When I was growing up in the Middle East, I remember having manaeesh on the weekends for brunch. For those of you who haven’t tried it before, it’s basically dough topped with thyme, cheese and other ingredients before it’s baked to perfection. So it somewhat similar to pizza, but there’s something about the dried thyme that makes manaeesh irresistible. This recipe is my take on pizza inspired by manaeesh. It’s topped with za’atar (Middle Eastern spice blend), tomatoes, feta, crispy shallots and a garlic-mint sauce. It’s a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, brunch or a main. Best of all, it doesn’t take long at all – perfect for those last minute guests!
I’ve been inspired by Middle Eastern cuisine and za’atar is the perfect way to start exploring Middle Eastern dishes. It’s a spice blend that contains thyme, oregano, marjoram, sumac, sesame seeds and other spices. The ingredients in the blend vary from location or location and some households even have their own “secret” blends! 
There are a number of ways to use this spice -here are some of my favorities:
– Mix za’atar and extra-virgin olive oil and serve with bread. It’s a great alternative to balsamic vinegar and oil.
– Sprinkle some on a bowl of cottage cheese
– Add to cooked couscous prior to serving to give it a flavour boost
Spice blends such as za’atar can elevate a simple dish to another level without adding extra calories in the form of fat. Another big plus is that za’atar contains herbs that pack a punch when it comes to anti-oxidants.
PrintZaatar pizza-inspiration from the Middle East
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
This Middle Eastern-inspired pizza features za’atar, tomatoes, and feta cheese, all served with a refreshing garlic-mint sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 wholewheat tortillas or thin crust pita
- 1.5 tbsp za’atar spice blend
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 6 tbsp Greek yogurt
- 1.5 tbsp chopped mint
- 2 tsp chopped garlic
- 2 shallots, finely chopped
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the mint-garlic sauce by blending the Greek yogurt, chopped mint, chopped garlic, lemon juice, and salt and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (205 C).
- Mix the extra-virgin olive oil and za’atar spice blend in a small bowl.
- Place the tortillas or pita on a baking sheet. Brush each with the za’atar and olive oil mixture.
- Top with diced tomato, finely chopped shallots, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and the cheese is slightly melted.
- Remove from the oven and drizzle with the prepared mint-garlic sauce before serving.
Notes
Za’atar is a versatile spice blend that can be used in various dishes. You can substitute Greek yogurt with regular yogurt for the sauce. This pizza can be served as an appetizer, brunch, or main course. Store any leftover sauce in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pizza
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 550
- Fat: 18
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 12
- Cholesterol: 25
Great recipe ! I made it! It`s delicious!!!
I have a jar of za’atar that I love but don’t use as often as I should. This looks like a great suggestion, thanks!
I grew up on mana’eesh too – I make it on naan now. Heavenly stuff. Never thought to make a ‘real’ pizza out of it – might have to try that!
Thanks Ruby – it truly is heavenly stuff!