Discover the Best Middle Eastern Zaatar Recipes: Flavorful Delights You Can Try Today

Zaatar, the beloved spice blend of the Middle East, continues to enchant food lovers around the world with its aromatic and tangy flavor. A true pantry staple, it has a versatile range of culinary uses, from classic baked goods to innovative dishes. In our previous blog post Zaatar: Exploring Its History, Varieties, and Culinary Delights, we dove into the rich history of zaatar, uncovering its ancient roots and different varieties. Now, it’s time to take that knowledge a step further and explore the most popular recipes using this vibrant spice blend across the Middle East.

At Izz Café, we celebrate zaatar daily in some of our most popular menu items. Our zaatar manaeesh and zaatar with cheese manaeesh have become customer favorites, perfectly showcasing the balance between simplicity and flavor that zaatar offers. But manaeesh isn’t the only way to enjoy this unique blend. Let’s look at some of the most popular ways you can enjoy zaatar at home!

1. Manaeesh: The Classic Zaatar Flatbread

Manaeesh is a go-to breakfast in many Middle Eastern homes. These warm, pillowy flatbreads are spread with a generous mixture of zaatar and olive oil, then baked until golden and fragrant. The earthy and zesty flavor of zaatar shines in this simple, satisfying dish. At Izz Café, our traditional zaatar manaeesh and zaatar with cheese manaeesh are fan favorites, offering that irresistible combination of tangy spice and melted, savory cheese.

2. Zaatar Roasted Chicken

For a savory twist on a weeknight dinner, zaatar roasted chicken is a must-try. Rub the chicken with olive oil and a generous amount of zaatar before roasting it to perfection. The herbaceous and tangy flavor of zaatar enhances the chicken’s natural flavors, giving it a crispy, flavorful skin. Served with rice or a fresh salad, this dish makes for a delightful and aromatic meal.

3. Zaatar with Labneh: A Perfect Dip

A simple, yet flavorful appetizer or snack involves sprinkling zaatar over creamy labneh (strained yogurt) and drizzling it with olive oil. Served with warm pita bread, zaatar and labneh create a perfect balance of creaminess and spice, offering a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.

4. Zaatar-Crusted Fish

Zaatar adds a deliciously herbaceous crust to fish fillets, whether grilled, pan-seared, or baked. This recipe works particularly well with white fish like cod or sea bass. Coating the fish in a zaatar and olive oil mixture before cooking gives it a crunchy, tangy crust that pairs wonderfully with a squeeze of lemon and a fresh green salad.

5. Zaatar Salad: A Tangy Touch

Zaatar can also be sprinkled over fresh salads to add a zesty twist. Fattoush, a Levantine salad made with crispy pita, fresh vegetables, and a lemony dressing, is elevated with a sprinkle of zaatar, providing an extra layer of flavor. Try adding zaatar to your favorite salad recipe for a vibrant Middle Eastern touch.

6. Zaatar Crackers

For a crunchy snack, zaatar crackers are perfect for dipping into hummus or other spreads. Made by cutting pita bread or pastry dough into small pieces, brushing with olive oil, and sprinkling with zaatar, these crackers are baked until golden and crispy. They’re easy to make at home and are a healthier alternative to store-bought snacks.

7. Zaatar Pizza: A Fusion Favorite

For those looking to combine traditional flavors with a modern twist, try zaatar pizza! Swap the usual pizza sauce for a zaatar and olive oil spread, and top it with your favorite vegetables, cheese, or meats. The result is a Middle Eastern-inspired pizza with a burst of zesty flavor in every bite.

8. Zaatar Scrambled Eggs

Zaatar adds a punch of flavor to your morning scrambled eggs. Simply sprinkle a pinch of zaatar over your eggs while cooking to infuse them with its signature tang. Pair the eggs with fresh bread and olives for a quick and nutritious breakfast.

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Zaatar is truly a treasure of Middle Eastern cuisine, and its versatility makes it perfect for both traditional and modern dishes. Whether you’re enjoying it on your favorite manaeesh at Izz Café or trying out a new recipe at home, zaatar offers an unmistakable flavor that will elevate your culinary creations.

Explore these recipes and be sure to check out our online shop for high-quality zaatar blends and other Palestinian specialties, including our premium Medjoul dates and extra virgin olive oil!