Get ready to transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with these 20 irresistible copycat recipes from Cava! Whether you’re a fan of classic dips and spreads or hearty, flavorful dishes, we’ve got you covered. From tangy tzatziki sauce to spicy lamb meatballs, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the flavors and ingredients that define Mediterranean cuisine. You’ll discover how to make everything from creamy feta dip to roasted eggplant spread, and even learn some tricks for cooking up perfect pita bread at home. So grab your apron and get ready to dive in – we can’t wait to see what delicious creations you come up with!
Copycat Cava Crazy Feta Dip
Get ready to experience the creamy, tangy, and addictive flavors of Mediterranean cuisine with this copycat recipe for Cava’s famous Crazy Feta Dip. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be serving up a crowd-pleasing snack that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) block of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and crumbled feta cheese. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the Greek yogurt, garlic, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: None!
Homemade Cava Harissa Honey Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of honey with the spicy kick of harissa and cava. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup harissa sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon cava (or substitute with red wine vinegar)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together harissa sauce, honey, cava, and garlic.
3. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Remove chicken from the marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Copycat Cava Spicy Lamb Meatballs
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with these copycat Spicy Lamb Meatballs, reminiscent of the popular Cava restaurant chain. With a perfect balance of spices and lamb, these meatballs are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 egg
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
3. Add the egg and mix until just combined.
4. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
DIY Cava Tzatziki Sauce
Elevate your mealtime with this creamy and tangy Cava Tzatziki Sauce, perfect for dipping pita bread or serving alongside grilled meats. This DIY recipe is easy to make and requires just a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the grated cucumber, yogurt, feta cheese, garlic, and lemon juice.
2. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is best served chilled.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Cava Tzatziki Sauce!
Copycat Cava Roasted Eggplant Spread
Recreate the flavorful spread from Cava’s menu with this simple recipe. This roasted eggplant spread is a perfect dip for pita chips, vegetables, or crackers.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the eggplant halves, then sprinkle with garlic, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
4. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until the eggplant is tender and caramelized.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
6. Scoop the roasted eggplant flesh into a blender or food processor.
7. Add lemon juice and blend until smooth.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Homemade Cava Falafel Bites
Elevate your snack game with these flavorful and crunchy falafel bites, infused with the aromatic warmth of cumin and coriander. Perfect for a quick lunch or as a satisfying appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mash chickpeas using a fork or potato masher.
3. Add flour, baking powder, cumin, coriander, and salt. Mix until well combined.
4. Stir in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
5. Use your hands to shape mixture into small balls (about 1-inch/2.5 cm).
6. Place falafel bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each bite.
7. Brush tops with egg wash for an extra crispy coating.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Copycat Cava Lemon Herb Tahini Dressing
Get the same creamy, zesty flavor as Cava’s famous lemon herb tahini dressing at home! This easy recipe makes about 2 cups of dressing, perfect for topping salads, sandwiches, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, and dill. Blend until smooth.
2. With the blender running, slowly pour in the olive oil and water. Continue blending until emulsified.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! Simply blend and refrigerate.
DIY Cava Crazy Lentil Salad
Get ready to rave about this flavorful and healthy lentil salad recipe that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With the combination of tender lentils, crunchy vegetables, and tangy cava dressing, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons cava dressing (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
Instructions:
1. Cook lentils according to package instructions with water or broth.
2. Let cool, then mix with bell pepper, cucumber, parsley, and cava dressing.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh mint (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including lentil cooking time)
Copycat Cava Grilled Chicken Skewers
Inspired by the popular Mediterranean chain, these grilled chicken skewers are a delicious twist on traditional BBQ. With a hint of spice and a burst of freshness, they’re perfect for your next outdoor gathering or quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
6. Serve with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Cava Pita Bread
Transform your mealtime with a deliciously soft and flavorful pita bread infused with the savory taste of cumin, coriander, and paprika. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons cava spice blend (or combine equal parts ground cumin, coriander, and paprika)
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and cava spice blend; mix until smooth.
3. Gradually add flour, kneading the dough for 10-12 minutes or until it becomes elastic.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down dough and shape into 2-3 pita breads.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Copycat Cava Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Experience the authentic flavors of Mediterranean cuisine with this copycat recipe of Cava’s famous Roasted Red Pepper Hummus. This creamy dip is perfect for snacking, entertaining, or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup roasted red peppers (see note)
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 3 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Drain and rinse chickpeas.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, garlic, roasted red peppers, lemon juice, tahini, olive oil, and salt.
4. Blend on high speed until smooth, stopping to scrape down sides as needed.
5. Gradually add water and continue blending until desired consistency is reached.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Note: To roast red peppers, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place 2-3 red bell peppers on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until skin is blistered and charred. Peel off skin, remove seeds, and chop into small pieces.
DIY Cava Spicy Avocado Dip
Elevate your snack time with this creamy and zesty Cava Spicy Avocado Dip, perfect for veggies, chips, or crackers. This recipe is a twist on traditional guacamole, adding the bold flavors of cumin, coriander, and a hint of heat.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit. Scoop the flesh into a bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, lime juice, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper until smooth.
3. Add the yogurt mixture to the avocado and mash with a fork until combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This dip is ready when you are.
Enjoy your delicious Cava Spicy Avocado Dip!
Copycat Cava Harissa Carrots
Elevate your snack game with this copycat recipe of Cava’s Harissa Carrots, featuring a tangy and spicy kick. This addictive treat is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
– 1/2 cup harissa paste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together harissa paste, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Add the carrot sticks to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the spice mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread the carrots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
7. Garnish with parsley or cilantro leaves, if desired.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Cava Cucumber Tomato Salad
Elevate your summer gatherings with this effortless and flavorful salad featuring the sweetness of cucumbers, tomatoes, and cava. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large cucumbers, sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 cup cava (white wine vinegar)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cucumber slices and tomato dice.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together cava and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the cucumber-tomato mixture and toss gently.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served fresh.
Copycat Cava Garlic Dill Yogurt Sauce
Recreate the creamy and tangy flavors of Cava’s signature garlic dill yogurt sauce with this easy-to-make copycat recipe. Perfect for topping your favorite dishes or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt, garlic, and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Stir in the chopped dill, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
DIY Cava Grilled Halloumi
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with this flavorful DIY Cava Grilled Halloumi recipe, perfect for serving as an appetizer or snack. This easy-to-make treat combines the rich flavors of halloumi cheese, cava, and grilled goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese
– 1/4 cup of cava (red wine)
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the halloumi cheese into 1-inch thick slices.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the cava and olive oil.
4. Brush both sides of the halloumi slices with the cava mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
6. Grill the halloumi for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of char.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Copycat Cava Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your roasted sweet potatoes with the same flavors and spices used at Cava Grill. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the sweet potato cubes to the bowl and toss until they are well coated with the spice mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange the sweet potatoes in a single layer.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and caramelized, flipping them halfway through cooking.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Cava Pickled Onions
Elevate your meals with a tangy and flavorful condiment – homemade cava pickled onions! These sweet and sour onions are a perfect addition to sandwiches, salads, and tacos.
Ingredients:
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup (250ml) white wine vinegar (cava)
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cava, water, sugar, and salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Pack the sliced onions into a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the onions, making sure they are completely covered.
5. Seal the jar and let it cool to room temperature.
6. Store the pickled onions in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus refrigeration time)
Copycat Cava Spicy Turmeric Cauliflower
Get ready to taste the Mediterranean magic with this Copycat Cava Spicy Turmeric Cauliflower recipe, inspired by the popular Mediterranean chain. This flavorful and vibrant side dish is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro (if desired).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
DIY Cava Mediterranean Grain Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with whole grains, roasted vegetables, and a tangy yogurt sauce, perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups mixed roasted vegetables (such as Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, and red onions)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 oz plain Greek yogurt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, feta cheese, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic powder. Pour the sauce over the grain mixture and toss to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Top with Greek yogurt and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (includes cooking quinoa and roasting vegetables)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the flavors of the Mediterranean with these 20 irresistible copycat recipes from Cava! From savory dips and spreads to hearty meatballs and skewers, this collection has something for everyone. Discover the secrets to making Cava’s famous Crazy Feta Dip, Harissa Honey Chicken, Spicy Lamb Meatballs, and more. With a range of vegetarian and vegan options, as well as gluten-free and dairy-free alternatives, these recipes are perfect for any meal or gathering. So go ahead, get cooking, and taste the Mediterranean magic!
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