Recently, I've been all about no-recipe meals. Pizzas, pastas, sandwiches, and salads have been my best friends in clearing out my fridge of leftover ingredients. That's how this vibrant vegan flatbread recipe was born. The laid-back summer days lead to spontaneous grocery shopping, filling my fridge with a mix of seasonal produce that begs to be used.
What I initially viewed as a hassle turned into inspiration for this flatbread. To make the most of the items in my fridge, I crafted a meal that's bound to be a staple until Labor Day.
This vegan flatbread is a flavor sensation! From the luscious hummus to fresh summer veggies and warm naan, it promises a satisfying, plant-based main course.
Crafting the Perfect Hummus
The hummus is the heart of this dish, offering rich flavor that's tempting enough to eat by the spoonful. I've been whipping up roasted carrot hummus so often that I no longer follow a set recipe. This flatbread features a slight twist on that classic hummus.
Along with roasted carrots seasoned with paprika, cumin, and coriander, I also roast garlic and a red bell pepper on the same tray. Roasting enhances the sweetness and smokiness of these vegetables, elevating the hummus to a deliciously addictive level.
I prepare the hummus at the start of the week, blending everything and storing it in an airtight container for easy access.
What Can I Top My Flatbread With?
Endless possibilities await! Like creating a delicious grain bowl, a simple formula can guide your flatbread toppings.
Your choice of bread. For this recipe, I recommend a heartier bread like naan or pita, but tortillas, roti, or focaccia work too.
A creamy spread. While this smoked carrot and red pepper hummus is delightful, you could also use plain or green hummus. If you're not a hummus fan, take a cue from other flatbread ideas and opt for ricotta or another creamy cheese.
Fresh veggies. Think about adding crunchy favorites like cucumbers, snap peas, or greens.
Roasted veggies. While optional, a roasted vegetable that complements the dip enhances the flavors. I used charred summer corn, but feel free to roast red or green peppers, eggplant, or sweet potatoes.
Pickled veggies. Quick-pickled shallots or other favorites add a briny touch that ties everything together.
Your choice of protein. I opted for avocado to keep it vegan, but a fried egg would be a tasty addition.
Don't skip the fresh herbs! Basil, mint, dill—whatever you have adds a burst of flavor.
The options are virtually limitless. Use whatever you have on hand!
Can I Prepare These Flatbreads in Advance?
These flatbreads can be prepped ahead. I made one for lunch recently and got sidetracked by a work call, forgetting it on the counter for a bit. To keep everything fresh and maintain the right textures, prep ingredients separately during your weekly meal planning and assemble just before eating.
Experiment with any of these flavor combinations, and we'd love to hear: what are your favorite flatbread topping ideas?
Description
Customizable flatbread.
Ingredients
for the hummus:
- 5 large carrots, peeled
- 1 red bell pepper, halved
- 1 head of garlic, sliced in half lengthwise
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 can garbanzo beans
- 2 tbsp tahini
- zest of 1 lemon
- juice of 2 lemons
- water as needed
to serve:
- flatbread of choice – naan or pita, warmed
- various vegetables: greens, peas, cucumbers, corn, avocado, pickled shallots
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
- On a baking tray, place the carrots, red bell pepper cut side down, and garlic wrapped in foil with olive oil. Drizzle oil over the carrots and pepper, then sprinkle spices on the carrots and salt on the pepper. Bake for about 30 minutes until charred and tender. Let cool.
- In a high-powered blender, combine garbanzo beans, tahini, lemon zest, juice, and a splash of water.
- Chop the carrots, peel the skin off the pepper, deseed, and squeeze the garlic cloves into the blender. Blend until smooth, adjusting salt to taste.
- Spread hummus on flatbread, then top with your chosen vegetables. Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 10
