Za’atar is an aromatic Middle Eastern spice blend and a simple way to add flavor to many Mediterranean Diet inspired recipes.
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The Secret to the Mediterranean Diet
One of the reasons that I truly love The Mediterranean Diet is because the food is simple to prepare but so full of flavor.
The secret to the adding so much flavor to relatively simple ingredients is spices! Since really diving into the Mediterranean style of eating and cooking, my spice cabinet has grown tenfold.
One of my newest obsessions – Za’atar.
What is Za’atar?
Za’atar is a seasoning that originates from the Middle East. It’s name actually means “wild thyme” in Arabic.
This blend of herb and spices differs from country to country but typically consists of toasted sesame seeds, thyme, and sumac.
It’s dark green in color and so full of flavor that it can be used in so many ways!
How Do You Use Za’atar?
This aromatic spice blend goes so well with many different flavors.
Some of my favorite ways to use za’atar include –
- Adding to olive oil and dipping in fresh bread
- Adding to chicken and then baking with lemons, red onions, and potatoes for a flavor packed sheet pan dinner
- Adding to greek yogurt and using as a yogurt dip for veggies or on pita for chicken pita sandwiches
- Using as a spice rub for roasted veggies, sautéed fish, or steak
Where Do You Buy Za’atar
There are many stores that sell za’atar in the spice aisle. I’ve tried a few from my local supermarket chains but it wasn’t until I purchased Z&Z Za’atar that I absolutely fell in love!
Made from fresh ingredients purchased in Palestine, this family owned company (located in Washington, DC) makes one of the best tasting za’atar spice blends I’ve ever tried.
I also love the story behind their company and the recipes featured on their website. I’m a huge fan of family owned businesses that also participate in their local community.
Purchase Now on Amazon
Za’atar Recipes
Can’t wait to share some of my new favorite recipes featuring za’atar soon on the blog! In the meantime, feel free to check out some great Mediterranean Diet Recipes on my Pinterest.
Omg YUM! I LOVE za’atar. My favorite is sprinkling it on roasted eggplant with a lemon tahini sauce. It’s seriously delicious.
Za’atar is one of my absolute favorite spice blends! When I was living in Palm Dessert, CA our neighbors were from Jordan and they introduced me to this fantastic blend. I like the liiks of this one… plenty of toasted sesame seeds!
I haven’t ever tried za’atar but I’ve been wanting to! I’ll need to check out this spice blend – I’m always looking for new ones!
WOW. I want some with the olive oil and the bread, that looks amazing.
I LOVE cooking with za’atar. It’s such a versatile spice and can be used in so many recipes. Need to try this blend !
Yum! I love making zatar spiced pita chips, but I am definitely going to try it on some roasted veggies and fish!
I need to use this spice blend more often. Your pics make me want to put it on everything!
I love za’atar! I make a delicious flatbread with a ton of za’atar on the top, swimming in little pools of delicious olive oil. It goes with almost everything, even though it brings a strong flavor. I love shaking things up with an unusual spice blend! Great post.
Flatbread with za’atar sounds amazing!
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