Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Allow it to come to room temperature before rolling.

Can I substitute halloumi with another cheese?

Yes, you can use feta cheese for a slightly tangier taste.

How do I store leftover pide?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for yeast doughs as a substitute for all-purpose flour.

Turkish Zaatar-Spiced Pide with Halloumi and Olives

Name: Turkish Zaatar-Spiced Pide with Halloumi and Olives
Prep time: 2 h
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 4-6
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: All-Purpose Flour; Salt; Sugar; Active Dry Yeast; Warm Water (110°F/45°C); Olive Oil; Halloumi Cheese, grated; Black Olives, pitted and sliced; Zaatar Spice Blend; Olive Oil; Red Onion, thinly sliced; Fresh Parsley, chopped; Fresh Lemon Wedges; Additional Zaatar

A delicious fusion of flavors in a classic Turkish flatbread

This Turkish flatbread or pide features the vibrant flavors of zaatar spice, complemented by salty halloumi cheese and rich olives, creating a savory delight that can be served as a main dish or a hearty appetizer.

2 h 30 min
4-6
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Dough

All-Purpose Flour

2 1/2 cups

Salt

1 teaspoon

Sugar

1 teaspoon

Active Dry Yeast

1 tablespoon

Warm Water (110°F/45°C)

1 cup

Olive Oil

2 tablespoons

For the Topping

Halloumi Cheese, grated

200g

Black Olives, pitted and sliced

1/2 cup

Zaatar Spice Blend

3 tablespoons

Olive Oil

2 tablespoons

Red Onion, thinly sliced

1 small

Fresh Parsley, chopped

1/4 cup

For Garnishing

Fresh Lemon Wedges

for squeezing

Additional Zaatar

for sprinkling

Preparation

Preparing the Dough

Activate Yeast

In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in warm water. Let it sit until foamy, about 10 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.

Knead and Rise

Knead the mixture until a soft dough forms, for about 8-10 minutes. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm area until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Preparing the Topping

Mix Topping Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine grated halloumi, olives, zaatar, olive oil, and red onion.

Coat Evenly

Mix gently to ensure the ingredients are evenly coated and set aside until the dough is ready.

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Ensure the oven is fully preheated to achieve a crispy crust. Pro Tip: Use a pizza stone for more even heat distribution.

Cooking Process

Stretch the Dough

Punch down the dough and divide into two pieces. Roll out each piece into an oval shape about 1/4-inch thick.

Add the Topping

Spread the prepared topping evenly over each oval, leaving a narrow border around the edges.

Bake

Transfer to the lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and crispy.

Plating & Serving