A Mediterranean Inspired Breakfast

When I hosted my Airbnb, mornings became a small ritual of hospitality. I would always prepare a Mediterranean breakfast, a spread that was simple to put together. It required little more than boiling a few eggs and brewing fragrant cardamom coffee alongside a pot of saffron tea. A pitcher of freshly squeezed orange juice added brightness, while the rest involved artfully arranging a bowl of creamy yogurt, plump Medjool dates, briny Kalamata olives, and a basket of warm pita bread. Jars of jewel-toned jam glistened beside a platter of seasonal fruit, and no buffet felt complete without a dish of olive oil with za’atar for dipping.

Guests were surprised by the array and the aromatic fragrance that aroused their senses and appetite. Many considered it a real treat because the Airbnbs they stayed in rarely provided breakfastl—let alone one that felt abundant, thoughtful, almost celebratory. Some even confessed that they usually skipped breakfast altogether. That revelation opened the door to conversation, and over coffee, a guest leaned forward with curiosity.

“Is skipping breakfast really that bad for you?” she asked.

I nodded. “It can be. Skipping meals may increase the risk of gallstones. Without food, the gallbladder doesn’t release bile as often, and when bile sits idle, cholesterol can clump together. A balanced breakfast—especially one that includes fiber, healthy fats, and protein—can help stabilize blood sugar, support heart health, and keep cholesterol in check.”

Her expression shifted, first to astonishment, then to delight as she reached for another date. “Well,” she said, smiling, “that might be the best reason I’ve ever had to start eating breakfast, and by the way, this breakfast is simply amazing!”

Everyone nodded in agreement, enjoyed the perk of their stay, and left with a new perspective: breakfast isn’t just tradition or indulgence—it’s a daily opportunity to protect one’s health.

From the Indelible Chef's kitchen to yours, here is a homemade Za’atar recipe to kickstart your next breakfast buffet.

Ingredients:

• dried oregano

• dried thyme

• dried sumac

• ground marjoram

• toasted sesame seeds

• salt

Preparation:

1. Toast 2 tbsp of white sesame seeds in a skillet until golden brown. Then, let cool.

2. Combine 2 tbsp of dried oregano, thyme, marjoram and 1 tbsp sumac in a bowl; add the toasted sesame seeds and salt. Mix well.

3. Serve as a dip by mixing olive oil into the herb and spice blend.