A Passport Full of Grilled Flatbreads

There are few things that say summer quite like gathering around the grill with family and friends. While burgers and hot dogs have earned their place at the cookout, this year I'd like to suggest something a little different...

Grilled flatbreads.

They're crisp around the edges, soft in the center, endlessly customizeable and the perfect canvas for flavors from around the world.

Think of this as your culinary passport. We'll start with one simple grilled flatbread dough, then "travel" from country to country with delicious topping combinations inspired by international cuisines. No airport security required.

Your Summer Flatbread Base

Easy Grilled Flatbread Dough

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 cup warm water

Combine the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. Add the olive oil and warm water, then mix until a dough forms.

Knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise for 1 hour.

Divide into 6 portions and roll each into an oval about ¼-inch thick. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil. Grill over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly charred and cooked through.

Now comes the fun part...

Stop #1: Italy

Bring the flavors of the Italian countryside to your backyard.

Top with:

• Fresh mozzarella

• Sliced heirloom tomatoes

• Prosciutto

• Fresh basil

• Balsamic glaze

• Extra virgin olive oil

Stop #2: Greece

Fresh, bright, and perfect for a warm summer evening.

Top with:

• Olive oil

• Baby spinach

• Crumbled feta

• Kalamata olives

• Roasted red peppers

• Cherry tomatoes

• Fresh oregano

Stop #3: Mexico

A colorful flatbread packed with bold flavors.

Top with:

• Refried black beans

• Grilled corn

• Cotija cheese

• Avocado

• Pickled red onions

• Cilantro

• Chipotle crema

Stop #4: Thailand

Sweet, savory, and just a little spicy.

Top with:

• Peanut sauce

• Grilled chicken

• Shredded carrots

• Cucumber ribbons

• Fresh cilantro

• Crushed peanuts

• Lime wedges

Stop #5: France

Simple elegance never goes out of style.

Top with:

• Caramelized onions

• Gruyère cheese

• Sautéed mushrooms

• Fresh thyme

• Cracked black pepper

Stop #6: India

Big flavors that make every bite exciting.

Top with:

• Tikka chicken

• Paneer

• Mint yogurt sauce

• Cilantro

• Pickled onions

• Garam masala

Stop #7: Turkey

Inspired by Mediterranean street food.

Top with:

• Seasoned grilled lamb

• Tomatoes

• Cucumber

• Parsley

• Sumac onions

• Garlic yogurt sauce

Stop #8: Korea

A delicious balance of sweet, savory, and spicy.

Top with:

• Bulgogi beef

• Kimchi

• Green onions

• Sesame seeds

• Gochujang aioli

Stop #9: Japan

Fresh, colorful, and full of umami.

Top with:

• Teriyaki chicken

• Shredded cabbage

• Scallions

• Kewpie mayonnaise

• Toasted sesame seeds

• Thin strips of nori

Stop #10: The USA

A backyard classic with a summer twist.

Top with:

• BBQ chicken

• Smoked gouda

• Grilled sweet corn

• Red onion

• Fresh cilantro

• BBQ drizzle

Make It a Flatbread Party

One of my favorite ways to serve these is by creating a DIY flatbread bar.

Set out bowls filled with cheeses, grilled vegetables, fresh herbs, sauces, proteins, and colorful toppings. Grill the flatbreads ahead of time, then let everyone build their own.

It's interactive, perfect for entertaining, and a great way to introduce family and friends to flavors they may not have tried before. This summer, let your grill become your passport. No matter which destination you choose first, you'll discover that one simple flatbread can take your taste buds just about anywhere.

Happy grilling and happy travels!