California Za’atar

Fragrant, citrusy, and deeply savory-this California Za'atar blends toasted sesame, thyme, oregano, and lemon zest into extra virgin olive oil for a sun-drenched take on a Middle Eastern classic. Perfect as a dip, drizzle, or finishing oil, it's the easiest way to make anything taste like summer.

Why You'll Love California Za'atar

This version is fresh, herbaceous, and wildly versatile. The toasted sesame brings a nutty crunch, the lemon zest lifts everything, and the olive oil pulls it all together. You'll want to put it on everything-and you should.

Tips and Tricks

• Toast sesame seeds just until golden-once they start to brown, they go fast.
• Use a microplane to grate the garlic ultra-fine so it infuses smoothly into the oil.
• Let the za'atar sit for at least 10 minutes before using-it gives the flavors time to bloom.

Variations

• Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Stir in a bit of ground cumin or coriander for earthier depth.
• Use finely chopped fresh herbs instead of dried for a brighter, more vibrant finish (but reduce quantity slightly).

Substitutions

• If you don't have sumac, use a little extra lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice for acidity.
• No oregano? Marjoram or a za'atar spice blend will work too.
• Prefer a softer garlic note? Swap the raw clove for 1 teaspoon garlic confit or roasted garlic paste.

Best Served With

• Warm flatbread or pita
• Grilled or roasted seasonal vegetables
• Pan-seared chicken thighs or lamb skewers
• Labneh, whipped feta, or hummus for dipping

How to Store Leftovers

• Transfer to an airtight jar or container and refrigerate. The olive oil may solidify in the fridge-just let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before using. Best consumed within 1 week for peak flavor and freshness.

Common Questions

California Za'atar

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A bright and herbaceous take on traditional za'atar made with toasted sesame, lemon zest, thyme, and oregano steeped in extra virgin olive oil.

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 8 minutes mins

Course: Dressing/Condiment, Side Dish

Cuisine: Californian, Middle Eastern

Calories: 1155

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1 small garlic clove or ½ large clove
• 2 tablespoon dried thyme
• 2 tablespoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon lemon zest finely grated
• 1 teaspoon sumac optional, ground
• ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• Kosher salt to taste

Equipment

• Small dry frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Microplane or grater

Method

 

1. In a small dry frying pan over medium heat, toast sesame seeds until fragrant and lightly browned, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
2. Grate garlic into a small bowl using a microplane or fine grater.
3. Add dried thyme, dried oregano, toasted sesame seeds, lemon zest, sumac (if using), and olive oil.
4. Stir well to combine and season to taste with kosher salt.
5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Nutrition

Calories: 1155kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 6gFat: 125gSaturated Fat: 17gPolyunsaturated Fat: 18gMonounsaturated Fat: 85gSodium: 17mgPotassium: 207mgFiber: 4gSugar: 0.2gVitamin A: 325IUVitamin C: 7mgCalcium: 195mgIron: 12mg

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