Adaline Recipes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is incredibly refreshing and packed with bold flavors. The crunch from the pita chips pairs beautifully with juicy vegetables, while the lemony dressing gives it a bright, tangy finish. It’s quick to prepare, healthy, and easily customizable based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
romaine lettuce
tomatoes
cucumber
radishes
green onions
fresh parsley
fresh mint
pita bread
olive oil
lemon juice
sumac
garlic
salt
black pepper

Directions

Start by preparing the pita bread. Cut it into small pieces and toast or fry until golden and crispy, then set aside.

Wash and chop the vegetables. Tear the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces, dice the tomatoes and cucumber, slice the radishes thinly, and finely chop the green onions, parsley, and mint.

In a large bowl, combine all the chopped vegetables and herbs.

In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, sumac, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.

Just before serving, add the crispy pita pieces and toss lightly to maintain their crunch.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional 5 minutes if you need to toast the pita bread.

Variations

You can add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it more filling. Some versions include pomegranate seeds for a touch of sweetness. You can also swap romaine lettuce for mixed greens or add bell peppers for extra crunch and color. If sumac is unavailable, a little extra lemon juice can provide a similar tangy effect.

Storage/Reheating

Fattoush is best enjoyed fresh. If you need to store it, keep the dressing and pita chips separate from the vegetables to prevent sogginess. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add the pita and dressing just before serving. This salad is not suitable for reheating.

FAQs

What is fattoush salad?

Fattoush is a traditional Middle Eastern salad made with fresh vegetables, herbs, toasted pita bread, and a tangy sumac dressing.

Can I make fattoush ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and dressing ahead, but keep the pita separate until serving.

What does sumac taste like?

Sumac has a tangy, lemon-like flavor that adds brightness to the salad.

Can I use store-bought pita chips?

Yes, store-bought pita chips work well if you’re short on time.

Is fattoush healthy?

Yes, it’s packed with fresh vegetables, herbs, and healthy fats from olive oil.

Can I add protein to this salad?

You can add grilled chicken, beef, or chickpeas to make it more filling.

What can I use instead of sumac?

You can substitute with extra lemon juice or a small splash of vinegar.

How do I keep the pita crispy?

Add the pita chips just before serving to keep them crunchy.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Fresh herbs are recommended for the best flavor, but dried can be used in smaller amounts.

Is fattoush gluten-free?

Traditional fattoush is not gluten-free due to pita bread, but you can use gluten-free pita as a substitute.

Conclusion

Fattoush salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together fresh ingredients and bold seasoning. Its crisp texture and tangy dressing make it a standout addition to any meal, whether served as a side or enjoyed on its own.

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