G: Got it — let’s rebuild this oil with what you have. The original recipe is going for earthy, herbal, and tangy. Here’s how to substitute:

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1. Za’atar

Za’atar is usually a blend: thyme + oregano or marjoram + sesame seeds + sumac + salt.
Since you’re already adding oregano separately, you can approximate it with:

• 1 tsp thyme (dried)
• A pinch of sesame seeds (toasted, if possible)
• Small pinch of salt

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2. Sumac

Sumac’s role is lemony tartness. If you don’t have it:

• ½ tsp lemon zest or
• A few drops of lemon juice (but add at the very end so the oil doesn’t dull the acidity).

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3. Oregano

You already have this—keep the ½ tsp as written.

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4. The Oil

Use the ¼ cup of olive oil (or a neutral oil if that’s all you have). Olive oil is ideal for flavor.

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✅ Substitution Formula (per your recipe):

• 1 tsp thyme + pinch sesame seeds + tiny pinch salt
• ½ tsp lemon zest (or 2–3 drops lemon juice)
• ½ tsp oregano
• ¼ cup olive oil

Mix and let it rest 20–30 minutes so the flavors meld.

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Would you like me to give you a quick-prep version (just 2 ingredients + oil) that’s less fussy but still close in flavor, in case you don’t feel like measuring out sesame and zest?