Recipe by Rotem Sher
With Toasted Pine Nuts, Za’atar, and Feta Cheese
Preparation time: about 20 minutes | Serves 8 as a shared centerpiece dish
About the Dish
A Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines simplicity, freshness, and the rich flavors of sun and earth.
The seared oyster mushrooms take the place of classic carpaccio, offering a tender yet meaty texture. Olive oil brings a clean, fruity depth, while the za’atar and tomatoes add brightness and herbal freshness. Crumbled feta and toasted pine nuts balance the plate with salty, nutty, and creamy textures. The dish bursts with natural color - greens, reds, and golds - as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 400 g fresh Oyster mushrooms from JARRA
- 5–6 tablespoons olive oil (or 30 g butter for a richer option)
- 60 g feta cheese
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 30 g toasted pine nuts
- 1 handful fresh za’atar leaves
- 2 ripe tomatoes
Preparation
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Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil (or butter, if preferred) with a pinch of salt.
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Once the oil is hot or the butter has melted, add the mushrooms and half of the za’atar leaves. Sear until lightly golden and aromatic.
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Season with freshly ground black pepper and continue cooking until the mushrooms release their moisture and begin to caramelize.
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Transfer the mushrooms to a serving plate, including some of the flavorful pan juices.
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Arrange the mushrooms neatly. Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts and remaining fresh za’atar leaves on top.
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Crumble the feta into generous chunks and scatter evenly over the dish.
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Cut the tomatoes in half and gently squeeze their juice over the mushrooms.
- Finish with an extra drizzle of olive oil, a touch of salt, and freshly ground pepper.
Serving Suggestion
Serve with a side of warm toasted bread or rustic pita to soak up the juices.
Nutritional & Health Benefits
Oyster mushrooms are a natural source of plant-based protein and antioxidants, supporting immune and heart health. Za’atar adds anti-inflammatory properties and herbal aroma, while feta provides calcium and healthy fats. Olive oil and pine nuts supply vitamin E and essential omega fatty acids. Together, this is a light, balanced dish full of Mediterranean vitality.
