Flatbread is more than just a side dish - discovered in varied cuisines around the globe, it's extremely versatile. It’s perfect for mopping up those saucy delicacies, wrapping around scrumptious fillings like a burrito, or loading up with flavorsome toppings to make a mouthwatering snack, an appetizer, or a simple meal. We’re focusing on these more substantial options, revealing recipes that make flatbread the star of the dish - from homemade breads like focaccia topped with caramelized onion and potato, to smart time-savers using ready-made flatbread. You'll even find a tempting chocolate-cherry dessert flatbread included.

In the mood for something quick yet impressive? Smother a store-bought flatbread with a decadent miso-cream sauce, bake it with mushrooms, and finish it off with fresh arugula for a snack that's a crowd pleaser. For an appetizer with a twist, top naan with honey-glazed roasted carrots, plush basil chermoula, and creamy ricotta, a masterpiece created by chef Suzanne Cupps.

Beat the summer heat with a lighter option. Lay grilled zucchini, peppers, and squash on sangak, a enormous Persian flatbread. Post grilling, marinade these veggies and have sufficient time to prepare the smoky, tangy muhammara and grill the sangak until golden.

The hit dish from Maneet Chauhan, celebrity chef, involves spiced mashed potatoes with onion, cilantro, and grated paneer filled in naan-style flatbread, perfect for serving directly from the broiler or stovetop.

Store-bought flatbread comes as a savior when you're looking for fast, easy meals. Top it with a tangy zhoug, bresaola, cherry tomatoes, and arugula. Feeling adventurous? Swap bresaola with prosciutto or drizzle some hot honey.

Another must-try is a buttery whole-wheat Indian flatbread, filled with your chosen spicy carrots or smashed peas. Cooked in ghee on the griddle, pair it with yogurt or raita and Indian pickles, or with chutney.

Tempt your palate with chef Loryn Nalic's delightful creation - lightly charred fluffy flatbreads filled with cheese spread and tender Aleppo pepper-spiced asparagus. Take these out of the oven and top them with smoky ajvar, tangy cream, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Feeling flatbread for breakfast? Try m’smen, a rich Moroccan flatbread, as suggested by Gail Simmons. It can carry any dip and a hefty salad, or be the base for braised vegetables and meat. Pro tip: try it crisped up with a bit of butter or oil and served with harissa-spiced yogurt, merguez sausage, and eggs."

For a group meal, nothing beats a hot and cheesy focaccia topped with caramelized Spanish onions, thinly sliced fingerling potatoes, fresh thyme, and buttery robiola cheese. It makes four 8-inch flatbread slabs - perfect for sharing.

And when it comes to dessert, you can't skip the tart dried cherries and bittersweet chocolate-filled flatbread. Once baked, spread extra chocolate and top it off with powdered sugar and serve with cherry balsamic for dipping.

Remember, your flatbread adventure doesn't end here. Continue exploring new diverse ways to celebrate flatbread in your menu!