Toasted Bread with Za'atar and Olive Oil
Recipe

Toasted Bread with Za'atar and Olive Oil

Some flavors are born from simplicity.

Basita is one of them.

Toasted bread, olive oil shining like the Mediterranean sun, and a sprinkle of za’atar that awakens the aromas of the earth: thyme, sesame, and sumac. Humble ingredients that, together, tell an ancient story.

In many Middle Eastern homes, the day begins this way: warm bread, olive oil, and za’atar shared around the table. It’s not just food, it’s a small everyday ritual.
Basita is about returning to the essentials.

A simple bite, full of flavor, meant to be enjoyed slowly.
Because sometimes, the simplest things are also the most memorable. 

  • PREP TIME

    5 Min

  • COOK TIME

    5 Min

  • SERVINGS

    2

  • TOTAL TIME

    10 Min

Ingredients

  • 2 pita breads, flatbreads, or slices of rustic bread
  • 2–3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1–2 tablespoons za’atar
  • 1 pinch sea salt (optional)

Optional toppings / sides:

  • Plain yogurt or labneh
  • Sliced tomatoes
  • Cucumber
  • Olives
  • Feta cheese

Preparation

Preheat
Preheat the oven to 180–200 °C (350–390 °F) or prepare a skillet/griddle.

Prepare the mixture
In a small bowl, mix the za’atar and olive oil until it forms a fragrant paste.

Spread on the bread
Place the bread on a baking tray or skillet.
Spread the za’atar and olive oil mixture evenly over the bread.

Toast

  • In the oven: Bake for 5–8 minutes until the bread becomes crispy.
  • In a skillet: Toast over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side.

Serve
Add an extra drizzle of olive oil if desired and serve with vegetables or yogurt.

Culinary Tip

For a more authentic flavor, mix the za’atar with olive oil until it forms a thick, aromatic paste before spreading it generously over the bread. This helps the spices bloom and infuse the bread as it toasts, creating a deeper, more traditional flavor similar to freshly baked manakeesh.