Homemade Pita Chips

I've mentioned using pita chips with some of the dips and snacks I've covered this week, so I thought today would be a great opportunity to share with you an easy pita chip recipe!

What you'll need:
1 pita bread -- whole-wheat Greek-style

Extra virgin olive oil
1 clove garlic -- minced
1 pinch dried oregano


What you'll do:
Preheat oven or toaster oven to 425 degrees.


Brush pita bread with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic and oregano. Place on small baking sheet and toast for about 5 minutes or until crisp and golden.

Cut into quarters and serve with Festive Southwest Cheese Dip, Summer Chicken Salad or your favorite dip / salad. Enjoy!

Summer Chicken Salad

Looking for something to do with your leftover chicken? Everyone loves a chicken salad sandwich, and what better way to honor the summer than by making some yummy additions to the classic chicken salad your mom used to make. Tired of sandwiches? Enjoy this recipe on crackers or pita chips as a quick snack or for your next pot luck.

What you'll need:

1 - 1 1/2 c. chopped chicken

1 tsp. chopped onion

1 tbsp. chopped green bell pepper

1 tbsp. chopped walnuts or pecans

2 tbsp. mayonnaise (not salad dressing) - add more if you prefer a creamier chicken salad

3-4  hard boiled eggs, coarsely chopped

1/4 c. chopped green onions

1/4 c/ chopped red apples (with skin)
1 tbsp. sweet relish
1 tbsp. dill relish
1/8 tsp. paprika
1/4 c. chopped red grapes

What you'll do:
Combine all ingredients listed above, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Enjoy!

Festive Southwest Cheese Dip

So this is THE BEST dip known to woman (or man). The ingredients are a little pricey (partially because there are so many!) but it is well worth adding this special treat to your rotation. Keeps well for a pot luck, party or even in a lunch bag. This dip is best served with pita chips or a Triscuit type cracker. The next time I make it, I'll be sure to add a photo.



What you'll need:
1 1/2 c. grated cheddar cheese
1 1/2 c. grated Monterrey jack or pepper jack cheese
1 c. grated Velveeta cheese
1 sm. can sliced black olives
1/2 large red bell pepper, finely chopped
3 finely chopped seeded jalapenos
1/4 c. finely chopped green onions
pinch of sea salt
1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 tsp. cumin
dash of lime / lemon juice
8 oz. soft cream cheese
3/4 c. mayonnaise (not salad dressing)


What you'll do:
Smash cream cheese, salt, juice and 1/2 c. mayonnaise together in a large bowl.


Stir in chopped red bell pepper, jalapenos, black olives and green onions.


Stir in cheeses. Stir in spices and the rest of the mayo to desired consistency.


Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve and enjoy!