Mezze
Fatayer sabanekh (spinach triangles)

About this dish
Fatayer sabanekh are savory Lebanese spinach pies, beloved across the Levant for their flaky dough and tangy, sumac-spiced filling. These triangular pastries make a wonderful breakfast or mezze, especially when paired with a dollop of labneh or a side of pickled turnips.
My version stays true to tradition but sneaks in a touch of tahini for extra creaminess – because why not? The dough is surprisingly simple to work with, and the filling comes together in minutes.
Ingredients
UK and US measurements are both included for every recipe.
All-purpose flour
grain300 g (3 cups)
Active dry yeast
other1 tsp
Salt
seasoning1 tsp
Olive oil
fat1 tbsp
Warm water
liquid150-180 ml (⅔-¾ cup)
Spinach
vegetable450 g (1 lb) fresh, chopped
Imperial measurement: 450 g (1 lb)
Onion
vegetable1 medium
Tahini
other3 tbsp
Sumac
spice2 tbsp
Lemon juice
liquid2 tbsp
Salt and black pepper
seasoningto taste
Pomegranate molasses
other2 tbsp
Olive oil
fatto drizzle
Method
Activate yeast
10 minutesIn a small bowl, combine the yeast with 2 tablespoons of warm water and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 10 minutes until frothy.
Make dough
1 hour 10 minutesIn a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, olive oil, and enough warm water to bring the dough together (about 150-180 ml). Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Brush with olive oil, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled.
Prepare filling
10 minutesWhile the dough rises, place the chopped spinach in a large bowl. Sprinkle with salt, then squeeze out excess water by handfuls. Add finely chopped onion, tahini, sumac, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and optional pomegranate molasses. Mix well. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Preheat oven
0 minutesPreheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Shape fatayer
15 minutesDivide the dough into 12 equal pieces (about 50 g each). Roll each into a ball, then roll out on a lightly floured surface into a 4-inch (10 cm) circle, about 3 mm thick. Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of filling onto the center of each circle. Fold up three sides to form a triangle, pinching the seams to seal securely. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
Bake
20 minutesLightly brush the tops of the fatayer with olive oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown and the tops are lightly colored. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Chef's knife
Nutrition facts
Tips
- If the dough feels too dry while kneading, add a tablespoon or two of warm water until smooth and pliable.
- The tahini in the filling adds rich creaminess, but you can substitute extra olive oil if tahini isn't on hand.
- For a brighter, tangier filling, don't skimp on the sumac—its lemony punch is key to the classic flavor.
- Seal the edges well, otherwise the fatayer may open during baking and leak some liquid.
Serving suggestions
- Serve warm or at room temperature alongside labneh, fresh mint leaves, and a bowl of olives for a classic Lebanese breakfast spread.
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Recipe by
Sami Haddad
Specialises in Lebanese cuisineSami makes hummus with so much tahini it's basically a dessert. He is a chickpea champion.
Describe yourself in three words: Creamy, tahini-heavy, chickpea lover.