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–+ servings
A close-up top view of a glass jar filled with olive oil and a mixture of sesame seeds, thyme, and spices, resembling a za’atar spice blend.

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
Cook Time 3 minutes
Total Time 8 minutes
Servings: 1 cup
Course: Dressing/Condiment, Side Dish
Cuisine: Californian, Middle Eastern
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

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.

Notes

Storage: Keeps in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. The olive oil will solidify when cold, just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes and give it a stir before using.

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