In a bustling little café tucked away in the heart of the city, I stumbled upon a dish that forever changed my perspective on flatbreads. The air was fragrant with fresh herbs, and the vibrant colors of the presentation sparked my imagination. Inspired, I decided to create a unique twist on traditional flatbreads, integrating protein-packed quinoa and a zesty avocado spread. This recipe combines the warmth of the oven with the refreshing kick of spices, making for a delightful creation that can be enjoyed at any time of day.
Ingredients
For the Flatbreads:
1 cup quinoa (rinsed and drained)
1 ¾ cups water
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 tablespoon mixed dried herbs (oregano, thyme, and basil)
½ cup whole wheat flour (plus extra for dusting)
For the Spicy Avocado Spread:
2 ripe avocados
1 clove garlic (minced)
1 lime (juiced)
1 small jalapeño (seeded and finely chopped)
¼ teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions
Begin by cooking the quinoa. In a saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with water and salt. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Allow it to simmer for about 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy. Let it cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, olive oil, baking powder, dried herbs, and whole wheat flour. Mix until you form a dough. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour until it becomes manageable.
Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. On a floured surface, roll each ball out into thin circles, about ¼ inch thick. Make sure to dust with flour to prevent sticking.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the rolled-out flatbreads onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until they are lightly golden and crisped at the edges.
While the flatbreads are baking, prepare the spicy avocado spread. In a bowl, mash the ripe avocados with a fork. Stir in the minced garlic, lime juice, chopped jalapeño, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Once the flatbreads are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Spread a generous amount of the spicy avocado mixture on each flatbread, garnishing with fresh cilantro leaves.
This dish is perfect for a light lunch, a snack while entertaining, or served as an appetizer at your next gathering. Each bite is a harmonious blend of earthy flavors and zesty freshness. Enjoy your creation and the memories it inspires!