Zaatar Spring Rolls
A crispy, cheesy, and flavorful baked appetizer inspired by traditional Lebanese sambousek! Filled with halloumi cheese and fresh mint, then topped with zaatar, these spring rolls are easy to make and absolutely irresistible.
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.