Caprese Zaatar Flatbread with Whipped Garlic Feta
This dish is a delightful marriage of Italian and Middle Eastern flavors. A crisp flatbread base is brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with za’atar, then topped with creamy whipped garlic feta, juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s perfect as a light lunch, appetizer, or a beautiful party platter.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Serves: 2–4
Ingredients
For the Flatbread:
2 medium flatbreads or naan
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
2 tbsp za’atar spice blend
For the Whipped Garlic Feta:
1 cup (150g) feta cheese, crumbled
3 tbsp Greek yogurt or cream cheese
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 small garlic clove, roasted or lightly sautéed for mellow flavor
½ tsp lemon zest
1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Caprese Topping:
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of colors for beauty)
1 ball fresh mozzarella or burrata, torn into bite-sized pieces
Fresh basil leaves
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Garnish:
1–2 tbsp balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Extra za’atar for sprinkling
Instructions
Prepare the Flatbread
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Place flatbreads on a baking sheet.
Brush each with olive oil and sprinkle evenly with za’atar.
Bake for 5–7 minutes until warm and slightly crisp around the edges.
Make the Whipped Garlic Feta
In a food processor, combine feta, Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
Taste and adjust seasoning — if feta is very salty, you may not need extra salt.
Assemble the Flatbread
Spread a generous layer of whipped garlic feta over the warm za’atar flatbread.
Arrange cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pieces, and fresh basil on top.
Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Finish & Serve
Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top.
Sprinkle a pinch of extra za’atar if desired.
Slice and serve immediately while warm.
Notes & Tips
Garlic Flavor: If you like a stronger garlic flavor, use raw garlic instead of roasted, but just a small amount to avoid overpowering the feta.
Flatbread Options: You can use store-bought naan, pita, or homemade flatbread dough.
Make-Ahead: Whipped garlic feta can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge.
Serving Suggestion: Works beautifully as an appetizer board with olives, cucumber slices, and roasted nuts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this without an oven?
A: Yes — you can warm and crisp the flatbread in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side.
Q: What’s the best mozzarella to use?
A: Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or burrata will give a creamy, luxurious texture.
Q: Can I replace feta with another cheese?
A: Ricotta or cream cheese works, but feta’s salty tang balances the sweet tomatoes best.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~285 kcal
Protein: 10g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 480mg