A simple mix of olive oil, rose vinegar, za'atar, and dried mint brings bold, Middle Eastern-inspired flavors to your salads. This dressing is balanced with honey and Dijon mustard for just the right amount of sweetness and tang.
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Homemade salad dressing brings an easily customizable component to your meals. A vinaigrette has so many options for adding flavor, and lately, za'atar seasoning has been my favorite quick flavor boost.
Za'atar seasoning is a Middle Eastern seasoning blend featuring sumac, thyme, and sesame seeds. My favorite uses for za'atar are on air fryer pita chips, on roasted cauliflower, and in bulgur pilaf.
This blend brings a unique flavor to this vinaigrette and goes perfectly with cucumber salad, although you can use it in any salad or as a marinade.
Ingredients
See the recipe card for exact amounts.
- Olive oil: The base of any good salad dressing, olive oil brings richness, bold flavor, and smoothness.
- Rose vinegar: A delicate vinegar, adds a subtle floral note.
- Honey: Honey brings a hint of sweetness that balances the tangy vinegar and mustard.
- Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard adds tang and a bit of sharpness. It also helps emulsify the dressing, keeping it from separating.
- Za’atar seasoning: This Middle Eastern blend of herbs, sumac, and sesame seeds adds a nutty, herbal, and slightly tart flavor.
- Dried mint: Dried mint adds a cooling note that balances the stronger, savory notes in the dressing. It’s also a classic herb in Middle Eastern cuisine.
Substitutions
- Rose vinegar: If you don’t have rose vinegar, white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can work. They’ll add a slightly different acidity, but still keep the balance in the dressing.
- Honey: For a vegan option, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar. Maple syrup will add a bit of earthiness, while agave keeps the flavor more neutral.
Olive oil can solidify in the fridge. Let the dressing sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before use.
Instructions
Prep Tips
- Add all of the ingredients to a jar or container with a lid.
- Shake well and use or store in the fridge.
Tips for making za'atar dressing
- Whisk or shake it well. Mustard helps emulsify the dressing, but you’ll still need to whisk it vigorously or shake it in a jar to fully combine the oil and vinegar. This step ensures the dressing has a smooth, even texture. It will separate during storage which is natural. Shake before every use.
- Taste as you go and adjust to your preference. Everyone tastes things differently. You may find you need more acidity, sweetener, or salt. Add additional ingredients in small increments until you're pleased with the taste.
What to serve with za'atar salad dressing
For a quick weeknight dinner, drizzle this dressing over a cucumber salad, or a chopped salad and pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp. Add a side of warm pita bread and hummus, and you have a complete, satisfying meal with minimal prep.
It’s also a great match for grain bowls with quinoa, farro, or couscous, adding a burst of flavor with minimal effort.
More Salad Dressing Recipes
Storage
Store the dressing in the fridge for a week or so. Let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes because olive can solidify in the fridge. Shake the dressing before use.
FAQs
Yes. To make the dressing vegan substitute the honey for another thick liquid sweetener like agave syrup.
Recipe
Za’atar Salad Dressing
Ingredients
- ½ cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons rose vinegar
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons za’atar seasoning
- 2 teaspoons dried mint
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a container or jar with a lid.
- Add the lid and shake well to combine.
Video
Notes
Nutritional information is an estimate. Values vary based on products used. Read our full Nutrition Disclaimer.
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