Irresistible Zaatar Manakish with Labneh and Olives Recipe

The scent of fresh-baked bread mingling with the herbal notes of zaatar is enough to make anyone weak in the knees. Imagine pulling a golden-brown manakish from the oven, its warm fragrance enveloping you like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. This Zaatar Manakish with Labneh and Olives isn’t just food; it’s an experience that will transport you straight to a bustling bazaar.

Every bite is a delightful crunch followed by the creaminess of labneh and the salty pop of olives. It’s the kind of dish that brings friends together around the table, ready to dive into deliciousness while sharing stories that last long into the night.

I remember the first time I made this for my family; they devoured it within minutes and demanded seconds. The smiles on their faces said it all.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: Choose high-quality flour for a soft dough that rises beautifully.
• Active Dry Yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh; this is essential for good dough texture.
• Warm Water: Use water that’s warm but not hot—it helps activate the yeast perfectly.
• Salt: A pinch goes a long way in enhancing all those delicious flavors.
• Zaatar Spice Blend: Look for a balanced blend; this is where the magic happens!
• Labneh: This creamy yogurt dip enhances every bite with its tangy goodness.
• Pitted Olives: Use your favorite varieties like Kalamata or green olives for added brininess.
• Olive Oil: Drizzle on top before baking for extra flavor and crispiness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

First things first; let’s get that dough ready.

Create the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit until frothy (about 5-10 minutes). Add flour and salt gradually until it forms a soft dough.

Knead Away: Transfer dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Trust me; this is where you’re building character!

Let It Rise: Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size (about 1 hour). Patience is key here!

Roll Out the Dough: Once risen, punch down the dough gently. Divide into balls and roll each ball into flat circles about ¼ inch thick. Feel free to channel your inner pizza chef!

Add Toppings: Spread zaatar spice mix evenly over each circle of dough. Drizzle olive oil generously over top—this adds flavor magic!

Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place manakish on baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown. Your kitchen will smell heavenly at this point!

Once baked, remove from oven and generously dollop labneh on top before adding olives as toppings. Serve warm and watch them disappear faster than you can say “manakish!”

Now you’ve created an irresistible dish that everyone will rave about! Enjoy every crispy bite filled with zesty herbs paired perfectly with creamy labneh—what more could you ask for?

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best results, prepare the dough first, let it rise while you mix the zaatar topping, then bake the manakish until golden brown.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with toppings like cherry tomatoes or feta cheese for a creative twist on this classic dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover manakish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a toaster oven for crispiness.

The first time I made Zaatar Manakish, my friends couldn’t stop raving about it. That feedback inspired me to perfect my recipe and share it with others!

FAQ

What is Zaatar Manakish with Labneh and Olives?

Zaatar Manakish is a Middle Eastern flatbread topped with zaatar, labneh, and olives.

Can I freeze Zaatar Manakish?

Yes, you can freeze unbaked manakish; just thaw before baking.

How do I make labneh at home?

Strain yogurt through cheesecloth overnight to create creamy homemade labneh.

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Zaatar Manakish with Labneh and Olives

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Zaatar Manakish with Labneh and Olives is a delicious Middle Eastern flatbread topped with aromatic zaatar, creamy labneh, and briny olives—perfect for any meal or snack.

• Total Time: 42 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

• All-Purpose Flour
• Active Dry Yeast
• Warm Water
• Salt
• Zaatar Spice Blend
• Labneh
• Pitted Olives (Kalamata or green)
• Olive Oil

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit until frothy (5-10 minutes).
2. Gradually add flour and salt to form a soft dough.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth.
4. Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled (about 1 hour).
5. Punch down the dough and divide into balls; roll each into ¼ inch thick circles.
6. Spread zaatar over each circle and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C) and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
8. Top with labneh and olives before serving warm.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 260
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 360mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 0mg