Lebanese Fattoush

Lebanese Fattoush: A Crisp and Zesty Spring Salad

Fattoush is a vibrant Lebanese salad known for its refreshing mix of vegetables and herbs, crisp toasted pita, and tangy sumac-spiked dressing. It's a staple of Levantine cuisine and especially popular in spring when fresh greens and herbs are abundant. This salad is perfect as a light appetizer or a side to grilled dishes.

Ingredients

For 4 servings:

• 2 pita breads, cut into small pieces
• 1 small head romaine lettuce, chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 4 radishes, thinly sliced
• 2 green onions, sliced
• ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh mint leaves
• 1 tablespoon ground sumac
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt to taste

Preparation

Toasting the Pita

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Place pita pieces on a baking sheet and toast for 8–10 minutes until golden and crispy.

Making the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, sumac, and salt.

Assembling the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, radishes, green onions, parsley, and mint.
2. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
3. Add the crispy pita pieces just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Tips and Variations

• Grill the pita: For extra flavor, grill the pita instead of baking it.
• Add bell peppers: Sliced red or yellow peppers add color and sweetness.
• Make it a meal: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for protein.

FAQ

What is sumac and where can I find it?

Sumac is a tangy spice made from dried berries. It’s common in Middle Eastern stores and spice shops.

Can I make Fattoush ahead of time?

You can prep the vegetables and dressing ahead, but add pita and dressing just before serving to keep everything crisp.

Is Fattoush gluten-free?

Not traditionally, but you can use gluten-free pita or omit it entirely for a gluten-free version.

Conclusion

Lebanese Fattoush is a celebration of fresh spring produce, zesty dressing, and satisfying crunch. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and a healthy, flavorful way to start any meal.