Chicken Salad with Whole Wheat Pita and Vegetable Sticks

Ingredients

• 3.25 cup whole wheat flour
• 1.25 cup warm water (around 105-115°F (40-46°C))
• 2.25 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tsp maple syrup (to activate the yeast)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1.5 tsp salt

Instructions

1. 1

   Activate the yeast

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, maple syrup, and active dry yeast.
   • Give it a gentle stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly. This indicates the yeast is active.
2. 2

   Prepare the dough

   • Add the whole wheat flour, olive oil, and salt to the yeast mixture.
   • Mix with a spatula or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
   • Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it's smooth and elastic.
   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
3. 3

   Shape the pitas

   • Gently punch down the risen dough to release the air.
   • Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and roll each into a smooth ball.
   • Cover the dough balls with a cloth and let them rest for 15 minutes.
   • On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball into a 6-inch circle, about 1/4-inch thick.
4. 4

   Cook the pitas

   • Heat a cast-iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat for at least 5 minutes. The pan must be very hot.
   • Carefully place one rolled-out pita onto the hot skillet.
   • Cook for about 30 seconds, until you see bubbles forming.
   • Flip the pita and cook for 1-2 minutes on the other side until it puffs up like a balloon.
   • Flip it back one more time and cook for another 30 seconds.
   • Remove from the skillet and wrap in a clean kitchen towel to keep them soft. Repeat with the remaining dough.

Ingredients

• 2 large Carrot (Washed and peeled)
• 1 large English Cucumber (Washed, peeling is optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Carrots

   • Wash, peel, and trim the ends of the carrots.
   • Cut them into 3 to 4-inch long segments.
   • Slice each segment into 1/4-inch thick planks, then stack the planks and cut them into uniform 1/4-inch sticks (batons).
2. 2

   Prepare the Cucumber

   • Wash the cucumber well and trim off both ends. Peeling is optional.
   • Cut it into 3 to 4-inch long segments.
   • Slice each segment in half lengthwise. For a less watery stick, use a small spoon to gently scoop out the seeds.
   • Place the halves cut-side down and slice them into 1/4-inch thick sticks.
3. 3

   Chill for Extra Crispness (Optional)

   • For the best texture, place the cut vegetable sticks in a bowl of ice water for 15-20 minutes.
   • Drain thoroughly and pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels before serving.
4. 4

   Arrange and Serve

   • Arrange the carrot and cucumber sticks on a platter, in a jar, or a tall glass.
   • Serve immediately with your favorite dip, such as hummus, tzatziki, or a light yogurt dip.