You’ve had salads before. Maybe you’ve even pretended to enjoy them. But Lebanese Fattoush?
This isn’t just a salad—it’s a flavor bomb that’ll make you forget you’re eating something healthy. Crispy pita, tangy sumac, fresh herbs, and a lemon-garlic dressing so good you’ll want to drink it. Why settle for sad, wilted greens when you can have a dish that’s crunchy, bright, and unapologetically delicious?
Trust us, your taste buds will throw a party. And yes, it’s as easy to make as it is to devour.
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What Makes This Recipe So Good
Fattoush isn’t your average salad. It’s a textural masterpiece—charred pita chips add crunch, while juicy tomatoes and cucumbers keep it fresh.
The dressing? A punchy mix of lemon, garlic, and sumac (the underrated spice that makes everything better). It’s light but satisfying, healthy but never boring.
Plus, it’s ridiculously versatile. Serve it as a side, load it up with grilled chicken, or eat it straight from the bowl. No judgment here.
Ingredients
- 2 large pita breads, torn into bite-sized pieces and toasted
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup radishes, sliced (optional but highly recommended)
For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp sumac
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Toast the pita: Heat a pan over medium heat, add the torn pita pieces, and toast until golden and crispy.
No oil needed—just dry toast for maximum crunch.
- Chop the veggies: Dice the cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion. Toss them into a large bowl with the lettuce, mint, parsley, and radishes.
- Make the dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, sumac, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust—more lemon if you love tang, more sumac if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Combine: Pour the dressing over the veggies and toss well.
Add the pita chips right before serving to keep them crunchy. Pro tip: Don’t drown the salad—start with half the dressing and add more as needed.
Storage Instructions
Fattoush is best eaten fresh, but if you must store it, keep the dressing and pita separate. Veggies can hang out in the fridge for a day, but they’ll get soggy fast.
The pita chips? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. FYI, nobody likes a limp salad.
Benefits of This Recipe
This salad is packed with nutrients—vitamins from the greens, hydration from the cucumbers, and antioxidants from the herbs.
The olive oil delivers healthy fats, and sumac has anti-inflammatory properties. Plus, it’s low-carb if you go easy on the pita. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel good without tasting like punishment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Soggy pita: Adding the chips too early?
They’ll turn into sad, mushy crumbs. Toss them in last.
- Over-dressing: This isn’t a swimming pool. Start light and add more as needed.
- Skimping on herbs: Mint and parsley are non-negotiable.
They’re the flavor heroes.
Alternatives
No sumac? Use a pinch of lemon zest or paprika for a similar tangy kick. Gluten-free?
Swap pita for gluten-free crackers or omit them entirely. Want more protein? Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or feta cheese.
IMO, it’s hard to mess this up—just keep the flavors bright and the textures crunchy.
FAQ
Can I make Fattoush ahead of time?
You can prep the veggies and dressing separately, but assemble right before serving. Otherwise, you’ll end up with a soggy mess.
What’s the best substitute for sumac?
Lemon zest mixed with a tiny bit of paprika works in a pinch. But sumac is worth tracking down—it’s a game-changer.
Is Fattoush vegan?
Yes!
As long as you don’t add cheese or meat, it’s 100% plant-based.
Can I use store-bought pita chips?
Sure, but homemade tastes better and takes 5 minutes. Your call.
Final Thoughts
Lebanese Fattoush is the salad that actually deserves a spot on your table. It’s crunchy, zesty, and impossible to resist.
Whether you’re serving it as a side or making it a meal, this dish delivers every time. So skip the boring greens and make something worth eating. Your taste buds will thank you.
