Fattoush - Authentic Lebanese Mediterranean Salad Recipe

🍽️ About This Dish

Fattoush is a beloved Lebanese salad that reflects the vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients of Mediterranean cuisine. Originating from Lebanon, Fattoush has a rich history deeply rooted in the agricultural traditions of the region. This salad showcases the bounty of the Mediterranean with a harmonious blend of vegetables, herbs, and toasted bread.

🌿 Ingredients Overview

• Local Name (English Name) :
  • Sumac
  • Purslane
  • Arabic Cucumber (Persian cucumber)
  • Radish
  • Mint
  • Flat-leaf Parsley
  • Tomato
  • Green Pepper
  • Green Onion
  • Lettuce
  • Olive Oil
  • Lemon Juice
  • Pomegranate Molasses
  • Pita Bread

✨ What Makes It Special

Fattoush stands out for its use of sumac, a tangy spice that adds a distinctive flavor to the salad. The combination of fresh herbs, crunchy vegetables, and toasted pita bread creates a medley of textures and tastes that are both refreshing and satisfying. The salad is often enjoyed during hot summer days in Lebanon, offering a light and nutritious option for meals.

📝 Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon sumac
• 1 cup purslane, chopped
• 1 Arabic cucumber, diced
• 3 radishes, sliced
• 1/4 cup mint leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup flat-leaf parsley, chopped
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 green pepper, diced
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 head of lettuce, torn into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses
• 2 pita bread rounds, toasted and broken into pieces

👨‍🍳 Preparation Method

1. In a large bowl, combine sumac, purslane, cucumber, radish, mint, parsley, tomatoes, green pepper, green onions, and lettuce.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and pomegranate molasses to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Add the toasted pita bread pieces to the salad just before serving to maintain their crunch.
5. Serve the Fattoush immediately to enjoy its fresh flavors and textures.

⏰ Timing Guide

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

🥂 Beverage Pairing

Fattoush pairs beautifully with a glass of chilled Lebanese Arak, a traditional anise-flavored spirit. Alternatively, a refreshing mint lemonade complements the flavors of the salad and adds a cooling touch to the meal. Serve the Fattoush as part of a mezze spread or alongside grilled meats for a complete Lebanese dining experience.

💭 Chef's Notes

• For an extra crunch, toast the pita bread in the oven until golden brown before breaking it into pieces.
• Adjust the dressing to suit your taste preferences by adding more lemon juice or olive oil as needed.
• Experiment with additional toppings such as crumbled feta cheese or olives for a twist on the classic Fattoush recipe.

📦 Storage

Fattoush is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. Keep the toasted pita bread separate to maintain its texture and crunch, adding it to the salad just before serving. Rejuvenate any wilted greens with a sprinkle of water before serving to refresh the salad.

Enjoy the flavors of Lebanon with this authentic Fattoush recipe that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine in every bite. Bon appétit!