Easy Greek fillet Pita Nachos Dinner Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound cod fillets, skinless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 pita breads, cut into wedges
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Tzatziki sauce, for serving (store-bought or homemade)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Step-by-Step
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the cod: In a bowl, drizzle the cod fillets with olive oil.
3. Season the cod: Sprinkle with oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure to coat the cod evenly.
4. Bake the cod: Place the seasoned cod fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. While the cod is baking, prepare the pita chips: Lightly brush the pita wedges with olive oil.
6. Arrange the pita wedges on a separate baking sheet.
7. Bake the pita chips: Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
8. Once the cod is cooked, flake it into bite-sized pieces.
9. Assemble the nachos: Arrange the baked pita chips on a large serving platter.
10. Top with the flaked cod, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, red onion, and tomatoes.
11. Garnish with fresh parsley.
12. Serve immediately with tzatziki sauce and lemon wedges.
Elevating Your Greek fillet Pita Nachos
These Greek fillet pita nachos are already a delicious and easy meal.
However, with a few simple tweaks, you can elevate them to a restaurant-quality dish.
### Sourcing Quality Ingredients
The quality of your ingredients makes a big difference.
Opt for fresh, high-quality cod fillets. Wild-caught cod often has a superior flavor and texture.
Use good quality feta cheese.
Real Kalamata olives offer a distinctive flavor.
Fresh herbs will always beat dried in terms of aroma and taste.
### Perfecting the Pita Chips
The pita chips are the foundation of this dish.
Crispy, golden-brown pita chips are essential. Avoid soggy or burnt chips.
Consider toasting them in a skillet with olive oil for extra flavor and texture.
For a different flavor profile, experiment with seasoning the pita chips with different herbs and spices.
A sprinkle of garlic powder, paprika, or even a touch of cumin can add a unique twist.
### The Art of the Toppings
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings to customize your nachos.
Consider adding roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts can also add a pleasant crunch.
For a spicier kick, add a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
Fresh herbs like dill, mint, or cilantro can also be used to garnish the dish.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility.
It’s easy to adapt to your preferences and dietary needs.
### Protein Options
If you don’t have cod on hand, you can easily substitute it with other types of fish.
Tilapia, haddock, or even salmon would work well in this recipe.
You could even use grilled chicken or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
### Pita Bread Alternatives
If you can’t find pita bread, you can use other types of flatbread.
Naan bread, tortillas, or even tortilla chips can be used as a substitute.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pita bread or tortilla chips.
### Sauce Alternatives
Tzatziki sauce is the traditional choice for this dish, but you can use other sauces as well.
Hummus, baba ghanoush, or even a simple lemon-herb vinaigrette would all be delicious.
For a creamy option, try a Greek yogurt-based sauce with dill and cucumber.
Make-Ahead Tips and Storage
This recipe is best served fresh, but there are a few things you can do to prepare it in advance.
Here are some tips for making it ahead and storing leftovers.
### Preparing in Advance
You can prepare the pita chips and chop the toppings a few hours in advance.
Store the pita chips in an airtight container to keep them crispy.
Keep the chopped toppings in separate containers in the refrigerator.
You can also prepare the tzatziki sauce a day ahead.
### Cooking the fillet Ahead
You can bake the cod fillets a few hours in advance.
Let the cod cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator.
When you’re ready to assemble the nachos, simply flake the cod and add it to the platter.
### Storing Leftovers
Leftover nachos can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
However, the pita chips may become soggy over time.
To reheat the nachos, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated through.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These Greek fillet pita nachos are a great appetizer or light meal.
Here are some serving suggestions and pairings to make it a complete meal.
### Appetizer or Main Course
Serve these nachos as an appetizer for a Greek-themed dinner party.
You can also serve them as a light meal with a side salad.
For a heartier meal, add a bowl of Greek lemon chicken soup.
### Drink Pairings
Pair these nachos with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
A Greek beer like Mythos or Alpha would also be a great choice.
For a non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling water with lemon and mint.
### Dessert Pairings
End your meal with a classic Greek dessert like baklava or galaktoboureko.
Greek yogurt with honey and walnuts is another simple and delicious option.
Health Benefits of This Recipe
This Greek fillet pita nachos recipe is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits.
Here’s a breakdown of the key nutrients and health benefits of each ingredient.
### Cod is a Lean Protein Source
Cod is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues.
It’s also low in fat and calories, making it a healthy choice for weight management.
Cod is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and brain function.
### Mediterranean Diet Staples
This recipe incorporates many elements of the Mediterranean diet.
Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health.
Feta cheese is a good source of calcium and protein.
Kalamata olives are rich in antioxidants and healthy fats.
Fresh vegetables like tomatoes and red onion provide vitamins and minerals.
### Benefits of Whole Grains
Pita bread is a good source of whole grains, which are rich in fiber.
Fiber helps to regulate blood sugar levels and promotes digestive health.
Whole grains are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including iron and magnesium.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cod. Make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Pat the cod dry with paper towels before seasoning to remove excess moisture.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can make this recipe vegetarian. Simply substitute the cod with chickpeas or grilled halloumi cheese.
How long will the pita chips stay crispy?
The pita chips will stay crispy for a few hours if stored in an airtight container. However, they will eventually become soggy, especially if exposed to moisture.
Can I use pre-made pita chips?
Yes, you can use pre-made pita chips to save time. However, homemade pita chips tend to be more flavorful and crispy.
What is tzatziki sauce made of?
Tzatziki sauce is a Greek yogurt-based sauce made with cucumber, garlic, olive oil, dill, and lemon juice.
