LABNEH WITH ZA’ATAR AND OLIVE OIL
Labneh With Za’atar And Olive Oil is a classic Middle Eastern appetiser known for its simplicity, elegance and bold flavour. This creamy strained yoghurt is thick, tangy and smooth, making it ideal as a spread or dip. Topped with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil and a sprinkle of za’atar spice blend, it transforms into a deliciously savoury dish with herbal, nutty and citrusy notes. Served with a warm whole wheat pita, make it a nutritious snack, light lunch or mezze plate component. This single-serve recipe is quick to assemble, rich in probiotics and offers a balanced mix of healthy fats, proteins and fibre. It’s ideal for busy days or impromptu gatherings with no cooking requirement. This dish is an authentic and wholesome way to enjoy traditional Levantine flavours in minutes, which is a perfectly refreshing and satisfying meal.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Appetisers
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Middle Eastern
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
No-Cook, 5 Ingredients or Less, Prepared in Advance
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Cocktail Party, Casual Dinner, Ramadan, Summer, Date Night, Picnic, Potluck, Back to School
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegetarian, Healthy, Quick & Easy, High Fibre, Kid-Friendly, Kosher
DISH TYPE
Dip
INGREDIENTS
- ¼ cup labneh
- ½ teaspoon za’atar spice blend
- ½ teaspoon olive oil
- 1 small whole-wheat pita
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 157.7 kcal
- Fat: 6.7 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.8 g
- Cholesterol: 9.6 mg
- Sodium: 154.6 mg
- Carbohydrates: 18.2 g
- Fiber: 1.8 g
- Sugars: 3.3 g
- Protein: 8.1 g
- Calcium: 55.5 mg
- Iron: 0.9 mg
- Potassium: 50.9 mg
PREPARATION
- Prepare the Plate: Spoon the labneh into a small serving dish or plate. Use the back of a spoon to gently spread it into a circular shape, creating slight swirls.
- Add Za’atar: Evenly sprinkle the za’atar spice blend across the top of the labneh, allowing the herbs and sesame to add visual and textural contrast.
- Drizzle with Olive Oil: Slowly drizzle olive oil over the labneh and za’atar, filling in the swirls for a vibrant finish.
- Warm the Pita: Lightly warm the whole wheat pita in a dry skillet or toaster for 1–2 minutes until soft and pliable.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the dish immediately while the pita is warm, which is ideal for dipping or spreading.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
0 minutes
TIPS
- Use Full-Fat Labneh: Full-fat labneh provides a richer, creamier texture and balances the tanginess perfectly.
- Toast the Za’atar: Lightly toast za’atar in a dry pan for 30 seconds before adding for a deeper aroma and flavour.
- Warm the Pita: Always serve with warm or lightly toasted pita to elevate the experience.
- Adjust for Taste: Add more or less za’atar depending on your preference for intensity.
- Strain Your Yoghurt: If labneh isn’t available, make it by straining plain yoghurt through cheesecloth overnight.
VARIATIONS
- Vegan Version: Use a plant-based labneh alternative made from cashew or almond yoghurt.
- Add Nuts: Sprinkle with crushed pistachios or walnuts for added crunch and richness.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of Aleppo pepper or sumac for extra zing and colour.
- Fresh Herb Garnish: Add chopped mint or parsley on top for a vibrant finish.
- Sweet-Savoury: Drizzle a touch of pomegranate molasses or honey over the labneh for a balanced contrast.
- Layered Dip: Combine with hummus or baba ghanoush on the same plate for a multi-dip platter.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store prepared labneh with toppings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the dip (without the pita) a few hours in advance and chill until ready to serve.
- Freezing Not Recommended: Labneh may lose texture if frozen, so it’s best served fresh or refrigerated.
- Serving Tip: Serve with sliced cucumbers, carrots or crackers if pita is unavailable or for a gluten-free option.