Classic Fattoush Recipe
Introduction
Classic Fattoush is a vibrant and refreshing Middle Eastern salad known for its crisp vegetables and tangy lemon dressing. This easy-to-make dish features fresh pita bread pieces that add a delightful crunch, making it perfect for a light lunch or a colorful side.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed fresh vegetables (such as cucumbers, tomatoes, radishes, and bell peppers), chopped
- 2 pita breads, toasted and broken into bite-sized pieces
- Juice of 1 large lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs like parsley or mint, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the chopped fresh vegetables with the toasted pita pieces.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Step 3: Pour the lemon dressing over the vegetables and pita, then toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Step 4: Sprinkle with fresh herbs if desired, and serve the salad immediately to enjoy its crisp texture.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, toast the pita bread with a sprinkle of sumac or za’atar before breaking it into pieces.
- Feel free to add diced onions or radishes for added crunch and spice.
- Use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled for the brightest, freshest taste.
- If you prefer, swap pita bread for homemade crispy flatbread chips.
Storage
Fattoush is best enjoyed fresh due to the toasted pita, which can become soggy over time. If you need to store leftovers, keep the salad and toasted pita separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to one day. Add the pita just before serving and toss gently to maintain crunch.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make Fattoush ahead of time?
It’s best to prepare the vegetables and dressing in advance, but keep the toasted pita separate and add it just before serving to maintain its crispness.
What can I use instead of pita bread?
If pita is not available, crispy flatbread, pita chips, or even toasted bread cubes can work as a crunchy complement in Fattoush.
PrintClassic Fattoush Recipe
Classic Fattoush is a refreshing Middle Eastern salad featuring fresh vegetables, crispy pita bread, and a tangy lemon dressing. This vibrant salad is perfect as a light meal or side dish, combining crunchy textures with bright, zesty flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/2 cup sliced radishes
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
Pita
- 2 pita breads, toasted and broken into bite-sized pieces
Lemon Dressing
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground sumac
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and chop the romaine lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, radishes, green onions, parsley, and mint. Place all the chopped vegetables in a large salad bowl.
- Toast the Pita Bread: Toast the pita breads in a toaster or oven until crisp. Once cool, break them into bite-sized pieces and add to the salad bowl.
- Make the Lemon Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, ground sumac, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Combine and Toss: Pour the lemon dressing over the vegetables and pita pieces. Toss everything together gently to ensure the dressing coats all ingredients evenly.
- Serve Fresh: Serve the fattoush immediately to enjoy the crisp freshness of the vegetables and pita.
Notes
- Sumac adds a unique tart flavor typical in Middle Eastern cuisine; if unavailable, lemon zest can be a substitute.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute pita with gluten-free crackers or omit entirely.
- Add pomegranate seeds for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.
Keywords: Fattoush, Middle Eastern salad, Lemon dressing salad, Pita bread salad, Healthy salad, Vegetarian salad
