Butternut squash soup with orange, a silky, comforting winter recipe with bright citrus flavor and easy steps for a cozy meal.
Zahtar is a fragrant Middle Eastern spice blend that brightens everyday cooking with tart, nutty, and herbal notes. Made from dried wild thyme or oregano, toasted sesame seeds, and sumac, Zahtar lends a lemony tang and crunchy texture that transforms bread, vegetables, meats, and dips. In my kitchen I sprinkle Zahtar over warm flatbreads or mix it with olive oil to make a simple yet irresistible dip for fresh pita. It’s also brilliant as a finishing seasoning for roasted carrots, roasted cauliflower, or grilled chicken—just a pinch at the end lifts flavors without overpowering them.
Use Zahtar in marinades, rubs, and vinaigrettes: combine it with yogurt for a quick sauce for kebabs, stir it into labneh or cream cheese for a bright spread, or whisk it into lemon-olive oil dressings for salads. Bakers appreciate Zahtar for classic manakish (flatbread topped with the spice blend), while home cooks enjoy cracking eggs with a shower of Zahtar for breakfast. The sesame adds texture, sumac gives acidity, and the herbs provide an earthy backbone—together they create a remarkably versatile pantry staple.
If you’re making your own Zahtar, toast sesame seeds gently, grind dried thyme and oregano, and fold in ground sumac and salt to taste. Store in a cool, dark jar to preserve its aroma. For inspiration and cooking ideas, find here all recipes of ‘Zahtar’ including spreads, breads, marinades, and vegetable dishes. Whether you’re new to Zahtar or a longtime fan, this blend is a small change that delivers big, layered flavor across savory recipes.
