Mediterranean Marinated Mushrooms with Za’atar & Feta

Marinated mushrooms are a favorite of mine, and I’m always looking for new ways to enjoy them. This Mediterranean Marinated Mushrooms Recipe with Za’atar & Feta has become a go-to—I make a batch and keep it in the fridge when I’m craving something sweet, salty, and deeply satisfying.

The combination of ingredients truly shines here. Pomegranate molasses adds a tangy sweetness, olive oil brings richness, and za’atar infuses the dish with an aromatic, herby depth. I used dried za’atar leaves (without added seasonings), which made a noticeable flavor difference. But if you don’t have that, the more common za’atar blend works well, or you can mix oregano and thyme as a substitute.

Ingredients You Need

All the fresh ingredients prepped and measured—ready to create flavorful Mediterranean Marinated Mushrooms with Za’atar & Feta!

• Bella mushrooms – I used baby bella mushrooms, keeping the small ones whole and cutting the larger ones in half for a nice texture.
• Feta cheese – Cut into 1-inch cubes so it holds its shape while marinating.
• Pine nuts – Lightly toasted for extra flavor. You can also substitute with slivered almonds or seeds like pumpkin or sunflower, or skip them if you don’t have any on hand.
• Pomegranate molasses – Adds a tangy sweetness. If you don’t have it, balsamic vinegar makes a great alternative.
• Olive oil – Use a good-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
• Za’atar – I used dry za’atar (without added seasonings) for a more concentrated herby taste, but you can also use a regular za’atar blend or a mix of oregano and thyme.
• Lemon juice – Freshly squeezed for a bright, zesty kick.
• Fresh mint – Adds a refreshing, aromatic touch to the dish.

How to Clean Mushrooms

Gently wiping the mushrooms with a damp paper towel—keeping them clean without excess moisture for the perfect Mediterranean marinated mushrooms!”

To keep your mushrooms from getting soggy, avoid rinsing them with water. Instead, follow these simple steps:

1. Use a damp paper towel – Gently wipe each mushroom to remove any dirt.
2. Brush off debris – A soft brush or dry paper towel works well for stubborn spots.
3. Trim the stems if needed – If the ends look dry or tough, simply cut off a small portion.

Cleaning mushrooms this way helps them stay firm and absorb flavors better when marinated!

How to Serve Marinated Mushrooms

These Mediterranean-marinated mushrooms are incredibly versatile! Here are some delicious ways to enjoy them:

• As part of a mezze platter – Serve alongside hummus, baba ganoush, and tabbouleh for a flavorful appetizer spread.
• For breakfast – Pair with eggs (scrambled, fried, or poached) for a savory start to the day.
• Topped on a salad – Toss them over greens, grains, or roasted vegetables for extra flavor and texture.
• With grilled meats – Serve as a side to kofta kebabs, grilled chicken, lamb chops, or steak—perfect for BBQ gatherings!
• On toasted bread – Pile them onto crusty bread or pita with a drizzle of extra olive oil for a simple but delicious snack.
• In grain bowls – Mix with quinoa, bulgur, or couscous, adding fresh herbs for a Mediterranean-inspired bowl.
• With pasta – Toss them into warm pasta with extra feta and olive oil for a quick meal.

How to Store Marinated Mushrooms

To keep your Mediterranean marinated mushrooms fresh and flavorful, follow these storage tips:

• Refrigeration – Store the mushrooms in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days and taste better as they marinate longer!
• Olive oil may solidify – Since olive oil thickens in the fridge, let the mushrooms sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving, or give them a gentle stir to loosen the texture.
• Use a clean spoon – Always use a clean spoon when scooping out portions to keep them fresh and prevent contamination.
• Not freezer-friendly – These mushrooms are best enjoyed fresh and don’t freeze well due to the texture changes after thawing.