Fattoush is a refreshing Lebanese salad that brings together vibrant vegetables, crispy pita bread, and a zesty dressing. It’s not only colorful but also bursting with flavor, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. With fresh herbs and a tangy kick from pomegranate molasses, this salad is sure to delight your taste buds!
Why make this recipe
Fattoush is a fantastic way to incorporate a variety of fresh vegetables into your meals. It is light, healthy, and can be served as a side dish or a light main course. The use of toasted pita adds a wonderful crunch, and the combination of herbs gives the salad an enticing aroma. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or gatherings.
How to make Fattoush
Making Fattoush is simple and enjoyable. Just follow these easy steps:
Ingredients
- 2 pita breads, toasted or fried until crisp and broken into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup radishes, thinly sliced (optional)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon pomegranate molasses
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon sumac
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, pomegranate molasses, minced garlic, sumac, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, chopped green bell pepper, parsley, mint, and optional radishes.
- Add the toasted or fried pita pieces to the salad bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
- Serve immediately for the best balance of crunch, freshness, and zing!
How to serve Fattoush
Fattoush is best served fresh and can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or kebabs. You can also pair it with hummus or yogurt for a delicious Mediterranean-style feast.
How to store Fattoush
If you have leftovers, store the salad without the dressing to keep the pita crispy. Place the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, drizzle with dressing and toss.
Tips to make Fattoush
- Toast your pita bread until golden and crispy for the best texture.
- Use a mix of colorful vegetables for a more visually appealing salad.
- Adjust the amount of pomegranate molasses and garlic to suit your taste preferences.
Variation
You can add other vegetables like radishes or bell peppers for extra crunch. For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or feta cheese.
FAQs
1. Can I make Fattoush ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time, but add the dressing just before serving to keep the pita crispy.
2. What can I substitute for pomegranate molasses?
If you don’t have pomegranate molasses, you can use balsamic vinegar or a mix of honey and lemon juice for a similar tangy sweetness.
3. Is Fattoush vegan?
Yes, Fattoush is completely vegan as it contains no animal products. It’s a great option for plant-based diets!
