How to Make Olive Oil Dip for Bread (with Palestinian Zaatar)
How to Make Olive Oil Dip for Bread (with Palestinian Zaatar)
It’s more than just food — it’s a flavorful tradition and a daily pleasure. Imagine dipping warm bread into golden, fragrant olive oil blended with zaatar. This delicious combination of simple ingredients is a beloved staple in many Palestinian homes and deeply rooted in Levantine culinary heritage.
In this post, we’ll guide you through making the perfect olive oil and zaatar dip using authentic Palestinian ingredients. You'll also learn why this combination is both healthy and meaningful.
What Is Palestinian Zaatar?
Zaatar is a fragrant spice mix made of wild thyme, roasted sesame seeds, sumac, and sea salt. The variety grown and blended in Palestine is especially prized for its intense aroma and well-balanced flavor, thanks to the wild herbs that flourish in the region’s hills.
Unlike mass-produced blends, authentic Palestinian zaatar is free of fillers and made by hand — a reflection of care and tradition in every bite.
Why Use Extra Virgin Palestinian Olive Oil?
Extracted from ancient olive trees that have stood for centuries, Palestinian extra virgin olive oil is cold-pressed to retain its natural richness and health benefits.
- It’s packed with antioxidants and heart-friendly fats.
- It also preserves the integrity, flavor, and cultural value of Palestinian olive oil — a symbol of resilience and heritage.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Extra virgin olive oil (pour into a small bowl or dish)
- 2 tablespoons of Palestinian zaatar
- Optional: A pinch of sea salt, crushed garlic, or a drizzle of honey
- Fresh bread such as pita, sourdough, or any rustic loaf
How to Prepare the Dip
- Choose a small plate or shallow dish.
- Pour in the olive oil and spread it evenly across the surface.
- Sprinkle the zaatar over the oil without mixing — let the presentation shine.
- Add a pinch of salt or garlic if desired.
- Serve with fresh bread and enjoy immediately.
Tip: You can also pre-mix the zaatar and olive oil and store it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to one week.
How to Serve It
This dip is commonly enjoyed at breakfast or as part of a mezze platter, alongside labneh, fresh vegetables, and olives. It’s a wholesome way to start your morning or to warmly welcome guests.
The earthy and tangy flavors of zaatar pair beautifully with the bold notes of extra virgin olive oil — especially when served with warm, crusty bread. It also makes a great addition to any appetizer spread.
Health Benefits of Olive Oil and Zaatar
- Anti-inflammatory effects from sumac and olive oil’s polyphenols
- Heart-friendly fats that help lower bad cholesterol
- Rich antioxidants that support immune function
- Digestive benefits from thyme and sesame seeds
👉 Read more about the health benefits of olive oil in this Harvard article.
Flavor Variations You Can Try
- Add Aleppo pepper or chili flakes for some heat
- Drizzle raw honey for a sweet and savory contrast
- Stir in labneh or Greek yogurt for a creamier texture
- Squeeze in a few drops of lemon juice for a fresh zing
Where to Get Authentic Palestinian Ingredients
At Watany Palestinian Products, we’re proud to source our zaatar and olive oil directly from trusted Palestinian farmers and cooperatives. Every jar and bottle carries the story of the land and the people who tend it.
🛒 Explore our full collection of pantry staples on watanypalestinianproducts.com
🎁 Don’t miss our Zaatar & Olive Oil Starter Pack — a perfect gift or kitchen essential.
Why This Dip Matters
This dip is more than just a recipe — it’s a way to honor tradition. For Palestinians around the world, it represents home, identity, and a connection to the land. Preparing and enjoying this dip is a small but meaningful act of cultural preservation.
Every time you serve it, you share in a tradition that has nourished families for generations.