Go Back
Fattoush salad

fattoush

Fattoush salad bursts with crispy pita and fresh herbs for a zesty, healthy Mediterranean meal. Discover how to make it tasty!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Total Time 31 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cup romaine lettuce chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup cucumber diced
  • 0.5 cup radish thinly sliced
  • 0.25 cup red onion thinly sliced
  • 1 cup pita bread cut into pieces, toasted or baked
  • 0.5 cup flat-leaf parsley chopped
  • 0.25 cup fresh mint chopped
  • 0.25 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoon lemon juice fresh
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sumac
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and toast the pita bread pieces until golden and crispy. Set aside to cool.
  2. Wash and chop the romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, radish, red onion, parsley, and mint. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Add the cooled, toasted pita bread pieces to the bowl with the vegetables and herbs.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, sumac, salt, and pepper until well emulsified.
  5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, making sure everything is evenly coated.
  6. Serve immediately to maintain the bread’s crunch and enjoy your fresh fattoush salad!

Notes

Fattoush salad is a true star of Middle Eastern cuisine, prized for its vibrant freshness and crunchy textures. Easy to assemble, it's endlessly adaptable—perfect as a side or a light main dish during warm days, and a great way to use up leftover pita bread.

Smart Tips for Perfect Fattoush

For the crispiest pita crunch, toast the bread just before serving and let it cool thoroughly before tossing with the vegetables. This prevents sogginess. Day-old pita works best, adding both texture and character.
Sumac is the secret ingredient for Fattoush's signature tangy flavor. If you can't find sumac, a splash more lemon juice makes a good substitute, but true sumac lends a unique citrusy depth. For extra flavor, try mixing in a pinch of za'atar or a few drops of pomegranate molasses.

Prep Tricks for a Fresh Salad

Chop your vegetables right before serving for the brightest colors and flavors. Use a sharp knife, as dull blades can bruise herbs and soft vegetables. If meal-prepping, store washed greens, chopped veggies, and pita separately; only combine them at the last minute. This keeps everything crisp.

Serving and Variation Inspiration

Fattoush pairs beautifully with grilled meats or falafel, hummus, baba ghanoush, or a simple lentil soup. For a protein boost, add chickpeas, feta, or grilled chicken. You can also swap lettuce for arugula, add diced bell pepper, or mix in seasonal herbs like cilantro or dill.
Serve fattoush in a wide, shallow dish to display its colorful ingredients. Top with extra herbs and a sprinkle of sumac right before eating to heighten aroma and visual appeal.
With these insights, your fattoush salad will be not just fresh and flavorful, but truly memorable.