Zaatar, a Middle Eastern herb blend, has been a staple in many cuisines for centuries. Its earthy, slightly nutty flavor adds depth and complexity to a wide range of dishes, from savory meats and vegetables to sweet treats like breads and salads. In this article, we’ll explore the versatility of zaatar by showcasing 20 mouth-watering recipes that will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.
From classic roasted chicken to innovative stuffed peppers, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, zaatar is an ingredient that’s easy to work with and can elevate even the simplest of dishes into something truly special.
In this series, we’ll dive deeper into each recipe, providing step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure your culinary success. So, let’s get started and discover the magic of zaatar!
Zaatar Roasted Chicken with Lemon and Garlic
Experience the bold flavors of Morocco with this aromatic roasted chicken dish, infused with the warmth of zaatar, the brightness of lemon, and the pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp zaatar spice blend
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, zaatar, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the sliced lemon inside the cavity of the chicken.
6. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Zaatar Flatbread with Olive Oil Drizzle
This Middle Eastern-inspired flatbread is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, topped with a drizzle of rich olive oil. Perfect for a quick snack or as part of a mezze platter.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon Zaatar mix (thyme, oregano, marjoram)
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Add Zaatar mix and water, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
6. Punch down the dough and roll out into thin sheets.
7. Brush with olive oil and bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Zaatar and Feta Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory goodness of zaatar and feta cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as an impressive addition to your holiday table.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1/2 cup zaatar (Middle Eastern herb mix)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together zaatar, feta cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the zaatar mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Zaatar Roasted Potatoes with Garlic Aioli
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful combination of roasted potatoes and creamy garlic aioli, infused with the aromatic warmth of zaatar. Perfect for a quick bite or as a side dish for your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
For the Zaatar Roasted Potatoes:
– 2-3 large potatoes, cut into wedges
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup zaatar (or to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Garlic Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss potatoes with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and zaatar. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Roast potatoes for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, mix garlic, mayonnaise, and lemon juice in a bowl.
5. Serve roasted potatoes with garlic aioli for dipping.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zaatar Hummus with Toasted Pita Chips
This aromatic dip combines the classic flavors of hummus with the warm, earthy notes of zaatar. Serve it with crispy toasted pita chips for a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon zaatar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Pita bread, cut into triangles
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and zaatar. Blend until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat.
5. Toast pita chip triangles for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until crispy.
6. Serve the hummus with toasted pita chips.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Zaatar Spiced Lamb Kebabs
Experience the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with these aromatic lamb kebabs infused with the warmth of zaatar, a blend of herbs and spices. Perfect for a quick dinner or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 500g lamb shoulder or leg, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– 1 tsp zaatar powder
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and zaatar powder.
3. Add the lamb cubes and toss to coat evenly with the marinade. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Thread the marinated lamb onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill the kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Zaatar and Olive Oil Dip with Fresh Vegetables
This flavorful dip combines the aromatic spices of zaatar with the richness of olive oil, perfect for snacking on fresh vegetables. Enjoy the perfect blend of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup zaatar (a mix of thyme, oregano, marjoram, and sumac)
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
– Fresh vegetables for dipping (carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together zaatar and olive oil until well combined.
2. Add lemon juice and salt to taste; stir to combine.
3. Arrange fresh vegetables on a serving platter or board.
4. Serve the zaatar dip alongside the fresh vegetables for dipping.
5. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in no time!)
Zaatar Roasted Carrots with Yogurt Sauce
This flavorful side dish combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the earthy warmth of zaatar and a tangy yogurt sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized sticks
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp zaatar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, zaatar, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, and parsley to create the sauce.
5. Serve roasted carrots with yogurt sauce drizzled over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zaatar and Halloumi Cheese Salad
This refreshing salad combines the earthy flavors of zaatar with the creamy richness of halloumi cheese, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
– 1 tablespoon of zaatar
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh mint
– 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced halloumi cheese, zaatar, parsley, and mint.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, tossing gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Zaatar Infused Olive Oil for Bread Dipping
This flavorful oil adds a delicious Middle Eastern twist to your bread dipping experience. With the warmth of zaatar and the richness of olive oil, you’ll be hooked from the first dip!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons zaatar (a blend of thyme, oregano, marjoram, and toasted sesame seeds)
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil and zaatar.
2. Stir until the zaatar is fully incorporated into the oil, creating a fragrant and flavorful mixture.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if desired.
4. Store the infused oil in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: None! Simply prepare and use as needed.
Enjoy your zaatar-infused olive oil on crusty bread, pita chips, or vegetables for a flavorful dip that will transport you to the Mediterranean.
Zaatar and Sumac Roasted Cauliflower
This recipe combines the earthy sweetness of cauliflower with the vibrant, aromatic flavors of zaatar and sumac. A perfect side dish for any meal, this roasted cauliflower is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp zaatar
– 1/2 tsp ground sumac
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, zaatar, sumac, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
6. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zaatar Spiced Grilled Fish with Lemon
Experience the bold flavors of the Middle East with this simple yet impressive recipe. Zaatar’s earthy, nutty notes pair perfectly with the brightness of lemon, making for a refreshing and flavorful grilled fish dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (white or dark meat), about 6 oz each
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp zaatar spice blend
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, zaatar, salt, and black pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the fish fillets.
4. Place fish on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and squeeze lemon juice over the top of each fillet.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Zaatar and Tomato Focaccia Bread
This flavorful flatbread combines the brightness of fresh tomatoes with the warm, earthy flavors of zaatar. Perfect for a quick snack or as a side to your favorite Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons zaatar
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour and yeast.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Punch down the dough, shape into a rectangle, and spread with olive oil.
7. Top with chopped tomatoes, zaatar, and salt.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zaatar Roasted Eggplant with Tahini Drizzle
Elevate your eggplant game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of tahini with the herby goodness of zaatar. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as an impressive side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp zaatar
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the eggplants into 1-inch thick rounds.
3. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, zaatar, and salt. Add the eggplant slices and toss to coat.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer.
5. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
6. Meanwhile, mix tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a bowl.
7. Drizzle the tahini mixture over the roasted eggplants and garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro (if using).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Zaatar and Chickpea Stuffed Zucchini
This recipe combines the freshness of zucchini with the aromatic flavors of zaatar, chickpeas, and Mediterranean spices. A perfect vegetarian option for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
– 2 tablespoons zaatar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh to make room for the filling.
3. In a bowl, mix together chickpeas, zaatar, olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
4. Stuff each zucchini with the chickpea mixture, dividing it evenly among the four zucchinis.
5. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 30-35 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Zaatar Spiced Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
Experience the rich flavors of the Middle East with this unique meatball recipe that combines the warmth of za’atar spice blend with the comfort of a classic tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon za’atar spice blend
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, olive oil, garlic, za’atar spice blend, and breadcrumbs. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are cooking, heat crushed tomatoes and chopped onion in a large saucepan over medium-low heat.
6. Add cooked meatballs to the tomato sauce and simmer for an additional 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Zaatar and Avocado Toast with Poached Eggs
Elevate your breakfast game with this flavorful Zaatar and Avocado Toast with Poached Eggs. A perfect blend of creamy, herby, and savory, this dish is sure to start your day off right.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 tbsp Zaatar (Middle Eastern herb mix)
– 2 poached eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Sprinkle the Zaatar evenly over the avocado.
4. Poach the eggs by cracking them into a pot of simmering water and cooking for 3-4 minutes or until desired doneness.
5. Place the poached eggs on top of the avocado-Zaatar mixture.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Zaatar Roasted Pumpkin with Feta Crumble
Elevate your fall dinner party with this flavorful and aromatic side dish that combines the warmth of roasted pumpkin with the tanginess of feta crumble, all tied together by the earthy essence of zaatar.
Ingredients:
– 1 small to medium-sized pumpkin (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/4 cup zaatar
– Salt, to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the pumpkin in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, cumin, coriander, and zaatar.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto both pumpkin halves.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until pumpkin is tender.
7. While pumpkin roasts, crumble feta cheese into small pieces.
8. Remove pumpkin from oven and top each half with feta crumbles.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Zaatar and Pomegranate Quinoa Salad
This vibrant salad combines the earthy goodness of quinoa with the bright, fruity flavor of pomegranate, all tied together with the aromatic spices of zaatar. Perfect for a light and refreshing lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon zaatar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds (fresh or dried)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth. Let cool.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and zaatar.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, parsley, pomegranate seeds, and zaatar mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (quinoa cooking time)
Zaatar Spiced Roasted Nuts for Snacking
Elevate your snacking game with this aromatic blend of roasted nuts, infused with the warm, earthy flavors of zaatar. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a satisfying addition to your favorite salads and bowls.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon zaatar spice blend (or substitute with dried oregano and thyme)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, zaatar, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Add the mixed nuts and toss until evenly coated.
4. Spread the nut mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until fragrant and lightly toasted.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your flavorful Zaatar Spiced Roasted Nuts as a healthy snack, or use them to add a burst of flavor to your favorite dishes!
Summary
Discover the flavor of Zaatar with these 20 delicious recipes! From savory meats to sweet treats, Zaatar adds a unique and aromatic twist. Try roasting chicken with lemon and garlic, making flatbread with olive oil drizzle, or stuffing peppers with feta cheese. Get creative with dips like hummus with toasted pita chips or yogurt sauce for roasted carrots. Explore the versatility of Zaatar in dishes like spiced lamb kebabs, grilled fish, or quinoa salads. Whatever your taste, there’s a recipe here that’s sure to delight!
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