airflow underneath — especially useful when prepping multiple flatbreads for a gathering.
Chef’s Secrets for Flatbread Success
To make your Mediterranean flatbread truly stand out, the key lies in balancing moisture and texture.
Be sure to thoroughly drain toppings like artichoke hearts and roasted red peppers before adding them to the flatbread to prevent sogginess.
For a crispier base, consider placing the flatbreads directly on the oven rack during the last 2–3 minutes of baking.
Don’t be afraid to lightly toast your naan before adding toppings if you like extra crunch.
For a richer flavor, lightly brush the flatbread edges with olive oil before baking.
Using high-quality hummus and cheese also makes a noticeable difference in taste — opt for a bold hummus flavor and a good-quality feta.
Lastly, always finish with the balsamic glaze after baking to preserve its vibrant, sweet acidity.
Smart and Satisfying Serving Ideas
This flatbread is a fantastic option for lunch, dinner, or as an elegant appetizer for parties and gatherings.
For a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal, serve it alongside a crisp cucumber-tomato salad, a dollop of tzatziki, or a side of lemon-herb quinoa.
It also pairs beautifully with light wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Want to turn it into a protein-packed entrée? Add chickpeas, grilled chicken, or falafel crumbles on top before baking.
For a brunch twist, you can even top it with a poached egg after it comes out of the oven.
Slice it into small squares for party bites, or serve whole for individual meals.
Best Practices for Storing Leftovers
To keep leftovers fresh and flavorful, store any cooled flatbread slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When you’re ready to reheat, skip the microwave — instead, warm the slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore the crispness.
You can also reheat them in an air fryer for a faster, crunchier result. While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the toppings and hummus ahead of time and assemble just before baking.
Freezing is not recommended, as the fresh veggies and hummus may not retain their texture after thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions Answered Clearly
1. Can I use pita bread instead of naan?
Absolutely! Pita bread works well as a thinner base for this recipe. Just keep in mind that it may crisp up faster in the oven, so reduce the baking time slightly to prevent overcooking.
2. Is this recipe vegan or vegetarian?
The base recipe is vegetarian. To make it vegan, simply substitute the mozzarella and feta with plant-based cheese alternatives and ensure your hummus contains no dairy (most don’t).
3. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, you can use any gluten-free flatbread or naan available at grocery stores. Be sure to check labels for certified gluten-free options to suit dietary needs.
4. What type of hummus works best?
Classic hummus is always a great choice, but don’t hesitate to try flavored varieties like roasted garlic, red pepper, or lemon herb for added depth. Homemade hummus also elevates the dish with fresher taste.
5. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can chop all your toppings and store them separately in the fridge a day or two in advance. Assemble and bake just before serving for best texture and flavor.
