There are some recipes that feel like a beautiful blend of tradition and innovation. For me, these Zaatar Spring Rolls are exactly that. They’re a modern twist on a classic Lebanese pastry called sambousek, which is a beloved cheese stuffed pastry that’s often fried and served as an appetizer. Growing up in a Lebanese family, sambousek was always a favorite, but the traditional wrappers can be hard to find. So, my mom and I came up with a brilliant shortcut: egg roll wrappers! The result is a crispy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible appetizer that’s become a staple in our home.
This recipe is a celebration of the vibrant flavors of the Middle East. The combination of salty, halloumi cheese (the “non melting” cheese!), fragrant fresh mint, and the earthy, tangy zaatar spice blend is pure magic. The first time I made these, my family couldn’t stop reaching for “just one more.” Now, they’re my go to for parties, game days, or anytime I want a snack that feels special but is surprisingly simple to make. And the best part? They’re baked, not fried, so you can feel good about indulging.
Imagine this: a perfectly golden, crispy spring roll, baked to perfection, with a satisfying crunch that gives way to a warm, savory, and slightly salty center. Inside, you’ll find a slice of halloumi cheese that holds its shape beautifully, studded with fresh, bright mint. The zaatar spice on the outside adds an earthy, tangy, and aromatic finish that’s quintessentially Lebanese. Every single bite is a delightful contrast of textures and flavors; crispy, creamy, salty, and herby. Dip it in creamy labneh yogurt cheese, and you have a bite of pure heaven. Let me show you how to make these crowd pleasing spring rolls.
Ingredient Spotlight: The Building Blocks of Flavor
- Halloumi Cheese: The star of the show! This Cypriot cheese is often called “non melting” cheese because it holds its shape beautifully when heated, making it perfect for baking or frying. It has a salty, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
- Egg Roll Wrappers: The perfect, readily available substitute for traditional sambousek dough. They crisp up beautifully in the oven and are easy to work with.
- Fresh Mint: Adds a bright, refreshing, and slightly peppery note that cuts through the richness of the cheese and complements the zaatar.
- Zaatar: A classic Middle Eastern spice blend made from dried thyme, sesame seeds, sumac, and salt. It has an earthy, tangy, and slightly nutty flavor that is absolutely irresistible.
- Labneh (Optional): A thick, tangy, creamy yogurt cheese that makes the perfect dipping sauce. It’s like a cross between Greek yogurt and cream cheese.
Step by Step Instructions: Your Guide to Spring Roll Perfection
This recipe is easier than you might think! Follow these steps, and you’ll be rolling like a pro in no time.
1Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2Prepare the Cheese: Cut the 16 ounce block of halloumi cheese into slices about the size and thickness of your thumb (about ½ inch thick).
3Set Up Your Station: Arrange the 16 egg roll wrappers on a dry cutting board or other work surface. Position them at an angle so that a corner of each wrapper is closest to you (like a diamond shape). Have your chopped mint, a small bowl of water for sealing, and your zaatar ready.
4Assemble the Spring Rolls: Place one slice of cheese at an angle in the lower third of a wrapper (closest to you). Sprinkle a little fresh mint over the cheese. Dip your fingers in the water and rub it around the edges of the wrapper.
5Roll and Seal: Beginning at the bottom corner closest to you, roll the wrapper up and over the filling. Fold the two side corners inward as you roll, like you’re rolling a burrito. Continue rolling until the wrapper is completely closed. Press lightly to seal the edges, adding a dab of water if needed. Place the finished spring roll seam side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
6Brush and Season: Lightly brush the tops of the spring rolls with olive oil or spray them with cooking spray. Sprinkle the zaatar spice generously over each roll.
7Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the spring rolls are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
8Serve: Serve immediately with labneh yogurt cheese for dipping, if desired. Enjoy these crispy, flavorful bites!
Expert Tips for Spring Roll Success
- Work with Room Temperature Wrappers: If you’re using frozen egg roll wrappers, let them thaw at room temperature. This keeps them pliable and prevents them from cracking. Do not microwave them.
- Keep Them Covered: While you’re working, keep the unused wrappers covered with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out.
- The Freezing Trick for Melty Cheeses: Halloumi doesn’t melt, which is why it’s perfect for this recipe. If you use a different cheese that does melt (like mozzarella), freeze the assembled spring rolls for at least 4 hours before baking. This will help the cheese stay intact and prevent it from oozing out.
- Make it in the Air Fryer: These spring rolls also cook beautifully in an air fryer! Preheat to 400°F, place the rolls in a single layer, and cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Don’t Overfill: Use a slice of cheese that’s roughly the size of your thumb. Overfilling can make the rolls difficult to seal and cause them to burst open during baking.
Recipe FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Can I make these ahead of time and freeze them?
Yes! This is a great make ahead appetizer. After assembling the spring rolls, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until solid. Transfer the frozen rolls to a freezer safe bag or container. You can bake them directly from frozen; just add about 5 minutes to the baking time.
What if I can’t find halloumi cheese?
You can use other firm white cheeses like Ackawi (a Middle Eastern cheese), queso blanco, or even mozzarella. However, since these cheeses will melt, I recommend freezing the assembled spring rolls before baking to help keep the cheese from oozing out.
Can I fry these instead of baking them?
Absolutely! If you prefer a more traditional fried spring roll, heat about 1 inch of oil in a deep skillet to 350°F. Fry the spring rolls in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
What is labneh, and can I substitute it?
Labneh is a thick, tangy yogurt cheese that is a perfect dipping sauce for these spring rolls. If you can’t find labneh, you can use plain Greek yogurt, sour cream, or a combination of the two. Add a pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store any leftover baked spring rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, I recommend using a toaster oven or a skillet with a little olive oil to crisp them back up. You can also microwave them, but they will be less crispy.
Make Ahead, Storage & Freezing Instructions
- Make Ahead: Assemble the spring rolls up to a day in advance and keep them in the refrigerator, covered, until ready to bake.
- Storage: Store leftover baked spring rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet for the best crispy texture.
- Freezing Instructions: Freeze assembled (unbaked) spring rolls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the baking time. You can also freeze baked spring rolls; reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions: The Perfect Pairings
- As an Appetizer: Serve these zaatar spring rolls as a starter for a Middle Eastern feast. Pair them with other favorites like hummus, baba ganoush, tabbouleh, and falafel.
- With a Dipping Sauce: Labneh is the classic choice, but you can also serve them with tzatziki, garlic sauce, or even a simple spicy harissa yogurt.
- As a Snack or Party Food: These are perfect for game days, parties, or any gathering. They’re easy to eat and always a crowd pleaser.
- With a Fresh Salad: Serve alongside a bright, refreshing Middle Eastern salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon herb dressing.
- Drink Pairing: A crisp, cold lager or a Sauvignon Blanc would complement the savory flavors beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with mint or a tall glass of iced mint tea is a perfect match.
Zaatar Spring Rolls
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Small bowl (for water)
- Pastry brush (for oil)
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 16 ounces halloumi cheese or other firm white cheese like Ackawi or queso blanco
- 16 7 inch square egg roll wrappers
- 1 small bunch fresh mint roughly chopped
- ¼ cup zaatar spice blend
- Small bowl of water for sealing edges
- Olive oil or cooking spray for coating
- Labneh yogurt cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Cheese: Cut the halloumi cheese into slices about the size and thickness of your thumb (roughly ½ inch thick).
- Assemble Spring Rolls: Arrange the egg roll wrappers on a dry cutting board, positioned at an angle so a corner is closest to you. Place one slice of cheese at an angle in the lower third of a wrapper. Sprinkle a little fresh mint over the cheese. Dip your fingers in the water and rub it around the edges of the wrapper.
- Roll and Seal: Beginning at the bottom corner closest to you, roll the wrapper up and over the filling. Fold the two side corners inward as you roll, like a burrito. Continue rolling until sealed. Press lightly to seal the edges, adding a dab of water if needed. Place the spring roll seam side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
- Brush and Season: Lightly brush the tops of the spring rolls with olive oil or spray with cooking spray. Sprinkle the zaatar spice evenly over each roll.
- Bake: Bake for 15 minutes, or until the spring rolls are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve: Serve immediately with labneh yogurt cheese for dipping, if desired.
Notes
- Wrappers: Keep unused wrappers covered with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out.
- Cheese Substitutions: If using a cheese that melts (like mozzarella), freeze the assembled spring rolls for at least 4 hours before baking to prevent the cheese from oozing out.
- Air Fryer Instructions: Preheat air fryer to 400°F. Place spring rolls in a single layer and cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Make Ahead: Assemble spring rolls up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Freezing: Freeze assembled, unbaked spring rolls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the baking time.
- Storage: Store leftover baked spring rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet for best results.
