Lebanese Fattoush

Fattoush is a vibrant and refreshing Middle Eastern salad, known for its delightful crunch and tangy flavors. This salad combines crispy pita bread “croutons” with fresh vegetables, dressed in a zesty lemon and pomegranate molasses dressing. It’s the perfect side dish to complement any Mediterranean meal, or can stand alone as a light, healthy dish. The refreshing mix of textures, from the crispy pita to the crunchy veggies, makes every bite a burst of flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a refreshing salad that combines crispy, fresh, and tangy flavors, Lebanese Fattoush is a perfect choice. The star ingredient here is the crispy pita croutons, which add a delightful crunch to the fresh, crisp vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and radishes. The dressing, made with olive oil, lemon juice, pomegranate molasses, and a hint of garlic, ties everything together beautifully. It’s a perfect salad for hot days or when you want something light yet satisfying. Serve it with grilled meats or as part of a mezze spread for an authentic Middle Eastern experience.

Ingredients

Crispy Pita Bread “Croutons”:

• 2 pita bread or 1 Lebanese bread

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1/4 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt

Salad:

• 5 cups cos/romaine lettuce, cut into large bite-size pieces

• 2 Lebanese cucumbers, thinly sliced into 3mm rounds

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (~200g), or 1 1/2 regular tomatoes cut into large chunks

• 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced

• 5 red radishes, finely sliced

• 1/2 cup mint leaves, lightly packed (large ones torn in half)

• 1 tbsp roughly chopped parsley

Dressing:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

• 2 tsp pomegranate molasses

• 1 medium garlic clove, finely grated or crushed

• 1 tsp sumac (optional, but recommended)

• 1/2 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt

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

Directions

1. Make the crispy pita bread “croutons”: Preheat your oven to 220°C/425°F (200°C fan-forced). Separate the pita bread into 2 thin sheets and cut into 3 cm (1.2″) squares. Place the pieces on a baking tray, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and toss to coat. Spread the pita evenly on the tray and bake for 5 minutes or until crispy. Let the pita cool on the tray before using.

2. Prepare the dressing: In a small jar, combine the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, pomegranate molasses, grated garlic, sumac, and salt. Shake well to combine.

3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, radishes, mint leaves, and parsley. Drizzle over half of the dressing and toss to coat. Add most of the crispy pita bread and drizzle with the remaining dressing. Toss gently again.

4. Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving bowl, top with the remaining crispy pita, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 5 – 6 people

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 5 minutes (for the pita croutons)

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add proteins: For a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken, lamb, or chickpeas.

• Change the bread: You can substitute the pita bread with any flatbread of your choice for different flavors.

• Extra veggies: Consider adding bell peppers, radicchio, or even avocados for added texture and flavor.

• Spice it up: For some heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or fresh chopped chili to the dressing.

Storage/Reheating

Fattoush is best enjoyed fresh, as the crispy pita croutons will lose their crunch once dressed. If you plan to make it ahead, store the dressing separately from the salad and crispy pita. You can store the dressing in the fridge for up to 3 days and the pita in an airtight container for 1-2 days. Assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the freshness and crunch of the ingredients.

FAQs

How long will the crispy pita croutons last?

The crispy pita croutons can be stored in an airtight container for 1-2 days at room temperature.

Can I make this recipe without pomegranate molasses?

Yes, while pomegranate molasses adds a unique tangy flavor, you can substitute it with a bit of honey or balsamic vinegar for a different twist.

Can I use other greens instead of romaine lettuce?

Yes, you can substitute romaine lettuce with other leafy greens such as iceberg lettuce, arugula, or spinach.

Can I add grilled chicken to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken is a great addition to make this salad more substantial. You could also add lamb or beef for a more protein-packed meal.

What is sumac, and can I skip it?

Sumac is a tangy, lemony spice commonly used in Middle Eastern cooking. While it adds a unique flavor to the dressing, you can skip it if you don’t have any on hand.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

The salad can be prepared by chopping the vegetables and storing them in the fridge, but it is best to add the dressing and crispy pita right before serving to maintain freshness.

Can I substitute regular bread for pita?

Yes, you can use any flatbread you prefer in place of pita bread. Just be sure to toast it until crispy for that crouton-like effect.

Is Lebanese Fattoush vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan, making it an excellent option for plant-based diets.

How spicy is Fattoush?

Fattoush is not spicy unless you choose to add chili flakes or fresh chilies to the dressing.

Can I use bottled lemon juice for the dressing?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute in a pinch.

Conclusion

Lebanese Fattoush is a refreshing, crunchy, and flavorful salad that combines crisp vegetables, crispy pita croutons, and a tangy, zesty dressing. Whether served as a side dish or a light main, it’s the perfect addition to any meal. The balance of fresh ingredients and flavorful dressing is what makes this salad so irresistible. Make it today and enjoy a delightful taste of the Middle East right at home!