Savory Labneh & Za'atar Toast
Crispy, golden sourdough toast slathered with thick, tangy labneh and sprinkled with earthy za'atar. A drizzle of good olive oil and fresh tomatoes turn this Middle Eastern-inspired breakfast into something you'll crave every morning.
For 4 servings
- grill · ~6 min
Toast the sourdough slices.
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Place the sourdough slices on the dry pan and toast for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden and crisp with light char marks.
TIPPress the bread gently with a spatula for even toasting and deeper grill marks. - prep · ~1 min
Season the labneh.
In a small bowl, stir the labneh with a pinch of salt until smooth and spreadable.
- assemble · ~2 min
Assemble the toast.
Spread a generous layer of seasoned labneh on each warm toast slice. Sprinkle the za'atar evenly over the labneh, then arrange the halved cherry tomatoes on top.
TIPWarm toast melts the labneh just slightly, helping the za'atar stick beautifully. - garnish · ~1 min
Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.
Finish each toast with a generous drizzle of olive oil. Serve right away while the bread is still warm and crisp.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use thick-cut sourdough to ensure a sturdy base that won't get soggy from the labneh and tomatoes.
- 2Toast the bread on a dry pan for deeper char marks and a crunchier texture.
- 3Bring labneh to room temperature before spreading for a creamier consistency.
- 4Sprinkle za'atar right after spreading labneh on warm toast so it adheres better.
- 5Drizzle olive oil just before serving to preserve its fresh, peppery flavor.
- 6Halved cherry tomatoes can be lightly salted and set aside for 5 minutes to release their juices.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Replace labneh with a thick cashew-based yogurt or tofu cream cheese for a fully plant-based, creamy base.
high proteinHigh-protein
Top with a soft-boiled or poached egg to add protein and richness that complements the labneh and za'atar.
low oilLow-oil
Use a mist of olive oil spray instead of a drizzle to reduce oil while still getting the flavor.
gluten freeGluten-free
Swap sourdough for gluten-free bread or grilled halved portobello mushrooms for a low-carb, gluten-free base.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Probiotic-Rich Labneh
Labneh is a strained yogurt cheese packed with live probiotics that support gut health and digestion.
Antioxidants from Za'atar
Za'atar contains thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds, which provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Heart-Healthy Olive Oil
Extra-virgin olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and polyphenols that support cardiovascular health.
Vitamin C from Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes provide vitamin C and lycopene, an antioxidant linked to reduced risk of chronic diseases.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, a crusty artisan bread like ciabatta or a whole-grain loaf works well, but avoid soft sandwich bread which will get soggy.
