Grilled Flatbread with Whipped Feta, Cherry Tomatoes & Basil
Warm, charred flatbread topped with creamy whipped feta, sweet cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil—this vibrant and rustic dish captures the essence of Mediterranean summer. Light yet flavorful, it’s an elegant choice for lunch, a simple appetizer, or a delightful part of any al fresco gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Grilled Flatbread with Whipped Feta is an effortless dish with big rewards. It combines crispy, smoky flatbread with the tangy richness of feta and the freshness of tomatoes and basil. Whether served as a shareable appetizer or a light vegetarian entrée, it’s colorful, customizable, and quick to prepare. It’s the perfect solution when you want something fast, fresh, and full of flavor.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Flatbread:
- 3 store-bought or homemade flatbreads
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, halved
For the Topping:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup ricotta or whipped feta (blend feta with a little olive oil)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
- Lightly brush both sides of the flatbreads with olive oil.
- Grill each side for 1–2 minutes until grill marks appear and the bread is warmed through.
- While still warm, rub each flatbread with the cut side of a garlic clove to infuse flavor.
- Spread a generous layer of whipped feta or ricotta onto each flatbread.
- Top with halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta, and freshly sliced basil.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season to taste with salt and black pepper.
- Serve immediately while warm or allow to cool slightly and enjoy at room temperature.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 3 flatbreads, serving 3–6 people depending on portion size.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Add Protein: Top with grilled shrimp, sliced chicken, or prosciutto for a more filling option.
- Spicy Kick: Add a few chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for heat.
- Vegan Option: Use a dairy-free feta or cashew-based cheese alternative.
- Different Herbs: Replace basil with mint, parsley, or oregano for a different flavor profile.
- Balsamic Glaze: Add a drizzle of balsamic reduction for sweet acidity.
Storage/Reheating
Flatbreads are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat:
- Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes.
- Avoid microwaving to prevent soggy texture.
If preparing ahead, grill and store the flatbreads separately, adding the toppings just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use naan instead of flatbread?
Yes, naan works perfectly and adds a soft, chewy texture to the base.
How do I make whipped feta?
Blend feta cheese with a drizzle of olive oil (and optionally a spoon of Greek yogurt) until smooth and spreadable.
Can I use sun-dried tomatoes?
Yes, they add a more intense, tangy flavor. Use sparingly as a substitute or in combination with fresh tomatoes.
Is this recipe suitable for a crowd?
Absolutely. Slice each flatbread into smaller pieces for easy serving at parties or gatherings.
Can I grill the tomatoes first?
Yes, lightly grilling the tomatoes adds a sweet, smoky flavor. Grill on skewers or in a grill basket.
What’s the difference between ricotta and whipped feta?
Ricotta is milder and creamier, while whipped feta is tangier and saltier. Choose based on your flavor preference.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can grill the flatbread in advance, but it’s best to add toppings just before serving to preserve texture.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the flavors are simple and appealing. You can skip the garlic rub or use milder cheese if preferred.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is recommended for best flavor and aroma, but dried basil can be used in small amounts if necessary.
What wines pair well with this dish?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or dry Rosé pairs wonderfully with the bright, tangy flavors of the flatbread.
Conclusion
Grilled Flatbread with Whipped Feta, Cherry Tomatoes & Basil is a quick, flavorful dish that captures the best of seasonal produce and Mediterranean simplicity. Whether served as a light lunch, elegant appetizer, or vibrant side, it’s sure to please with its contrast of creamy, crunchy, and fresh elements. Ideal for warm-weather dining, this flatbread recipe is a staple worth returning to.
PrintGrilled Flatbread with Whipped Feta, Cherry Tomatoes & Basil
Warm grilled flatbread topped with creamy whipped feta, sweet cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil. A vibrant, rustic dish perfect for summer lunches, appetizers, or al fresco dining.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 3 flatbreads 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- For the Flatbread:
- 3 store-bought or homemade flatbreads
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, halved
- For the Topping:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup ricotta or whipped feta (blend feta with a little olive oil)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
- Brush both sides of the flatbreads with olive oil. Grill each side for 1–2 minutes or until grill marks appear and bread is warm.
- Rub the warm grilled flatbreads with the cut side of the garlic for flavor.
- Spread a generous layer of whipped feta or ricotta over each flatbread.
- Top with halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta, and a handful of sliced basil.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper.
- Serve immediately while warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use heirloom cherry tomatoes for added color and sweetness.
- Make whipped feta ahead of time and store in the fridge for convenience.
- Optional: Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra depth of flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 flatbread
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: grilled flatbread, whipped feta, cherry tomato appetizer, summer lunch, vegetarian flatbread