Za'atar is the Spice Blend to Beat

I am a massive fan of putting za’atar on pretty much everything. For those of you who don’t know what za’atar is, it’s a spice blend of that you need to add to your repertoire. Usually it’s a combination of thyme or oregano and sesame seeds. I was introduced to it by my mother-in-law who is Israeli, but you will see za’atar all over the Middle East and in North Africa. Every community and every home has their own twist on this; this is my own particular twist, mixed in with a delicious and crisp Israeli salad. Check out how I make it below!

Za’atar Spice Blend

Ingredients:

1 tbsp sesame seeds
1 tbsp thyme, finely chopped
1 tbsp sumac
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp kosher salt

Toss sesame seeds into a pan on medium-high heat to toast until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Remove to the side to cool down. Chop the thyme and place into a small bowl. Add the sumac, oregano, cumin, and salt. Stir together. Once sesame seeds are cooled, add to the bowl and mix together.

Israeli Salad

Ingredients:
1 large tomato
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 large cucumber
1 tbsp za’atar
Dash of olive oil
Dash of salt

Chop tomatoes and cucumber and place into bowl. Toss together with olive oil, salt, and za’atar and serve!