Za'atar & Mozzarella Bites

This is the type of snack I would take on the go because of how small they are. More than two years ago I came up with my Mini Za'atar Multigrain Roll Ups and you loved them. So here are my Za'atar & Mozzarella Bites! Since it's Ramadan, I thought these tiny snacks would be a great source of energy during suhoor since it's hard to stomach large meals so early in the morning.

Besides it being Ramadan, these snacks are so great to make for your work/school week. You can add them to a breakfast bento box with some fruit and eggs and you have yourself a balanced breakfast. You can also opt to bring them as a mid-day snack, it's up to you. If you have kids, these are also such an easy way to get them to eat a healthy snack. No matter who you're making these for, they are perfect for all ages. All you are going to need is tortillas, za'atar, olive oil, Aleppo pepper, and mozzarella. This whole tray took 15 minutes to prep, and 15 minutes to bake.

I wanted to mention that there is an optional ingredient addition - sun dried tomato spread. I found that spread at Eataly and I added some to 1 of my 6 tortillas just for *fun* and it turned out SO good. So if you want to add some extra flavor to your bites, try this one out! Let's get to it.

Why Za'atar & Mozzarella Bites Are a Must-Try:

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy days.

• Nutrient-Packed: Full of healthy fats from olive oil, antioxidants from za'atar, and calcium we want for our bones from the mozzarella.

• Kid-Friendly: Cheesy and bite-sized, this is an easy way to encourage healthier snacking.

• Customizable: Add extra fillings like sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for more variety.

Yields: 1-8

Portion: depends

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 15 minutes

Total time: 30 minutes

This recipe is vegetarian.

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Ingredients:

6 tortillas

Extra virgin olive oil

Zaatar

Aleppo pepper

1 bag of low-fat mozzarella shreds

Optional: sun-dried tomato spread

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Tips for Customizing Your Za'atar & Mozzarella Bites:

One of the best things about these bites is how versatile they are! Here are some easy ways to customize them to fit your taste or dietary needs:

1. Want to use a different cheese: You can use pepper jack or spicy cheddar for a bolder flavor or swap the mozzarella for feta or goat cheese for a Mediterranean twist. For a dairy-free you can opt for a plant-based mozzarella for a vegan-friendly option.

2. To add more flavor: I mentioned using a sun-dried tomato spread, roasted red peppers, olives, or fresh herbs such as parsley or basil after baking.

3. To spice it up: You can add chili flakes or some sumac for some extra tang.

4. Want to use a different bread: You can opt for a whole wheat wrap, a lavash bread for a thinner, crispier bite,  or even a gluten-free wrap if you're following a gluten free diet.

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Instructions:

1. Preheat oven: preheat oven to 400.

2. Prep bites: In a small bowl, pour in about 3 tbsps of olive oil, 2 tbsp of za'atar, and a dash of Aleppo pepper. Mix well. Pour mixture onto 1 tortilla and ensure it's spread evenly. Add mozzarella to your liking - approx. ¼ cup mozzarella each tortilla. Roll and slice into 4-5 pieces. Add to a round baking pan.

3. Repeat: repeat this process until you have filled up the baking pan - I needed 6 tortillas for this.

4. Bake: spray on olive oil on top of the mini tortillas. Bake in the oven for up to 15 minutes or until crispy. 5. Serve: garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What is za'atar?: Great question - za'atar is a Middle Eastern spice blend typically made of dried herbs (like thyme and oregano), sumac (a tangy, lemony spice), and sesame seeds. It’s known for its earthy, nutty flavor and is a source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

2. Can I use a different cheese?: Absolutely! While mozzarella gives these bites a classic cheesy pull, you could also try:

• Feta – for a tangy twist

• Cheddar – for a sharper flavor

• Halloumi – for a firmer, saltier bite

3. Are these freezer-friendly?: That's why I want you making them! To freeze properly, allow the bites to cool completely, store them in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you want to enjoy them, just reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes until warmed through.

4. Can I make these gluten-free?: Yes - just use gluten-free tortillas.

5. How do I store leftovers?: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain the crispiness.

Serving Suggestions:

These bites are delicious on their own, but here are a few ideas to round out your meal:

• Suhoor Spread: Pair with fresh fruits, boiled eggs, and a cup of herbal tea.

• Lunchbox Idea: Add these bites to a bento box with hummus, cucumbers, and grapes.

• Snack Board: Serve with a side of labneh, olives, and fresh veggies for a Mediterranean-inspired snack platter.

I hope you love this recipe as much as I did, so if you do, please leave me a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! I always read through my suggestions and comments, so please let me know your thoughts. If you have any questions you can feel free to DM me here or through Instagram. Speaking of Instagram - please tag me in all of your creations! I love seeing how the recipes come out and seeing how talented you all are. Sending my love.

xoxo,

Jasmin D the RD