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Za'atar Yogurt Sauce

A creamy, tangy Mediterranean-inspired sauce featuring za'atar, a Middle Eastern spice blend of herbs, sumac, and sesame seeds. Perfect for drizzling over roasted vegetables, grain bowls, or as a dip for flatbread.

10 minEasyServes 865 cal/serving

MediterraneanSauceNo-CookVegetarianLow CarbHalal-friendlyNut-FreeEgg-FreeGluten-FreeLow-SodiumPork-FreeAlcohol-FreeCorn-Free

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp za'atar spice blend
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 garlic clove, grated or minced
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp honey (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tbsp fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup cucumber (optional), grated, excess water squeezed out

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups plain Greek yogurt, 2 tbsp za'atar spice blend, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 tsp lemon zest, and 1 grated or minced garlic clove.

  2. 2

    Drizzle in 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil while whisking to incorporate.

  3. 3

    If using, add 1 tsp honey (optional) for a touch of sweetness.

  4. 4

    Season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper to taste.

  5. 5

    Fold in 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh mint leaves and 1/2 cup grated, excess water squeezed out cucumber (optional) if using.

  6. 6

    Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

  7. 7

    Before serving, taste and adjust seasonings if needed. If the sauce is too thick, thin with a splash of water or additional lemon juice.

  8. 8

    Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

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Questions

How much time should I plan for Za'atar Yogurt Sauce?

As written, 10 minutes: 10 of prep and 0 of cooking. The longest single stretch is the hands-off wait in step 6, 30 minutes. That wait sits outside the stated prep and cook times, so plan around it.

What can I use instead of za'atar in Za'atar Yogurt Sauce?

The entry for Za'atar Yogurt Sauce calls for 2 tbsp za'atar spice blend. In its place: Combine dried thyme or oregano with toasted sesame seeds and a little lemon zest, which stands in for the sumac.

Is Za'atar Yogurt Sauce gluten-free?

Yes. As written, nothing in the ingredient list for Za'atar Yogurt Sauce is wheat, barley or rye. Gluten hides in packaged goods, so read the label on the za'atar.

How many carbs are in Za'atar Yogurt Sauce?

One serving (the recipe makes 8) has 6 g of carbohydrate in about 65 calories, with 6 g protein and 3 g fat, plus 240 mg sodium. The figures are estimates computed from the ingredient list.

Can I start Za'atar Yogurt Sauce the day before?

Yes. Step 6 is a built-in pause of 30 minutes: "Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld." Do everything up to that point ahead of time and pick up at step 7 when you are ready to finish.

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