Sometimes dinner is a postcard you can eat. Last week my kitchen smelled like warm spice and lemon, the kind of perfume that makes you set the table before the timer goes off. I rolled, pinched, and prayed those little triangles would keep their secrets. They did.

Inspired by Julie & Julia, I’m cooking my way through Magnolia Table Volumes 1, 2, and 3. I’m calling it The Jeanie Jo & Joanna Project.

Recipe 56 of 457 is Jo’s Fatayar, and here’s how it turned out.

Recipe Review: Jo’s Fatayar

Think savory hand pies with a springy, tender dough that bakes up golden at the edges and soft in the middle. The filling brings gentle warmth and depth, the kind that whispers rather than shouts. I loved how the corners crisped while the centers stayed pillowy. My triangle pinch improved with each batch. By the last tray I felt like a seasoned Lebanese auntie on a mission.

Texture: Soft inside, light crunch outside.
Flavor notes: Comforting spice, rich but not heavy.
Serving moment: Best warm, right off the sheet pan.

Nerdy Notes:

• Do not overfill. A modest spoonful keeps the seams sealed.
• Pinch, then pinch again. Steam will look for any escape.

Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Loved it. Clean plates and the “are there more” question at the sink.

Recipe 57 of 457 is Lebanese Salad, and here’s how it turned out.

Recipe Review: Lebanese Salad

Juicy tomatoes, cool cucumber, fresh herbs, and a sunny lemon olive oil dressing. It is the definition of balance. Bright, clean, and exactly what the fatayar wanted by its side.

Texture: Crunch meets juice, nothing soggy.
Flavor notes: Lemon-forward, herby, a good pinch of salt to wake it up.
Serving moment: Piled high next to warm pies, the colors alone feel like an invitation.

Nerdy Notes:

• Salt the tomatoes for a few minutes to deepen flavor.
• If you love a little sparkle, add a sprinkle of sumac. If not, keep it classic.

Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Loved it. Simple, bright, and absolutely repeatable.

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The Plate

Take a warm piece of fatayar, then scoop up the Lebanese Salad right on top. Perfect bite. Soft, savory dough meets lemony crunch and cool herbs. Heat meets chill. Rich meets bright. Yes.

Gracefully yours,

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