Mediterranean Chickpea Flatbread with Whipped Feta and Summer Salad

This recipe is a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create a truly delightful dish. Imagine a crispy-edged, savory chickpea flatbread, known as socca, topped with a luscious cloud of whipped feta, and finished with a burst of juicy tomato salad. It's a combination of textures and flavors that is both satisfying and refreshing.

What is Socca?

Socca, also called farinata in Italy, is a thin, unleavened flatbread made from chickpea flour, water, olive oil, and salt. It's a popular street food with a wonderfully crispy exterior and a soft, almost creamy interior.

Why You'll Love This Recipe:

• Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these ingredients on hand.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend appetizer.
• Versatile: Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs and vegetables.
• Gluten-Free: Made with chickpea flour, it's naturally gluten-free.
• Delicious: The combination of crispy socca, creamy feta, and fresh salad is simply irresistible.

Ingredients:

For the Socca:

• 1 cup chickpea flour
• 1 1/4 cups water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for the pan
• 3/4 teaspoon salt

For the Whipped Feta:

• 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 ounces cream cheese, mascarpone, or thick yogurt
• Fresh herbs (such as thyme, basil, or rosemary), chopped

For the Tomato Salad:

• 2-3 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, sliced (optional)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1-2 tablespoons white vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 small clove garlic, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh chopped herbs, such as parsley or basil (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tomato Salad: In a medium bowl, combine the halved tomatoes, cucumber (if using), olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and any fresh herbs. Toss to combine and let sit while you prepare the other components.
2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a 10-inch cast iron skillet in the oven for 5 minutes to preheat.
3. Make the Socca Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the chickpea flour, water, olive oil, and salt until smooth.
4. Bake the Socca: Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil. Pour half of the socca batter into the hot skillet and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown around the edges. Repeat with the remaining batter.
5. Prepare the Whipped Feta: While the socca is baking, combine the crumbled feta, cream cheese (or other creamy alternative), and your chosen herbs in a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. Season with olive oil and black pepper to taste.
6. Assemble: Once the socca is baked, tear it into pieces. Spread or dip with the whipped feta and top with the tomato salad.
7. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Success:

• Crispy Edges: Preheating the skillet ensures crispy edges on your socca. Don't skip that step!
• Flour Choice: For best results, use high-quality chickpea flour. Bob's Mill is a good brand.
• Cast Iron Skillet: A cast iron skillet is ideal for achieving a crispy crust, but another oven-safe skillet may work too.
• Get Creative: Customize this recipe by adding other toppings, like roasted vegetables or grilled halloumi cheese. Also feel free to add your favorite herbs to the feta cream mix.

Enjoy

This simple dish is a perfect example of how delicious food doesn't have to be complicated. Enjoy the textures and flavors of this simple and healthy flatbread, perfect for a quick lunch or appetizer. This is one of those recipes that will have you coming back for more!