A Dash Of Za'atar Will Change Your Egg Salad Sandwich Forever

Culinary experimentations are so much fun, and contrary to popular belief, they don't always have to be with unusual dishes you've never tried before. Sometimes, a minor change to a familiar recipe is all it takes to shake things up and chase away that repetitive monotony. Take an egg salad sandwich for example — a simple and reliable companion for those busy days when you need a quick, on-the-go meal. With a soft and creamy taste, it's the perfect blank canvas for so many whimsical changes, even something as unique as a za'atar tweak.

Za'atar is a Middle Eastern herb and spice blend usually made from dried thyme, oregano, and marjoram, mixed with sumac, salt, and toasted sesame seeds, although other herbs and spices can be included, too. In fact, homemade za'atar is an easy blend to master and will last for up to a year in a sealed jar. It offers a compelling mixture of herby, zesty, and nutty notes, accompanied by an aromatic and woodsy undertone. As these notes work their magic on the egg sandwich's lightness, you'll be left in awe of the extra flavor dimension they bring. Each bite still delivers that classic creamy, egg taste, but with a fragrant spike that lingers delicately in the back. It's subtle enough to not drastically change anything while simultaneously taking the dish to a tantalizing new height.

Incorporating za'atar into your egg salad sandwich is as simple as you'd expect — a few sprinkles into the filling and you're good to go. However, it can also be the gateway to other creative endeavors. Recipe developer Michelle McGlinn's version of a za'atar egg salad sandwich includes labneh, which is a Greek strained yogurt that will give extra smoothness and a tangy touch to the filling. If you want a more emphasized nutty taste instead, tahini is the perfect choice. And for those who like their sandwiches with a kick of heat, check out shatta — a Middle Eastern chili sauce with a deep and intriguing spiciness. Of course, that good old jar of chili oil you have sitting in the fridge will do the trick, too.

Condiments aren't the only thing you can use in conjunction with za'atar to elevate your egg sandwich. Sprinkle in some feta cheese crumbles for an exquisite briny, tangy taste that ties in with the spice blend's depth. Go for halloumi if you want something with more texture and richness. Produce like olives and tomatoes are also marvelous for a Mediterranean twist that gives the salad extra vibrancy.