fattoush
Fattoush is the Lebanese salad you'll love—crispy pita, fresh veggies, and herbs for a light, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Method
Preparing the Fattoush Salad
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Cut the pita bread into bite-sized pieces.
- Spread the pita pieces on a baking sheet and bake for 7-9 minutes or until golden and crispy. Let them cool.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, radishes, parsley, and mint.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, sumac, salt, and black pepper until well blended.
- Drizzle the dressing over the vegetables and toss to coat evenly.
- Add the toasted pita chips and gently mix. Serve immediately to keep the pita crisp.
Notes
Fattoush is a beloved classic in Lebanese and Middle Eastern cuisine, loved for its vibrant flavor and incredible versatility. The combination of crisp, fresh vegetables and crunchy pita makes this salad an excellent choice for a light lunch, a starter, or as a refreshing companion to hearty dishes like grilled meats or falafel.
Tip for the crispiest pita: Allow the baked pita pieces to cool completely before adding them to the salad. If you're making Fattoush ahead of time, keep the toasted pita on the side and mix it in just before serving. This prevents sogginess and maintains the texture that makes the dish so distinctive.
Easy ingredient swaps: Don’t have sumac? Try a sprinkle of lemon zest and extra black pepper for tang. Persian cucumbers give a delicate bite, but if they’re unavailable, regular cucumber (peeled and de-seeded) works well. Radishes add peppery crunch, but you can substitute with thinly sliced bell peppers for a milder option.
Salad dressing secrets: For a well-emulsified dressing, whisk olive oil into the lemon juice and vinegar in a slow stream. Taste and adjust the seasoning before tossing with the veggies. Using extra-fresh herbs like parsley and mint really brightens the flavors—add them just before serving for maximum aroma.
Serving and pairing ideas: Fattoush is delicious alongside grilled chicken, lamb skewers, or as part of a mezze spread with hummus and baba ganoush. Want to make it a meal? Add drained chickpeas or grilled halloumi for protein.
