Fattoush

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fattoush is the perfect combination of fresh, crunchy, and flavorful. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and works beautifully as a side or a light main dish. The toasted pita adds a satisfying crunch, while the sumac dressing gives it a distinctive citrusy flavor you won’t forget. Plus, it’s a great way to use up day-old pita bread and incorporate more vegetables into your meals.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pita bread

• Romaine lettuce, chopped

• Tomatoes, diced

• Cucumber, diced

• Radishes, thinly sliced

• Green onions, chopped

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Fresh mint, chopped

• Olive oil

• Lemon juice

• Garlic, minced

• Ground sumac

• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Cut the pita bread into small squares or triangles and toast in the oven or pan-fry until golden and crispy. Set aside to cool.

2. In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, green onions, parsley, and mint.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, sumac, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.

4. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss until well combined.

5. Just before serving, add the crispy pita pieces and gently mix to keep them crunchy.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time (for pita): 5–10 minutes
Total time: 20–25 minutes

Variations

• Add crumbled feta cheese for a creamy, salty touch.

• Mix in diced bell peppers for extra crunch and color.

• Use arugula or baby spinach instead of romaine for a different green base.

• Add chickpeas or grilled chicken for a more filling meal.

• Replace sumac with a little vinegar and extra lemon juice if unavailable.

Storage/Reheating

Fattoush is best enjoyed fresh, as the pita will lose its crispness once mixed with the dressing.
To store, keep the salad and dressing separate in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Add the dressing and pita just before serving for the best texture.

FAQs

What is sumac, and where can I find it?

Sumac is a deep red spice with a tart, lemony flavor. It’s commonly used in Middle Eastern cooking and can be found in spice shops or international grocery stores.

Can I use store-bought pita chips?

Yes, you can use plain, unflavored pita chips as a shortcut. Just break them into smaller pieces before adding.

Is fattoush vegan?

Yes, this traditional recipe is naturally vegan, using only vegetables, herbs, and pita bread with a simple olive oil and lemon dressing.

What’s the best bread for fattoush?

Day-old or slightly stale pita bread works best because it crisps up nicely when toasted or fried.

Can I make fattoush in advance?

You can prep the veggies and dressing ahead, but keep the dressing and pita separate until serving to maintain freshness and crunch.

What kind of lettuce is best?

Romaine lettuce is traditional, but you can substitute with other crisp greens like iceberg or a mix of spring greens.

What does fattoush taste like?

Fattoush has a bright, tangy flavor from the lemon and sumac, balanced by the fresh vegetables and crispy pita.

Is fattoush healthy?

Yes, it’s full of fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats, making it a nutritious and refreshing choice.

Can I add protein to make it a full meal?

Absolutely. Try adding grilled chicken, falafel, or chickpeas to turn it into a satisfying main dish.

How do I keep the pita crispy?

Wait to add the toasted pita until right before serving, and avoid overdressing the salad to keep it from getting soggy.

Conclusion

Fattoush is a fresh, flavorful salad that’s both simple and satisfying. With its mix of crunchy pita, crisp veggies, and tangy dressing, it brings a bold taste of the Middle East to your table. Whether you serve it on its own or alongside your favorite main dish, this salad is sure to impress with its bright flavors and vibrant textures.

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