How to make Lebanese Fattoush Salad
Lebanese Fattoush Salad: A Refreshing Delight
Fattoush is a quintessential salad in Syrian and Lebanese cuisine. It’s a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables, herbs, and the signature flavors of sumac and crispy pita bread. This beloved dish brings together the tangy, crunchy, and aromatic in a perfect harmony of taste and texture.
Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a light meal, Lebanese Fattoush Salad is an excellent choice. Let’s dive into how to make this flavorful dish, including all the steps and ingredients you’ll need.
Ingredients for Fattoush Salad
Below is a detailed table outlining the ingredients and their respective quantities:
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Salad Tomatoes | 3 large | Adds juiciness and flavor to the salad |
| Cucumber | 1 long | Provides a refreshing crunch |
| Spring Onion | 1 | Offers a mild, aromatic flavor |
| Red Bell Pepper | 1/2 | Adds sweetness and vibrant color |
| Radishes | 5 | Contributes peppery notes and crunch |
| Pita Bread | 1 piece | Adds crunch and a signature Fattoush touch |
| Parsley Leaves | 2 tablespoons | Enhances aroma and freshness |
| Mint Leaves | 2 tablespoons | Adds cooling, aromatic flavor |
| Coriander Leaves | 2 tablespoons | Brings a citrusy, herbal element |
| Lemon | 1 | For the tangy dressing |
| Sumac | 2 tablespoons | Key spice adding tangy, citrusy flavor |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 5–6 tablespoons | Base for the dressing |
| Lettuce (Optional) | As desired | Adds volume and texture |
| Green Pepper (Optional) | 1 | For added crunch and color |
| Black Olives (Optional) | A handful | Adds saltiness and depth |
| Feta Cheese (Optional) | 50–100g | For a creamy, tangy twist |
Instructions: Step-by-Step Preparation
| Step | Process |
|---|---|
| 1 | Wash all vegetables thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean cloth. |
| 2 | Chop the vegetables as follows: tomatoes (2-3 cm pieces), cucumber, radishes, and red pepper (2 cm slices). |
| 3 | Slice the spring onion into thin strips. |
| 4 | If using lettuce, cut it into strips, ensuring they’re not too thin. |
| 5 | Chop the mint leaves, parsley, and coriander into small pieces. |
| 6 | Cut the pita bread into cubes and toast them in the oven or grill until golden and crispy. |
| 7 | In a small bowl, combine one tablespoon of sumac, 5-6 tablespoons of olive oil, and 3-4 tablespoons of lemon juice. Beat the mixture with a whisk until emulsified. |
| 8 | Add all the chopped vegetables and herbs to a large salad bowl. |
| 9 | Pour the lemon dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat evenly. |
| 10 | Sprinkle the toasted pita bread cubes on top. |
| 11 | Garnish with an additional tablespoon of sumac for extra tanginess. |
| 12 | Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh Lebanese Fattoush Salad! |
Tips for the Perfect Fattoush Salad
- Customizable Add-ins: Include green peppers, black olives, or feta cheese for added depth of flavor.
- Dressing Consistency: Adjust the olive oil and lemon juice ratio based on your preferred tanginess.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve immediately after tossing the salad to retain the crunch of the toasted pita bread.
Nutritional Highlights
Fattoush Salad is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients:
- Tomatoes and Bell Peppers: Rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Herbs (Parsley, Mint, Coriander): Detoxifying and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Sumac: Contains powerful antioxidants and has a unique citrusy taste.
- Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats that enhance absorption of nutrients.
