Let’s be honest: cooking can feel like a challenge. With everything happening worldwide, many of us turn to quick snacks or frozen meals, like a handful of Chex Mix or the occasional protein waffle (if we’re lucky enough to have missed the recent Costco recall).
But when I find the time and energy to cook, I lean into comfort foods, especially those that are easy, flavorful, and cheesy.
One go-to comfort food? The humble quesadilla. This classic is endlessly customizable, quick to make, and reliably delicious, whether you’re whipping it up as an after-school snack, a late-night bite, or a leisurely dinner.
But to make your quesadillas stand out, it’s time to look beyond the typical cheese and chicken combination. Recently, I discovered a Middle Eastern twist that takes this classic to the next level: adding za’atar.
What is Za’atar?
Za’atar is a popular Middle Eastern spice blend that’s versatile and flavorful. This savory mix typically includes dried oregano, thyme, sumac, toasted sesame seeds, and salt.
Originating in Palestine, za’atar has become a staple across the Levant region, where it’s used to add depth to meats, veggies, bread, and more.
The blend’s unique flavor profile is earthy and bright, thanks to the lemony tang of sumac and the herby undertones of thyme and oregano.
Tossing za’atar into your quesadilla adds a burst of freshness and a savory, nutty taste that perfectly complements the gooey cheese.
Why Add Za’atar to Quesadillas?
There are endless ways to make a quesadilla, which is part of their appeal. I love experimenting with fillings, from shredded rotisserie chicken to sautéed fajita veggies, scrambled eggs, or even a sprinkle of kimchi.
But adding za’atar introduces an entirely new dimension to the classic quesadilla.
The earthy, citrusy flavors in za’atar meld beautifully with melted cheese, and the toasted sesame seeds bring a little crunch to each bite.
The sumac adds a lemony brightness, balancing the richness of the cheese and giving it a unique, elevated taste. If you love flavor-packed, comforting foods, this Middle Eastern twist is a must-try.
How to Make Za’atar Quesadillas: Step-by-Step
Ready to try this? Here’s a simple recipe for a za’atar quesadilla perfect for lunch, dinner, or a savory snack.
Ingredients
- Flour tortillas (medium or large size, depending on your preference)
- Cheese of choice (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- Za’atar spice blend (about 1-2 teaspoons per quesadilla)
- Optional fillings: shredded chicken, sautéed veggies, or scrambled eggs
- Olive oil (for added richness)
- Toppings: Greek yogurt or labneh, fresh herbs, or pickled onions
Instructions
1. Prep your fillings: If you add extra chicken or veggies, prepare them first—season chicken or veggies with salt, pepper, and a little za’atar for quick flavor.
2. To assemble the quesadilla, Lay a tortilla flat on a plate. Sprinkle a generous amount of cheese across one side of the tortilla, followed by your other fillings. Add about 1-2 teaspoons of za’atar on top of the cheese.
3. Cook the quesadilla: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, place your quesadilla in the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side.
4. Serve: Slice your quesadilla into triangles and top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or labneh, fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of extra za’atar if desired.
Other Delicious Ways to Use Za’atar
Za’atar is highly versatile and can be used to elevate a variety of dishes:
- Meat Marinades: Add za’atar to olive oil and lemon juice for a flavorful meat marinade.
- Hummus Topping: Sprinkle za’atar on store-bought hummus for a quick flavor boost.
- Roasted Veggies: Toss cauliflower, potatoes, or carrots with olive oil and za’atar before roasting.
- Bread and Flatbreads: For an easy snack, spread za’atar mixed with olive oil on flatbreads like the Lebanese “madhouse.”
- Egg Dishes: Stir za’atar into scrambled eggs or sprinkle on poached eggs.
Tips for Buying and Storing Za’atar
- Where to Find Za’atar: Za’atar can often be found in the spice aisle at specialty grocery stores or Middle Eastern markets. You can also order it online.
- Storage: Store za’atar in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Properly stored, it should stay fresh for up to a year.
- Homemade vs. Store-Bought: You can make it yourself if you want a more customizable za’atar. Mix dried oregano, thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and salt. Adjust the proportions to suit your taste.
Nutritional Benefits of Za’atar
Za’atar isn’t just flavorful; it’s also packed with nutritional benefits:
- Antioxidants: Sumac and herbs like thyme contain antioxidants to help combat inflammation.
- Minerals: Sesame seeds provide calcium and magnesium, which support bone health.
- Healthy Fats: The sesame seeds and olive oil used with za’atar add healthy fats that support brain and heart health.
Adding za’atar to dishes like quesadillas isn’t just a way to level up flavor—it’s also a great way to introduce these nutritious elements into your diet.
Conclusion
The humble quesadilla just got a global makeover. By adding za’atar, you’ll elevate this classic comfort food with new layers of flavor, combining Mexican cuisine’s cheesy goodness with the earthy, citrusy notes of Middle Eastern spices.
A za’atar quesadilla might be my new favorite comfort dish, whether trying to break out of a cooking rut or simply craving something different.
FAQs
Thanks to the sumac and sesame seeds, Za’atar adds a bright, earthy flavor with hints of lemon and nuttiness. Combined with cheese, it creates a deliciously balanced taste that’s both savory and refreshing.
Za’atar can be found at specialty grocery stores, Middle Eastern markets, or online. Some larger grocery chains may also carry it in the spice aisle.
Cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack all work well. Each cheese has a mild flavor that complements the za’atar without overwhelming it.
Yes! Mix dried oregano, thyme, sumac, toasted sesame seeds, and salt. Adjust the ratio to suit your taste preferences.
Absolutely. Za’atar is great on roasted veggies, grilled meats, eggs, hummus, and even salads. It adds a lovely brightness and depth to many dishes.
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