Labneh Cheese Recipe with Olives and Pistachios
This labneh cheese recipe (لبنة بالزيتون والفستق) is a classic Lebanese mezze that brings together creamy labneh with rich olive oil, fresh herbs, and crunchy nuts. It is simple, elegant, and perfect for serving as an appetizer or light side dish.
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
No cooking required
Total Time
10 minutes
Servings
4 servings
Ingredients
- 250 g labneh cheese
- 20 black olives pitted and finely chopped
- 1½ tablespoons fresh thyme leaves finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 small garlic clove finely minced
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon roasted pistachios or hazelnuts crushed
- 1 tablespoon roasted pine nuts
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
-
Spread the labneh evenly on a serving plate and gently press the surface using the back of a spoon to create small shallow wells.

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In a small bowl, combine chopped olives, thyme, parsley, lemon zest, garlic, pistachios or hazelnuts, pine nuts, chili flakes, salt, and all the olive oil except two tablespoons. Mix well until fully combined.

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Spoon the olive and herb mixture into the center of the labneh. Drizzle the remaining olive oil around the edges, then serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Labneh Cheese Recipe
- Use full-fat labneh for a richer and smoother texture.
- Chop the olives and herbs finely to keep the topping well balanced.
- Always add olive oil last to keep the surface glossy and fresh.
- Serve at room temperature for the best flavor.
What to Serve with Labneh Cheese
- Warm pita bread or flatbread
- Toasted sourdough slices
- Fresh cucumber and tomato slices
- Grilled vegetables
- Simple mezze platters
Enjoy Your Lebanese Labneh Cheese
This labneh cheese recipe is a true reflection of Lebanese home cooking. Creamy, fresh, and full of contrast between herbs, olives, and nuts. It is perfect for sharing and works beautifully as part of any mezze spread. Let me know if you try it and how it turns out.
You can explore the Dairy Products section on Elsouk
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