Labaneh

Labneh, or Greek yogurt, is yogurt which has been strained in a cloth or paper bag or filter to remove the whey, giving a consistency between that of yogurt and cheese, while preserving yogurt's distinctive sour taste. Labaneh is a traditional food in the Levant, Eastern Mediterranean, Near East, and South Asia, where it is often used in cooking, as it is high enough in fat not to curdle at higher temperatures. It is also known as laban.

Za'atar Spiked Labneh with Flatbread

Za'atar (or zahtar or zatar) is an earthy Middle Eastern spice blend that can contain a variety of different ingredients such as toasted sesame seeds, marjoram, thyme, cumin, oregano, sumac and sea salt. Each country has its own unique style of za'atar, and each family develops their own mix. Traditionally, it is sprinkled on labneh (yogurt cheese) with olive oil and served with warm bread.

2 cups labneh or 4 cups plain yogurt
5 pitas or 3 pieces of flatbread
2 1/2 teaspoons olive oil, divided

Za'atar
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
1 1/2 tablespoon dried marjoram
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon coarse sea salt
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cumin
Coarse sea salt (optional)

If using yogurt, drain in cheesecloth placed over a colander overnight. Discard liquid and set aside thickened yogurt.

Preheat oven to 375°F. Place pitas or flatbread in single layer on baking sheets and spread 2 teaspoons olive oil on top of bread.

Heat a heavy skillet over medium high heat. Add sesame seeds and toast, stirring often, until fragrant and golden, 2 to 3 minutes.

In small food processor, pulse marjoram, thyme, sea salt, paprika and cumin until nearly a powder, 1 to 2 minutes. Pour mixture into a small bowl and add sesame seeds. Stir to combine. Sprinkle about half the za'atar spice mixture onto pita or flatbread. If using pita, bake until crispy, about 15 minutes. If using flatbread, bake until warm, about 10 minutes.

Place labneh or yogurt in medium bowl and drizzle with remaining 1/2 teaspoon olive oil and sprinkle with za'atar to taste. Add more sea salt if desired. Serve alongside flatbread or pita and let guests tear their own and dip into labneh or yogurt.

Serves 6 as an appetizer

Per Serving:190 calories (70 from fat), 8g total fat, 3.5g saturated fat, 20mg cholesterol, 400mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (0g dietary fiber, 8g sugar), 8g protein