This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure.
This Za’atar Seasoning is an amazing addition to many Middle Eastern-inspired dishes. Sprinkle it on hummus, pasta, salads and so much more. It’s so easy to create your very own spice blend!

The first time I had Za’atar seasoning I picked some up from Penzey’s Spices. I’ve always had a real passion for exotic spices and I knew this was something I had to try. And I was immediately hooked!
The ingredients for this spice mix are simple: sumac, white sesame seeds, thyme leaves and salt. That’s it. If you’ve ever had a fattoush salad, it tastes pretty much just like that! =)
If you’re wondering, sumac is a versatile spice that has a sweet lemony taste. You can sometimes find it at a specialty market near you, but it’s not too common so your best bet may be to buy sumac online. Sumac is absolutely crucial for this spice mix and I wouldn’t recommend making it without it.
However, to substitute the thyme leaves, you can use oregano. Or I’ve seen other recipes that add a little cumin or coriander as well.
How to make this Za’atar spice blend:
This is going to be a short explanation section because there’s not a lot to do! Just add all the spices together in a small bowl and stir until combined. That’s it. You are officially a spice maker. 😉
You can then add the spice blend to a spice jar, or put in an airtight container in the fridge and it will last for months.
I hope you enjoy this Za’atar Seasoning Blend as much as I do.
How to use Za’atar:
There a few ways I love to use this seasoning, but feel free to get creative!
- I like using it on Za’atar Pasta with Hummus. I know pasta on hummus sounds crazy but it’s soooo good, and this seasoning gives this dish just the right flavor.
- Add a bit to this Crushed Lentil Soup before serving.
- Mix this seasoning with olive oil and use it as a dip for bread.
- Add it to dips, tzatziki sauce, olives, or hummus.
- Use it to make a Middle Eastern or Mediterranean-inspired salad dressing.
- Sprinkle this spice mix on warm roasted vegetables.
- Make a flatbread pizza with hummus, garlic and this seasoning on top.
Where to buy pre-made Za’atar seasoning?
If you don’t have the spices needed for this recipe on hand, you can generally buy this pre-mixed seasoning at your local spice store, or through Amazon (click here —> Za’atar Seasoning). But you won’t get the same bragging rights as when you make it yourself. =)
If you try this recipe, please let me know! Leave a comment, rate it, and tag your photo with #veggie__chick on Instagram. I just love to see my recipes being made in YOUR kitchen!
Za’atar Seasoning
Pin RateIngredients
- 2 tablespoons sumac
- 2 tablespoons dried thyme leaves - not ground
- 2 teaspoons white sesame seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- In a small bowl, add all ingredients/spices and stir to combine. Transfer to a spice jar, or store in the fridge in an airtight container and it will last for months. This recipes makes 1/4 cup seasoning mix.
Notes
- You can use this Za’atar Seasoning in many ways. One of my favorite is this recipe for Za’atar Pasta with Hummus. Add a bit to this Crushed Lentil Soup before serving. Or you can also add to dips or salad dressings, sprinkle on roasted vegetables, or mix with olive oil and use as a dip for bread, So many options!
- If you don’t have the spices needed for this recipe on hand, you can generally buy this pre-mixed seasoning at your local spice store, or through Amazon (click here —> Za’atar Seasoning). But you won’t get the same bragging rights as when you make it yourself. =)
Nutrition
Update Notes: This post was originally published in April 2018, but was republished with tips and FAQs in September 2019.
Leave a Reply