About recipe

Za’atar is a spice blend widely used in the Middle East. There are innumerable za’atar recipes, but in general, it is a combination of dried thyme, oregano, marjoram, cumin and sesame seeds. It packs a huge punch of warm, floral flavors and really makes this dish sing. 

Ingredients (serves 4)

• 3 tablespoons olive oil 
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped 
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed 
• 2 teaspoons cumin 
• 1 teaspoon thyme 4-7 anchovies (optional) 
• 1 lemon: half of lemon zested, and juice of lemon 
• 1 15 ounce can of chickpeas 
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar 
• 1 3/4 cups of low sodium chicken stock 
• 1/2 box pasta of choice 
• 2 cups spinach, chipped 
• 1 1/2 teaspoons za’atar or oregano 

Preparation

1. Cook pasta per box instructions. 
2. Heat the olive oil over high heat in a large sauté pan. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, thyme, anchovies (if you are using them) lemon zest, a pinch of salt and a pinch of black pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onions become golden. 
3. Reduce heat to medium high and stir in the chickpeas and brown sugar. Cook for an additional 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. 
4. Add the chicken stock and lemon juice to the pan and simmer for 6 minutes, until the sauce has reduced slightly. 
5. Add the spinach and cooked pasta. Stir to combine. 
6. Sprinkle with za’atar and enjoy!