Salads

Authentic Lebanese Fattoush

Name: Authentic Lebanese Fattoush
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2-3 pieces pita bread, cut into 1-inch pieces; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for pita, optional); 1 head romaine lettuce, torn into bite-size pieces; 2 large tomatoes, diced; 1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped; 1 medium cucumber, diced; 1 cup chopped purslane (optional); 4 green onions, chopped; 1/2 (5 ounce) package arugula; 1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley; 1/2 cup water; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons sumac powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper (or to taste); 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (for dressing)

A vibrant and refreshing Lebanese bread salad featuring crisp vegetables, a tangy sumac-lemon dressing, and crunchy toasted pita bread. It's a staple on any Lebanese table.

Instructions

Prepare the pita bread: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange pita pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle lightly with olive oil (optional). Bake for 8-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Alternatively, you can fry them in a little olive oil until golden. Set aside to cool.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the water and cornstarch until smooth. In a separate medium bowl, combine the lemon juice, minced garlic, sumac powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk in the cornstarch mixture, then slowly drizzle in the 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, whisking constantly until emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Prepare the salad vegetables: In a large salad bowl, combine the torn romaine lettuce, diced tomatoes, chopped green bell pepper, diced cucumber, chopped purslane (if using), chopped green onions, arugula, and chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley.
Just before serving, pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat.
Add the cooled toasted pita bread pieces to the salad and toss once more. Serve immediately to ensure the pita remains crispy.

Fattoush is a beloved Lebanese salad, renowned for its medley of fresh vegetables, crunchy toasted pita bread, and a bright, zesty dressing. This recipe captures the essence of this classic, highlighting the vibrant flavors of sumac, lemon, and fresh herbs. It’s a perfect light meal or a fantastic side dish for any occasion.