There’s something magical about a bowl of Lebanese fattoush salad. The crunch of fresh vegetables mixed with the tangy burst of citrus dressing creates a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. It’s like a party in your mouth where every ingredient has its own funky moves!
Picture this: you’re at a summer gathering, laughter fills the air while the sun sets in a golden hue. Suddenly, someone brings out a colorful platter of fattoush salad that steals the spotlight. Friends dive in, and amidst the crunching and cheerful chatter, you realize you’ve just discovered your new favorite dish.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This vibrant Lebanese fattoush salad is incredibly easy to prepare and uses fresh ingredients
- The colorful presentation makes it an eye-catching side dish or main attraction
- Its refreshing flavor profile perfectly complements grilled meats or stands alone as a light meal
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on what’s in your fridge!
My aunt once made this fabulous Lebanese fattoush salad for a family reunion and it was such a hit that I had to promise her I’d never share the recipe. But here I am breaking promises like it’s my job!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Tomatoes: Use juicy ripe tomatoes for that sweet burst of flavor; they’re the heart of any good fattoush.
- Cucumber: Crunchy cucumbers add texture; go for Persian or English cucumbers for less bitterness.
- Radishes: These peppery beauties give an unexpected zing; slice them thinly for maximum impact.
- Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers not only enhance visual appeal but also contribute sweetness; mix red and green for variety.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley is essential; it brightens flavors while adding a pop of color and nutrients.
- Mint Leaves: Fresh mint adds aromatic freshness; don’t skimp here—it’s what elevates this salad!
- Pita Bread: Toasted pita gives crunch; use day-old pita bread if you have it for extra texture.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice ties everything together with its zesty punch; avoid bottled juice if possible.
- Olive Oil: Good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances richness; drizzle generously over your creation.
- Sumac Spice: Ground sumac brings that quintessential tartness; sprinkle it on top for an authentic touch.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Chop Your Veggies: Start by chopping tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, and bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniformity so every bite is delightful.
Toss in Fresh Herbs: Finely chop parsley and mint leaves before tossing them into your veggie mix. The fragrance will transport you straight to a Mediterranean garden.
Create the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil until well combined. Add salt and pepper to taste—this is where the magic happens.
Add Sumac Spice : Sprinkle ground sumac over your chopped vegetables before drizzling on the dressing. This unique spice adds depth to your flavor profile.
Toast Your Pita Bread : Cut pita bread into triangles and toast them until golden brown. They should be crispy but not burnt—keep an eye on them!
Toss It All Together : Gently combine all ingredients in a large bowl with your hands or two spoons—be careful not to crush those veggies! Serve immediately for maximum freshness.
Now you have yourself a beautiful serving of Lebanese fattoush salad that looks as amazing as it tastes! Enjoy every crunchy bite knowing you’ve brought a piece of Lebanon to your table.
With its playful mix of textures and zesty flavors, this Lebanese fattoush salad will brighten up any meal or occasion—from casual lunches to festive gatherings!
You Must Know
- Lebanese fattoush salad is not only colorful but bursting with fresh flavors
- The crunchy veggies and tangy dressing create a delightful experience that works wonderfully as a side or main dish
- Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover pita bread!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by toasting your pita bread until golden for a satisfying crunch. While it cools, chop your veggies and whisk together the dressing for maximum flavor absorption.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables or add proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas. Extra herbs can elevate freshness, giving your salad a personal flair!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Keep dressing separate until ready to serve for the freshest taste and texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the best flavor, let your salad sit for at least 15 minutes after tossing
- This allows the ingredients to mingle beautifully
- Always use fresh herbs for that vibrant taste boost!
- Lastly, balance acidity with sweetness by adjusting lemon juice and honey
Sharing this recipe always reminds me of summer picnics with friends, where we’d devour bowls of fattoush while laughing over silly stories. It’s pure joy on a plate!
FAQ
What is Lebanese fattoush salad?
Lebanese fattoush salad is a refreshing mix of greens, veggies, and toasted pita.
Can I make fattoush salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare ingredients separately and combine them just before serving to maintain freshness.
What can I substitute for pomegranate molasses?
Try balsamic vinegar or a mix of honey and lemon juice as alternatives.
Lebanese Fattoush Salad
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Experience a vibrant Lebanese fattoush salad, rich in fresh vegetables and herbs, drizzled with a tangy dressing. Perfect as a side dish or light meal.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 4 radishes, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- ½ cup parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup mint leaves, chopped
- 2 pita breads, toasted and cut into triangles
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground sumac
Instructions
- Chop tomatoes, cucumber, radishes, and bell pepper into bite-sized pieces.
- Finely chop parsley and mint; add to the veggie mix.
- Whisk lemon juice and olive oil in a small bowl; season with salt and pepper.
- Sprinkle sumac over the veggies and drizzle with dressing; toss gently.
- Toast pita bread until golden; add to the salad just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Lebanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: - Swap seasonal vegetables for variety. - Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein. - Dress the salad just before serving to maintain freshness.
