Fattoush Salad with Sumac

Name: Fattoush Salad with Sumac
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped; 1 cup radishes, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup mint leaves, chopped; 1/4 cup sumac; 2 pita breads, toasted and broken into pieces; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Nutritious & Fresh Meals

When I first tried Fattoush Salad, I was captivated by its vibrant colors and fresh flavors. This Middle Eastern dish combines crispy vegetables with the tangy goodness of sumac, creating an explosion of taste in every bite. We often whip it up for summer gatherings, as its zesty dressing and crunchy pita chips make it a perfect side dish. With a variety of textures and flavors, it's a salad that always impresses. You'll find that it’s not only refreshing but also quite satisfying, making it an ideal addition to any meal.

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2026-02-05T18:34:28.403Z

Fattoush Salad was a delightful discovery for us during a trip to the Mediterranean. The refreshing combination of crisp vegetables tossed with a tangy sumac dressing quickly became a favorite in our household. Each element of the salad complements the others, making it a harmonious dish that is both visually stunning and delicious.

One key tip I learned is to toast the pita bread until it’s golden brown and extra crunchy. This adds not just great texture but also a wonderful flavor to the salad. The warmth of the toasted pita mingles beautifully with the fresh veggies, elevating the entire experience.

Why You'll Love This Fattoush Salad
Crisp vegetables bursting with flavor
Zesty sumac adds a unique taste
Perfectly crunchy pita chips for added texture

Understanding the Ingredients

The variety of vegetables in Fattoush Salad not only contributes to its vibrant appearance but also to its nutritional profile. Romaine lettuce provides a crisp base, while radishes add a peppery bite. Cherry tomatoes bring sweetness and juiciness, and cucumbers offer hydration. Each ingredient brings its unique texture, making every mouthful an exciting experience. Additionally, fresh herbs like parsley and mint elevate the flavors, creating a fresh and aromatic taste that is characteristic of this dish.

Sumac, a tangy spice typical in Middle Eastern cuisine, plays a pivotal role in this salad. Its citrusy flavor contrasts beautifully with the richness of the olive oil and the acidity of lemon juice, delivering a unique flavor profile that defines Fattoush. If sumac is unavailable, a mixture of lemon zest and a dash of salt can serve as an alternative, but the distinct tartness of sumac is truly irreplaceable.

Preparation Tips for Success

When preparing the vegetables, ensure they are washed and thoroughly dried. Excess moisture can lead to a soggy salad, diminishing that desired crunch. A salad spinner is handy for drying leafy greens and preventing any wilting. For the best texture, slice vegetables just before serving. The longer they sit dressed in the salad, the softer they become, so prepare ingredients close to when you plan to serve.

To achieve the perfect pita chips, toast them until they are golden brown and crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes in a 400°F (200°C) oven. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning; they can go from perfectly crisp to charred quickly. Once toasted, break the pita into pieces; the size is up to your preference, but aim for bite-sized pieces that complement the salad.

Ingredients

Gather the following fresh ingredients for a vibrant Fattoush Salad:

Fattoush Salad Ingredients

2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
1 cup radishes, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup parsley, chopped
1/4 cup mint leaves, chopped
1/4 cup sumac
2 pita breads, toasted and broken into pieces
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're just a few steps away from enjoying this delicious salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Fattoush Salad:

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, sliced radishes, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and diced bell pepper. Toss them gently to mix.

Add Herbs and Seasoning

Fold in the chopped parsley and mint leaves into the mixture. Sprinkle the sumac over the veggies and add salt and pepper to taste.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice until well combined. Pour this dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.

Add Pita Chips

Finally, add the toasted pita pieces to the salad and give it one last gentle toss. Serve immediately for maximum crunch.

Your fresh and zesty Fattoush Salad is now ready to delight your taste buds!

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, allow the salad to sit for 10 minutes before serving to let the dressing soak in.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

Fattoush Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components in advance to save time on busy days. Wash and chop the vegetables and herbs two days ahead, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Just remember to keep the dressing and pita chips separate until you're ready to serve to maintain the salad’s freshness and crunch.

If you do have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, be aware that the crispy pita chips will become soggy over time. To revive the salad, you can add fresh pita chips just before serving.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Fattoush Salad shines as a side dish, complementing grilled meats or seafood beautifully. It can also stand alone as a light lunch or a refreshing starter. For a heartier meal, consider adding protein like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or feta cheese. These additions enhance the salad's nutritional content and create a satisfying dish that can fill you up.

Feel free to experiment with variations of the salad. Incorporating seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers can inject additional flavors and textures. For a spicy twist, adding sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the salad to new heights. Tailor it to your taste to explore different combinations!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make Fattoush Salad ahead of time?

It's best to serve it fresh, but you can prepare the vegetables and dressing in advance. Just combine right before serving.

→ What can I substitute for sumac?

If you can't find sumac, a mixture of lemon zest and a little salt can mimic its tangy flavor.

→ Is Fattoush Salad vegan?

Yes, this salad is entirely plant-based and suitable for vegans.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add veggies like carrots, radicchio, or even avocado for added flavor and texture.