Zaatar Halloumi Fatteh with Crispy Pita
A delightful Lebanese dish featuring pan-fried halloumi cheese tossed with fragrant zaatar, layered over crispy pita bread. This recipe offers a savory and textural symphony, perfect for a satisfying dinner.

Prep Time
45 min
Difficulty
Medium
Servings
4
Calories
550 kcal
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut pita bread into 1-inch squares. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
~15 min - 2
While pita is baking, cut halloumi cheese into ½-inch cubes. In a medium bowl, combine the yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
~5 min - 3
Heat the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the halloumi cubes and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and slightly crispy.
~7 min - 4
Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the zaatar spice blend over the cooked halloumi and toss to coat evenly. The residual heat will help release the aroma of the zaatar.
~2 min - 5
To assemble, spread the yogurt mixture evenly over the bottom of a serving dish. Arrange the crispy pita bread on top of the yogurt.
~1 min - 6
Spoon the zaatar-coated halloumi over the pita bread. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and pomegranate seeds, if using.
~2 min
Tips
- For extra crispy pita, you can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat before baking.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the crispy texture of the pita and the warm halloumi.
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