Delicious Lavash Pica

This recipe is a delightful take on the classic pica, using lavash bread as the base to create a crispy, flavorful dish. Perfect for sharing with family or friends, it blends the savory flavors of smoked meat and salami with the freshness of peppers and pickles. Topped with a mix of shredded cheese and tangy sauces, each bite is a burst of taste and texture. It's easy to prepare, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a great choice for weekday dinners or casual gatherings. The combination of ketchup, spicy adjika, and creamy yogurt sauce adds depth and richness. Baking it quickly in the oven at high heat results in a beautifully crisp crust while keeping the toppings juicy and flavorful. The simplicity of the recipe allows for improvisation, catering to various dietary preferences or spice levels to suit everyone's taste. Served hot from the oven, this lavash pica is a guaranteed crowd pleaser. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and pleasing aroma that fill the kitchen as it bakes.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

Cheese (shredded)
Pickles (sliced)
2 onions (sliced)
1 pepper (sliced)
Smoked meat/bacon (sliced)
Salami (sliced)
Lavash bread

Sauces

Ketchup
Adjika
Spilva's Yogurt Sauce with Chives

Preparation Time

Total Time: 30 minutes

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Lavash Base: Lay out the lavash bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and easy removal after baking.
Spread the Sauces: Evenly spread a layer of ketchup on the lavash, followed by a thin layer of adjika. This will serve as the flavorful base for the toppings.
Add Cheese: Generously sprinkle shredded cheese over the sauce-covered lavash ensuring full coverage.
Arrange Toppings: Evenly distribute the sliced onions, peppers, pickles, smoked meat, and salami over the cheese layer. Make sure to spread the ingredients evenly for balanced flavors in every bite.
Additional Topping of Sauces: Drizzle a small amount of ketchup over the toppings for added tanginess.
More Cheese Please: Sprinkle another generous layer of cheese on top to help bind the toppings together when melted.
Yogurt Drizzle: Top off with a drizzle of Spilva's yogurt sauce with chives for creaminess and an extra herbaceous note.
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (around 392 degrees Fahrenheit) and allow it to preheat.
Bake the Pica: Place the prepared lavash pica in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes.
Monitor Cheese Melting: Keep an eye on the cheese and edges of the lavash; they should turn golden brown, indicating that the pica is ready.
Check Lavash: The base should be crispy yet easy to cut through to ensure that the lavash has baked thoroughly.
Cool Slightly: Remove from the oven with care, using the parchment paper to lift it off the baking sheet.
Slice the Pica: Use a sharp pizza cutter or a large knife to slice the lavash pica into manageable pieces.
Serve Immediately: To enjoy at its best, serve the pica right after slicing while it's hot and cheese is gooey.
Garnish suggestion: Optionally, garnish with some fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a burst of freshness.
Pair with Sides: Consider pairing with a fresh green salad or creamy coleslaw for a complete meal.
Enjoy the Experience: Share and enjoy this dish with friends or family.
Clean as You Go: Tidy up while the pica bakes to ensure a stress-free kitchen environment.
Store Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven to maintain the crisp texture.
Bon Appétit: Enjoy your homemade lavash pica with its rich and varied flavors.

Tips

Use Parchment Paper: Always line baking sheets with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Cheese Options: Feel free to use a blend of cheeses such as mozzarella or cheddar for varying flavors.
Vegetarian Option: Replace meats with mushrooms or extra peppers for a vegetarian version.
Spiciness Level: Adjust the amount of adjika according to your spice preference.
Crispier Base: For an even crispier base, pre-bake the lavash before adding toppings for a couple of minutes.

Nutritions

Calories per serving: 350
Protein: 15g
Fats: 20g
Carbs: 30g

Variations

Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free tortilla instead of lavash.
Vegan: Replace cheese with a vegan alternative and use plant-based yogurt sauce.
Extra Spicy: Add chili flakes for an extra kick of heat.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: Pair with a light salad or steamed vegetables.
Beverage Pairing: A crisp lager or refreshing iced tea complements the flavors well.
Dipping Sauce: Serve with additional yogurt sauce or a side of ranch for dipping.

Best Places

Pizzeria Mozza - Known for its gourmet pizzas with unique toppings and a great atmosphere. Location: 641 N Highland Ave, Los Angeles, USA.
Pizza Pilgrims - Famous for their Neapolitan-style picas made with fresh ingredients. Location: 11 Dean St, London, UK.
Da Michele - Renowned for its traditional picas in a lively setting. Location: Via Cesare Sersale, 1, Naples, Italy.
Di Fara Pizza - Offers iconic and delicious homemade pizza. Location: 1424 Avenue J, Brooklyn, USA.
Pizzeria Bianco - Celebrated for wood-fired picas and rustic charm. Location: 623 E Adams St, Phoenix, USA.
Gino Sorbillo - Traditional picas made with authentic techniques. Location: Via dei Tribunali, 32, Naples, Italy.
Pizzarium - Known for its gourmet, Roman-style pizza slices. Location: Via della Meloria, 43, Rome, Italy.
La Montecarlo - Offers a lively atmosphere with delectable picas. Location: Vicolo Savelli, 13, Rome, Italy.
Vinnie's Pizzeria - Fusion of creativity with traditional techniques. Location: 148 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, USA.
Roberta's - Celebrated for unique toppings and a rustic feel. Location: 261 Moore St, Brooklyn, USA.