Fattoush is colorful, crunchy, and loaded with fresh ingredients. It’s quick to prepare and packed with textures and flavors, from the crispy pita chips to the juicy tomatoes and refreshing cucumbers. The sumac dressing adds a delicious tang that makes this salad stand out from other greens-based dishes. It’s also vegan, healthy, and endlessly adaptable based on what you have on hand.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Pita bread, cut into pieces and toasted or fried
Romaine lettuce, chopped
Cucumber, diced
Tomatoes, chopped
Radishes, thinly sliced
Red onion or green onion, thinly sliced
Fresh parsley, chopped
Fresh mint leaves, chopped
For the dressing:
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Garlic, minced
Sumac
Salt
Black pepper
Pomegranate molasses (optional for added sweetness and depth)
Directions
Preheat oven to 375°F or heat oil in a pan. Toast or fry the pita bread pieces until golden and crispy. Set aside to cool.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, radishes, onions, parsley, and mint.
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, sumac, salt, pepper, and pomegranate molasses if using.
Just before serving, add the crispy pita chips to the salad bowl.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well combined.
Serve immediately for the freshest texture and flavor.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 to 6 people and takes approximately 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes to toast or fry the pita, totaling 25 minutes.
Variations
Add Protein: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a complete meal.
Grain Addition: Mix in cooked quinoa or bulgur for extra heartiness.
No Pomegranate Molasses?: Use a touch of honey and extra lemon juice instead.
Different Greens: Swap romaine with arugula, baby spinach, or a mix of greens.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or crushed garlic to the dressing for extra kick.
Storage/Reheating
Fattoush is best served immediately after adding the dressing and pita chips, as the bread will lose its crunch over time. If making ahead, keep the salad, pita chips, and dressing separate. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though the texture may soften. Do not freeze.
FAQs
What is fattoush?
Fattoush is a Lebanese salad made with mixed vegetables, herbs, and crispy pita bread, all tossed in a tangy lemon-sumac dressing.
What does sumac taste like?
Sumac has a tangy, lemony flavor that adds brightness to the dressing without the need for vinegar.
Can I make fattoush without sumac?
You can substitute with extra lemon juice, but sumac is essential for authentic flavor and is worth sourcing if possible.
Is fattoush gluten-free?
Traditional fattoush uses pita bread, which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pita or omit the bread.
Can I fry the pita instead of toasting?
Yes, frying the pita gives an extra crispy texture and rich flavor. Drain on paper towels after frying.
Can I make fattoush ahead of time?
Yes, prep all ingredients ahead but keep the pita and dressing separate until ready to serve.
What is pomegranate molasses?
It’s a thick, tangy-sweet syrup made from reduced pomegranate juice. It adds depth to the dressing but is optional.
What’s the difference between fattoush and tabbouleh?
Fattoush is made with larger chopped vegetables and pita, while tabbouleh is primarily parsley-based with bulgur.
Can I add cheese to fattoush?
It’s not traditional, but crumbled feta or halloumi can be a tasty addition.
What’s the best way to serve fattoush?
Serve it chilled or at room temperature as a side dish, appetizer, or light main course.
Conclusion
Lebanese Fattoush Salad is a refreshing, tangy, and colorful dish that celebrates the flavors of the Mediterranean. With crisp vegetables, aromatic herbs, and crunchy pita bread tossed in a vibrant sumac-lemon dressing, it’s a healthy and satisfying salad that never gets boring. Whether you serve it alongside grilled meats or enjoy it on its own, fattoush brings bold flavor and freshness to every bite.
Lebanese Fattoush Salad is a refreshing and vibrant Middle Eastern salad made with crisp vegetables, herbs, and crunchy toasted pita bread, all tossed in a tangy sumac-lemon dressing. It’s a healthy and flavorful dish perfect as a side or light main.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:25 minutes
Yield:4–6 servings
Category:Salad
Method:Tossing
Cuisine:Middle Eastern
Diet:Vegan
Ingredients
2 pita breads, cut into pieces and toasted or fried
1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
1 cucumber, diced
2 tomatoes, chopped
4 radishes, thinly sliced
½ red onion or 2 green onions, thinly sliced
½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
For the dressing:
¼ cup olive oil
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon ground sumac
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon pomegranate molasses (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (or heat oil in a pan). Toast or fry the pita bread pieces until golden and crispy. Let cool.
In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, radishes, onions, parsley, and mint.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, sumac, salt, pepper, and pomegranate molasses (if using).
Right before serving, add the crispy pita chips to the salad.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until well combined.
Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
Keep pita chips and dressing separate until serving to prevent sogginess.Use gluten-free pita for a gluten-free version.Fattoush pairs well with grilled meats, falafel, or as part of a mezze platter.Add grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it a hearty main course.Pomegranate molasses adds depth but can be replaced with honey and more lemon juice if unavailable.
