Growing up in a Lebanese household, our meals were often graced with an abundance of fresh, flavorful salads. Among my absolute favorites were this classic Fattoush Salad, the simple yet delightful Easy Lebanese Salad, a hearty Mediterranean Bean Salad, and the ever-popular Tabbouleh. Each offered a unique blend of textures and tastes, yet all shared a common thread: they were packed with healthy ingredients and delivered incredible flavor, making them ideal for a light lunch or a vibrant addition to any dinner spread.

Fattoush quickly became my go-to salad whenever I craved a satisfying, vegetable-rich bowl. Its appeal is particularly strong in the summer months when fresh produce is readily available at local farmers markets or flourishing in your own garden. This salad artfully combines crisp romaine lettuce with juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, vibrant radishes, and the signature toasted or fried pita chips, all brought together by an irresistible lemony sumac dressing.

To transform Fattoush into a more substantial meal, I often pair it with a protein source. Delicious options include savory Mediterranean Chicken, perfectly Crispy Chickpeas for a plant-based boost, or succulent Grilled Beef Kofta Kebabs. The versatility of Fattoush makes it a perfect canvas for countless meal combinations.

What is Fattoush? Unveiling a Middle Eastern Classic

Fattoush (Arabic: فتوش‎, also spelled fattush, fatush, fattoosh, or fattouche) is a beloved Levantine salad that has captured hearts for centuries. It’s traditionally made from pieces of toasted or fried khubz (Arabic flatbread) combined with a colorful medley of mixed greens and other fresh vegetables, most commonly radishes and tomatoes.

This signature Lebanese salad typically features a base of crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy cucumbers, peppery radishes, and ripe tomatoes, all crowned with those distinctive crispy pita bread pieces. In my family, eating Fattoush was a cherished tradition, a testament to its enduring appeal and wholesome goodness.

What truly sets Fattoush apart is its unique dressing. A harmonious blend of extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and aromatic sumac creates a tangy, slightly sweet, and utterly refreshing vinaigrette. Sumac, a burgundy-colored spice derived from dried berries, boasts a sharp, wonderfully lemony taste that enhances and brightens every ingredient it touches. This distinctive flavor profile is absolutely essential to the authentic taste of Fattoush.

Essential Fattoush Salad Ingredients: Freshness is Key

For precise ingredient measurements and detailed instructions, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card below.

• Greens: While romaine lettuce is my traditional choice for its crisp texture and mild flavor, Fattoush is adaptable. You can also experiment with other sturdy greens like kale or a mixed greens blend, as they hold up beautifully against the crunchy vegetables and pita chips, adding varied textures and nutrients.
• Pita Chips: These are the undeniable stars of any Fattoush salad, providing that satisfying crunch and a subtle nutty flavor. You can opt for high-quality store-bought pita chips or, for an extra layer of flavor and freshness, easily make your own using this simple recipe for Homemade Baked Pita Chips. Baking your pita chips while preparing the rest of the salad is efficient, or you can make them ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for convenience. Seasoning homemade pita chips with a touch of za’atar adds an authentic Middle Eastern touch!
• Fresh Vegetables: The beauty of Fattoush lies in its flexibility with vegetables. While my preferred combination includes ripe tomatoes (seeds removed for less water content), thinly sliced green onions, crisp cucumbers, colorful bell pepper, and peppery radishes, feel free to customize based on seasonal availability and personal preference. Other delightful additions could include finely chopped celery, shredded carrots, or even some thinly sliced red onion for a bolder bite. Always aim for the freshest produce possible.
• Fresh Herbs: Just like many celebrated Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes, fresh herbs are paramount in Fattoush. I generously incorporate fresh mint and curly parsley, which lend an incredible aromatic lift and vibrant flavor. These herbs not only taste amazing but also add a beautiful color contrast to the salad. For those who enjoy exploring flavors, fresh basil or dill can also be wonderful additions.
• The Dressing: The unique and unforgettable dressing is what truly distinguishes Fattoush from other salads. It relies on the distinct flavor of sumac, harmoniously blended with high-quality extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and minced garlic. This combination creates a dressing that is perfectly balanced – tangy and subtly sweet, yet delicate enough that it never overpowers the natural flavors of the fresh vegetables. For an even deeper, more complex tang, consider adding a teaspoon of pomegranate molasses to your dressing; it’s a game-changer for many traditional Lebanese recipes.

Step 1: Prepare and Mix Salad Ingredients. Begin by thoroughly washing and finely chopping all your fresh vegetables. Uniformly dicing the vegetables ensures an even distribution of flavor and texture in every bite. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the chopped vegetables, including the crisp romaine lettuce. Give them a gentle toss to distribute everything evenly.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Zesty Dressing. In a separate small bowl or a convenient salad dressing shaker, combine the minced garlic, salt, pepper, fresh lemon juice, rich extra virgin olive oil, and the essential sumac. Whisk or shake vigorously until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the dressing is emulsified. This ensures a balanced flavor in every drop.

Step 3: Dress the Salad to Your Liking. Pour about half of the prepared dressing over the mixed vegetables and toss gently to coat. Taste the salad and add more dressing as desired, adjusting to your personal preference for tanginess. If you have any remaining dressing, it can be stored in the refrigerator for later use.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve Immediately. Just before serving, sprinkle an additional pinch of sumac over the entire salad for an extra pop of color and flavor. Finally, crown your Fattoush with the crispy pita chips. This crucial step prevents the pita chips from becoming soggy, preserving their delightful crunch. Serve immediately to enjoy the salad at its peak freshness.

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