za'atar middle eastern spice blend
Za’atar (left) and Aleppo pepper (right)

What is za’atar? 

The term Za’atar refers to a family of herbs, including thyme, oregano and marjoram. It’s also a spice blend, and one of Blue Apron’s favorite ingredients. Recipes vary slight, but our house version of this Middle Eastern condiment is made from sumac, sesame seeds, salt, ground thyme, dried oregano and crushed Aleppo pepper. 

Traditionally sun-dried, za’atar is often eaten with pita or used as seasoning for various meats, vegetables and hummus. Recipes for this spice blend were once considered so precious that they were kept secret—even from family members.

Recipes we love

Za’atar is delicious on breads, meats, or roasted vegetables. Check out some of our favorite recipes below. 

Beef & Quinoa with Tzatziki, Tomatoes & Olives

beef spiced with za'atar
This shawarma-inspired beef dish can be made ahead of time for an easy dinner

Chicken Burgers & Oven Fries with Feta-Labneh Spread & Garlic Chips

burgers prepared with za'atar
These Middle Eastern-inspired burgers are deliciously tangy

Chicken & Farro Salad with Beet, Goat Cheese & Pistachios

za'atar dinner with chicken
An elegant take on a classic flavor combination: sweet beets and tangy goat cheese

Roasted Cauliflower & Tzatziki over Fregola Sarda Pasta

za'atar spiced cauliflower
This seared cauliflower steak makes a satisfying vegetarian dinner

Beef & Carrots with Zucchini Rice & Lemon Labneh

Lemony labneh keeps this dish bright and exciting

Beef over Spiced Rice with Lemon Labneh

za-atar beef and carrots
This dinner is full of vibrant spice and tender beef

Roasted Broccoli & Fregola Sarda with Hard-Boiled Eggs & Tahini Dressing

za'atar pasta
Crunchy almonds, tahini, and Pecorino make this vegetarian dinner super satisfying

Spiced Chicken with Pink Lemon Pan Sauce & Pearl Couscous

A simple pan sauce takes this recipe over the top