Okay, so pita bread is great and all, but who doesn’t love a bit of variety? We’re always on the lookout for ways to switch up our meals without complicating things.
I remember the first time I tried a warm, soft pita and thought, “This. This is what I’ve been missing.” But sometimes, even our favorites can use a little step aside.
That’s where these pita bread alternatives come in. We’ll introduce you to six awesome swaps that bring new flavors and textures to your plate. We promise, you’ll want to try these out on your next meal.
6 Easy Substitutes for Pita Bread
For those who may not be familiar, pita bread is a Middle Eastern flatbread that is rounded and hollow in the middle. It’s typically used as a wrap for sandwiches or served with dips like hummus or baba ganoush.
While it’s delicious, there are times when you might want to mix things up and try something new. Here are six great alternatives to traditional pita bread:
Substitute | Taste | Texture | Ratio | Suitable Dish |
Naan Bread | Soft, slightly tangy | Soft, pliable | 1:1 | Indian dishes, wraps |
Flatbread | Neutral | Crispy, crunchy | 1:1 | Sandwiches, appetizers |
Focaccia | Herby, slightly sweet | Soft, airy | 1:1 | Italian dishes, sandwiches |
Lavash | Crispy, slightly salty | Crispy, thin | 1:1 | Middle Eastern dishes, wraps |
Tortilla | Mild, slightly sweet | Soft, pliable | 1:1 | Mexican dishes, wraps |
Crostini | Crispy, slightly buttery | Crispy, thin | 1:1 | Appetizers, snacks |
1 – Naan Bread
In case you haven’t discovered naan bread yet, you’re in for a treat. Naan is like pita’s fluffier cousin from South Asia.
It’s a bit thicker, so it’s great for those heartier fillings. Think of a wrap that hugs your fillings tight but stays soft with each bite. Swap it one for one with your pita bread in any recipe.
If you like a bit of chew and perfectly charred edges, naan’s got you covered. We love to warm it up lightly in the oven. It gives that fresh, homemade feel.
Next up, let’s explore more options!
2 – Flatbread
For those who need something super versatile, flatbread is your new BFF. It’s thin and crispy, perfect for quick meals or snacks. We love how it complements everything from savory fillings to sweet toppings.
Flatbread is usually softer than pita and has a more neutral taste. This makes it an ideal base for bold flavors.
Use it one-to-one in place of pita. It’s easy to find and quick to warm up. Wanna make a flatbread wrap? Just throw your favorite veggies and sauce, and you’re set.
3 – Focaccia
If you’re into a bread that’s light yet bursting with flavor, focaccia is perfect. We’re talking about bread that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
It’s basically a pizza crust’s cooler cousin. Great for sandwiches, or as a side for soups and salads.
Focaccia brings in a hit of olive oil and herbs. A treat for those who love simple yet rich tastes.
Swap focaccia for pita bread in a 1:1 ratio. Warm it up slightly, and you’re good to go.
Try it out next time you want a tasty bread upgrade!
4 – Lavash
In terms of versatility, lavash is an all-star. This soft, thin flatbread hails from Armenia and packs a punch as a pita substitute. Lavash is pliable and great for wraps or layering in casseroles. We love how it doesn’t overpower your dish but instead lets the fillings shine.
Ever tried lavash? It’s like pita, but easier to manage. Wrap your favorite ingredients, toast it slightly, and you’ve got a meal. The texture is different; it’s more flexible than pita, making it perfect for intricate wraps.
For substitutions, use lavash in a one-to-one swap with pita. Grab some next time you’re at the store!
5 – Tortilla
Tortillas are next on our list! Soft, versatile, and oh-so-delicious. We use these all the time for wraps, quesadillas, and even as a quick pizza base. They’re thinner than pita and have a chewiness that’s just perfect.
Tortillas shine with all kinds of fillings, from grilled veggies to savory meats. They’re easy to roll and don’t overpower your dish. Use them in a 1:1 swap with pita.
Warm them up slightly for best results.
6 – Crostini
Last on our list, we’re diving into crostini. These little toasted slices of heaven are great for adding some crunch to your meal. Crostini are sliced thin, toasted, and often rubbed with a bit of garlic and drizzled in olive oil. They’re like bite-sized pieces of joy that you can top with anything.
Here’s why crostini work as a pita substitute: they add a crispy texture that’s perfect for dips or as a base for your favorite toppings. They’re a little unconventional but give a fun twist to your meals.
We love them for quick snacks and party platters. Grab a baguette, slice it thin, and toast. Swap crostini for pita in a 1:1 ratio and enjoy the crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, naan bread is a good substitute for pita, offering a soft, chewy texture and a slightly different flavor profile.
Yes, flatbread is very similar to pita bread in texture and can be used as a substitute in most dishes.
Focaccia can be used in place of pita bread, though it has a thicker and denser texture, which may change the overall feel of the dish.
Lavash bread is a great alternative to pita in wraps due to its flexibility and mild flavor.
Crostini can be used as an alternative, but it will have a crispier texture, making it more suitable for toppings rather than wraps.

Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.