Breakfast Flatbread with Hummus

I stumbled upon the idea for this breakfast flatbread on a particularly chaotic Tuesday morning. The usual routine of cereal or toast had become monotonous, and my family was in a breakfast rut. I needed something fast, satisfying, and a little bit different. Rummaging through the fridge, I saw a tub of hummus, a few eggs, and some leftover flatbreads from the weekend. A lightbulb went off. Could this work? I decided to give it a shot, adding some fresh vegetables and a sprinkle of cheese. The result was nothing short of a revelation. The warm, soft flatbread, the creamy and savory hummus, the perfectly runny egg yolk creating its own sauce—it was a symphony of textures and flavors. My kids, usually skeptical of new breakfast foods, devoured their portions and asked for it again the next day. For my husband, who prefers a heartier start, I added some savory, seasoned beef crumbles on his, which he declared the “perfect addition.” This recipe has since become our go-to for busy weekdays and lazy weekend brunches alike. It’s incredibly versatile, stunningly simple, and proves that an elegant, delicious breakfast doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like a culinary genius, even before you’ve had your first cup of coffee.

Ingredients

Here is everything you will need to create this delightful and satisfying breakfast. The measurements are for two flatbreads, but they can be easily scaled up to feed a larger family.

• Flatbreads: 2 large (8-10 inch) pieces. You can use store-bought naan, pita bread, or any other type of flatbread you prefer. A slightly thicker, chewier flatbread works best to hold the toppings.
• Hummus: 1/2 cup. Classic, plain hummus provides a perfect creamy base, but feel free to experiment. Roasted red pepper or roasted garlic hummus add an extra layer of flavor.
• Large Eggs: 2. Fresh, high-quality eggs will make a noticeable difference, as the yolk is a star ingredient.
• Feta Cheese: 1/4 cup, crumbled. The salty, briny flavor of feta cheese cuts through the richness of the hummus and egg beautifully.
• Cherry Tomatoes: 1/2 cup, halved. These add a burst of juicy sweetness and a pop of vibrant color.
• Cucumber: 1/4 cup, finely diced. Adds a refreshing, cool crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the warm flatbread.
• Red Onion: 2 tablespoons, thinly sliced. Provides a sharp, zesty bite. If you find raw onion too strong, you can soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow the flavor.
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon, extra virgin. Used for drizzling, it adds richness and a touch of fruity, peppery flavor.
• Optional Savory Addition: 1/2 cup cooked seasoned beef crumbles or diced cooked ham. For a heartier, more protein-packed breakfast, this is a fantastic addition.
• Fresh Parsley or Cilantro: 2 tablespoons, chopped, for garnish. Fresh herbs are essential for brightening up the dish with their fresh, aromatic flavor.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. For seasoning the eggs and the final dish.
• Red Pepper Flakes or Za’atar Seasoning: Optional, for garnish. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a little heat, while za’atar brings a classic, herby, and tangy Mediterranean flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to assemble and cook your breakfast flatbreads to perfection. This process is quick and ensures all the components come together for a warm, delicious meal.

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Place your two flatbreads on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Create the Hummus Base: Spoon the hummus onto the center of each flatbread. Using the back of the spoon, spread it evenly across the surface, leaving about a half-inch border around the edges. This border will become wonderfully crisp in the oven.
3. Make a Well for the Egg: With your spoon, gently create a small, shallow well in the center of the hummus on each flatbread. This little indentation will help hold the egg in place and prevent it from running off the side while it bakes.
4. Add the Egg and Savory Toppings: Carefully crack one egg into the well you created on each flatbread. If you are using the optional beef crumbles or diced ham, sprinkle them around the egg on the hummus base now. Season each egg with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
5. First Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 5-7 minutes. This initial baking period is just to set the egg whites slightly before adding the fresh vegetable toppings. Keep a close eye on it; you want the whites to be just beginning to turn opaque.
6. Add Cheese and Bake Again: Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the flatbreads, avoiding covering the yolk if possible. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for another 5-8 minutes. The total cooking time will depend on how you like your eggs. For a runny yolk, aim for the shorter end of the time range. For a firmer, jammy yolk, let it cook a bit longer. The flatbread edges should be golden brown and crisp.
7. Prepare Fresh Toppings: While the flatbreads are in their final baking stage, you can prepare your fresh toppings. In a small bowl, gently toss together the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion.
8. Garnish and Serve: Once the flatbreads are cooked to your liking, carefully remove them from the oven. Let them cool for just a minute. Top each flatbread with the fresh tomato-cucumber-onion mixture. Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley (or cilantro) and a pinch of red pepper flakes or za’atar, if using. Serve immediately while warm.

Nutrition Facts

This recipe is not only delicious but also packs a balanced nutritional punch to start your day right.

• Servings: 2
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450-550 kcal (This can vary based on the type of flatbread and if a savory meat addition is used).
• Protein (Approx. 20-25g): With protein from the egg, hummus, feta cheese, and optional meat, this breakfast is excellent for satiety. Protein helps keep you feeling full and satisfied throughout the morning, reducing the urge for mid-morning snacks.
• Healthy Fats (Approx. 20-25g): The olive oil, hummus (which contains tahini), and egg yolk provide a good source of healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These fats are crucial for brain health and absorbing fat-soluble vitamins.
• Fiber (Approx. 8-10g): The whole-wheat flatbread (if used) and hummus (made from chickpeas) are great sources of dietary fiber. Fiber aids in digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and contributes to that lasting feeling of fullness.
• Complex Carbohydrates (Approx. 35-45g): The flatbread provides complex carbohydrates, which are your body’s primary source of energy. This will give you the sustained fuel you need to power through your morning without a sugar crash.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Thanks to the colorful array of vegetables, this dish is rich in vitamins like Vitamin C from the tomatoes and various B vitamins from the egg and hummus. The feta cheese also provides a good dose of calcium.

Preparation Time

This recipe is designed for speed and efficiency, making it a perfect option for busy mornings.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients, chopping the fresh vegetables, and assembling the flatbreads on the baking sheet.
• Cook Time: 10-15 minutes. The total time in the oven depends on your oven’s efficiency and your preference for egg doneness.
• Total Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes from start to finish. In less than half an hour, you can have a gourmet-quality, hot, and satisfying breakfast on the table.

How to Serve

Presentation can elevate this simple dish into a brunch-worthy centerpiece. Here are a few ways to serve your Breakfast Flatbread with Hummus:

• Whole and Hearty:
  • Serve the flatbread whole on a large plate.
  • Place a knife and fork alongside it for a civilized, sit-down breakfast experience.
  • This presentation is best for showcasing the beautiful sunny-side-up egg in the center.
• Sliced Like a Pizza:
  • Use a pizza cutter or a sharp knife to slice the flatbread into four or six wedges.
  • Arrange the slices on a platter for sharing. This is a fantastic option for a family breakfast or a weekend brunch with friends, as it allows everyone to grab a slice easily.
  • This method is also great for kids, as the smaller pieces are easier for them to handle.
• Pairings and Accompaniments:
  • Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside a small bowl of fresh berries, melon slices, or citrus segments to add a sweet, refreshing contrast.
  • Simple Green Salad: For a more substantial brunch, pair it with a simple arugula salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens complement the creamy hummus perfectly.
  • Beverages: This breakfast pairs wonderfully with a strong cup of coffee, a frothy latte, or a pot of hot tea (like mint or English breakfast). For a refreshing non-caffeinated option, a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice is a classic choice.
  • Extra Dips: Serve with a small bowl of extra hummus or a side of tzatziki for dipping the crispy crusts.

Additional Tips

Unlock the full potential of this recipe with these eight professional tips and tricks.

1. Choose the Right Flatbread: The foundation matters. While any flatbread works, a thicker, chewier variety like naan or a fluffy Greek-style pita holds up better to the toppings and moisture. Thinner, cracker-like flatbreads can become soggy or break easily.
2. Get Creative with Hummus: Don’t limit yourself to plain hummus. This is your chance to experiment! Roasted garlic hummus adds a deep, savory flavor, while a spicy jalapeño hummus can give your breakfast a serious kick. A roasted red pepper or sun-dried tomato hummus can add a touch of sweetness and color.
3. Ensure a Crispy Bottom: For an extra-crispy crust, pre-bake the plain flatbread directly on the oven rack for 2-3 minutes before adding any toppings. This helps to dry out the surface slightly, creating a barrier against moisture from the hummus and ensuring a non-soggy result.
4. Master the Egg: For a perfectly contained egg, make sure the well in your hummus is deep enough. If you’re still worried about spillage, you can crack the egg into a small ramekin first, then gently slide it from the ramekin into the well on the flatbread. This gives you more control.
5. Don’t Cook the Fresh Veggies: The magic of this dish is the contrast between the warm, cooked base and the cool, crisp toppings. Adding the tomato, cucumber, and onion after baking keeps them fresh, crunchy, and vibrant. If you cook them with the flatbread, they will become soft and lose their refreshing texture.
6. Make it Vegan-Friendly: This recipe is easily adaptable for a vegan diet. Simply omit the egg and feta cheese. In place of the egg, you can add more vegetables, some savory mushrooms, or a scoop of a simple tofu scramble after baking. Use a vegan-friendly flatbread and top with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
7. Spice it Up with Za’atar: For a truly authentic Mediterranean flavor profile, a generous sprinkle of za’atar seasoning is a must. This Middle Eastern spice blend, typically made with thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac, adds a tangy, herby, and nutty flavor that is simply irresistible with hummus and egg.
8. Meal Prep the Components: To make your morning even faster, you can prep the components ahead of time. Chop the cucumber, onion, and parsley and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Halve the cherry tomatoes. This way, in the morning, all you have to do is assemble and bake, cutting your total time down to just 15 minutes.

FAQ Section

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about this breakfast flatbread recipe.

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh and hot from the oven, you can prepare the components in advance as mentioned in the tips. Assembling and baking the entire flatbread ahead of time is not recommended, as the bread will become soggy upon reheating and the fresh toppings will wilt. For the best experience, assemble and bake just before you plan to eat.

2. My flatbread got soggy. How can I prevent this?
Sogginess is the enemy! There are three key ways to prevent it. First, use a thicker flatbread. Second, pre-bake the flatbread for a couple of minutes before adding toppings to create a moisture barrier. Third, don’t go overboard with the hummus; a thin, even layer is all you need. Following these steps will ensure a perfectly crisp crust.

3. Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! This recipe is very forgiving. You can use large whole-wheat tortillas for a thinner, crispier “breakfast pizza” experience. A split ciabatta roll or a thick slice of sourdough toast can also work as a delicious base. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly depending on the thickness and type of bread you choose.

4. Is this breakfast flatbread with hummus recipe healthy?
Yes, it is a well-balanced and nutritious meal. It provides a healthy mix of protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. The inclusion of fresh vegetables adds essential vitamins and fiber. It’s a much healthier and more satisfying alternative to sugary cereals or pastries, providing sustained energy for your morning.

5. What other toppings would work well on this?
The sky is the limit! Think of it as a breakfast pizza. Other great toppings include:

• Vegetables: Sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach (add with the cheese), or Kalamata olives.
• Cheese: Goat cheese, shredded mozzarella, or a sprinkle of Parmesan.
• Greens: Top with fresh arugula after baking for a peppery bite.
• Sauce: A swirl of pesto or a drizzle of balsamic glaze at the end can add another dimension of flavor.

6. Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?
Yes, an air fryer is a great tool for this! It will make the flatbread extra crispy. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Assemble the flatbread as directed and carefully place it in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 6-10 minutes, or until the egg is cooked to your liking and the edges are golden. You may need to cook one flatbread at a time depending on the size of your air fryer.

7. How should I store and reheat leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. The fresh toppings will lose some of their crispness. To reheat, the best method is in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help re-crisp the flatbread. Reheating in a microwave is not recommended as it will make the bread soft and chewy.

8. What is the best kind of hummus to use for a breakfast recipe?
While a classic, plain hummus is a fantastic and reliable choice, the “best” kind depends on your personal preference. For breakfast, a savory and not-too-overpowering flavor works well. Roasted Garlic, Toasted Pine Nut, or a simple Lemon-flavored hummus are all excellent choices that complement the egg and fresh vegetables without dominating the dish. It’s best to avoid very bold or sweet flavors, like chocolate hummus, for this particular recipe.