Zaatar Spiced Pomegranate Pistachio Stuffing

Zaatar spiced pomegranate pistachio stuffing is a vibrant twist on traditional stuffing that I love making when I want something bold, aromatic, and full of texture. It brings together warm Middle Eastern spices, crunchy nuts, sweet bursts of pomegranate, and tender bread all in one dish. Whether I’m serving it for the holidays or a special dinner, it always stands out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this stuffing because it breaks away from the usual heavy, overly herby versions. The zaatar adds a lemony, earthy flavor, the pistachios give it a buttery crunch, and the pomegranate seeds add juicy pops of sweetness. It’s a balanced side that’s just as comforting as traditional stuffing, but fresher and more exciting. It also looks beautiful on the table with its mix of colors and textures.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Day-old bread (cubed – sourdough or rustic white bread works well)

• Olive oil or butter

• Onion (chopped)

• Garlic (minced)

• Celery (chopped)

• Zaatar spice blend

• Vegetable or chicken broth

• Shelled pistachios (lightly toasted)

• Pomegranate seeds

• Fresh parsley

• Salt and pepper

• Optional: lemon zest, chopped mint

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

2. I toast the bread cubes on a baking sheet for 10–15 minutes until slightly crisp, then set them aside.

3. In a large skillet, I heat olive oil or butter and sauté the onion and celery until soft. I add the garlic and cook for another minute.

4. I stir in the zaatar and season with salt and pepper.

5. I remove the skillet from heat and toss in the bread cubes, mixing to coat everything evenly.

6. I pour in the broth gradually while stirring until the bread is moist but not soggy.

7. I mix in most of the pistachios and pomegranate seeds, reserving a little for garnish.

8. I transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 25 minutes.

9. I uncover and bake another 10–15 minutes until the top is golden and slightly crisp.

10. I finish by sprinkling the remaining pistachios, pomegranate seeds, and fresh herbs on top before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves: 6–8
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

I enjoy switching up the flavors to suit different meals or occasions:

• I use dried cranberries or chopped apricots instead of pomegranate for a different sweetness

• I add browned ground lamb or turkey for a heartier version

• I mix in feta or goat cheese crumbles before baking for a creamy, tangy touch

• I use a mix of herbs like mint and cilantro for an even fresher flavor

• I add a drizzle of pomegranate molasses on top for extra richness

storage/reheating

I store leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I cover it with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If it looks a bit dry, I splash a little broth over it before reheating. It also reheats well in the microwave for quick leftovers.

FAQs

What is zaatar, and where can I find it?

Zaatar is a Middle Eastern spice blend typically made of thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and oregano. I usually find it in the spice aisle or at international markets.

Can I make this stuffing gluten-free?

Yes, I use gluten-free bread cubes, and everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Do I have to toast the bread first?

Toasting helps the bread hold its texture and prevents it from turning mushy. If I’m using very dry, day-old bread, I sometimes skip this step.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I assemble the stuffing and refrigerate it before baking. When I’m ready, I bring it to room temperature and bake as directed.

What type of bread works best?

I like rustic sourdough or a hearty white loaf. It holds up well and soaks in the flavors without falling apart.

Conclusion

Zaatar spiced pomegranate pistachio stuffing is a fresh, flavorful update on a classic side dish. It’s warm, fragrant, and full of interesting textures and pops of color. Whether I’m serving it during the holidays or adding a Middle Eastern twist to a dinner spread, this stuffing always impresses and adds something special to the table.

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