Crispy Arayes Stuffed with Spicy Cheddar

Servings: 8

• 4-5 Pita Bread
• 1 ½ cups Organic Valley FlavorFavorites Spicy Cheddar
• 2 tbsp. Olive Oil
• 1 lb. Lean Ground Beef
• ½ Red Onion, very finely chopped or grated
• 2-3 Garlic Cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp. Fresh Basil or Parsley, chopped
• (Optional) 1 tbsp. Fresh Mint, chopped
• 1 Lemon
• 2 tsp. EACH: Paprika, & GroundCumin
• 1 tsp. EACH: Salt, Black Pepper,& Ground All Spice
• Tzatziki or Creamy Basil Aioli, for serving

1. Preheat oven to 400F. Line a baking pan with parchment paper. 
2. In a bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, chopped herbs, lemon zest, and seasonings. Mix just until combined. If time allows, let marinate for 10-30minutes. 
3. Slice the pita breads in halve to create pita pockets.
4. Evenly divide the meat mixture out between the halve pitas. Add half the meat into each pita, add 1-2 tablespoons spicy cheddar, then the remaining meat to seal in the cheese.  Flatten slightly or press in the palm of your hands to secure the meat inside the pitas.
5. (Optional) If you prefer smaller arayes, use a serrated knife to slice the pita halves in half again to make quarters.
6. Heat up the griddle over medium heat for 2 minutes. 
7. Add a drizzle of olive oil. Cook for 1-2 minute on all sides, until golden brown and crispy. 
8. Transfer to the baking sheet to finish cooking in the oven 5-12 minutes, depending on how thick you make the arayes. 
9. Enjoy warm with tzatziki or a creamy basil dipping sauce!