Crispy Za'atar Rice and Herb Salad with Lemon-Tahini Drizzle

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice, cooled
• 2 tablespoons za'atar spice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup mixed fresh herbs (parsley, mint, cilantro), chopped

• 1 cup tahini
• 1 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon water, warm
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground

1. 01
   In a large non-stick skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. 02
   Add the cooled jasmine rice to the skillet, spreading it out evenly. Let it cook without stirring for 5-7 minutes, or until the bottom is golden and crispy.
3. 03
   Sprinkle the za'atar spice over the rice, then gently flip sections of the rice to crisp the other side for another 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. 04
   In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and fresh herbs. Toss gently to mix.
5. 05
   In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, warm water, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
6. 06
   To assemble, place a generous portion of the herb salad on a serving platter.
7. 07
   Break the crispy rice into chunks and scatter over the salad.
8. 08
   Drizzle the lemon-tahini dressing over the entire dish just before serving.