Fattoush is a traditional Levantine salad that originates from countries like Lebanon, Syria, Palestine, and Jordan. It’s considered a type of “bread salad”, as it incorporates pieces of toasted or fried pita bread into the mix. The salad is typically a staple in Middle Eastern households, especially during the summer when fresh, ripe vegetables are abundant.

KEY FEATURES OF FATTOUSH

1. Fresh, Crunchy Vegetables:
   Fattoush is made with a variety of fresh vegetables like lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, and radishes, which are commonly found in Middle Eastern cuisine.
2. Herbs for Flavor:
   The salad is generously flavored with fresh herbs, particularly parsley and mint, which contribute to its fresh and vibrant taste.
3. Crispy Pita Bread:
   One of the distinguishing characteristics of Fattoush is the inclusion of pita bread pieces, which are either toasted or fried until crispy. This adds a delightful crunch to the salad.
4. Sumac:
   Sumac is a key ingredient in Fattoush. It’s a reddish-purple spice with a tangy, lemony flavor, made from ground sumac berries. This spice not only gives the salad its signature tang but also adds color to the dish.
5. Tangy Dressing:
   The dressing used in Fattoush is typically made with lemon juice, olive oil, and sometimes vinegar, which gives the salad a refreshing and slightly sour taste. Sumac is often added to the dressing for extra tang.
6. Variability:
   While the basic ingredients remain the same, there is room for creativity with Fattoush. Some variations might include vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even green olives. The size and shape of the vegetables also vary based on preference; some people dice the vegetables finely, while others prefer chunkier pieces.

CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE

• A Dish of the People:
  Historically, Fattoush is considered a dish of the people, made by Levantine farmers as a way to use leftover pita bread. By frying or toasting stale bread and mixing it with garden vegetables, farmers could create a delicious and hearty meal.
• Regional Variations:
  Fattoush varies slightly depending on the region. For instance, in Lebanon, Fattoush is often spiced with sumac, while in other areas, different spices like allspice or paprika might be added to the mix.
• Dietary Preferences:
  Fattoush is a naturally vegan dish and is a favorite during the Islamic fasting month of Ramadan, especially for breaking the fast at Iftar. Its refreshing ingredients and light nature make it a perfect accompaniment to heavier dishes or a stand-alone meal.

HEALTH BENEFITS

• Rich in Nutrients:
  Packed with a variety of vegetables and herbs, Fattoush provides essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Low in Calories:
  Because it’s primarily made of fresh vegetables, it’s a low-calorie option that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet.
• High in Fiber:
  The vegetables and whole wheat pita in Fattoush provide plenty of fiber, which supports digestive health.

Fattoush is loved for its simplicity, vibrant colors, and refreshing flavors, making it an ideal dish for warm weather or as part of a mezze spread.

Here’s an authentic recipe for Fattoush, a delicious Middle Eastern salad known for its bright flavors and crunchy bread. This salad uses fresh herbs, vegetables, and sumac for that distinctive tangy flavor. Here’s how you can make it:

INGREDIENTS

For the Salad:

• 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 large tomato, diced
• 1 large cucumber, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 5-6 radishes, thinly sliced
• 1 small bunch parsley, finely chopped
• 1 small bunch mint, finely chopped
• 3-4 green onions, thinly sliced
• 2 pita breads, toasted or fried, broken into bite-sized pieces

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tbsp lemon juice (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar (optional)
• 1-2 tsp sumac (this gives the salad its authentic tangy flavor)
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

HERE’S HOW YOU MAKE IT

1. Prepare the pita bread:
   • Toast: Lightly brush pita bread with olive oil and toast in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until crispy and golden, then break into small pieces.
   • Fry: Alternatively, cut the pita bread into small triangles and shallow fry them in olive oil until crispy, then drain on paper towels.
2. Prepare the vegetables:
   Wash and chop the lettuce, tomato, cucumber, bell pepper, radishes, parsley, mint, and green onions. Combine them in a large salad bowl.
3. Make the dressing:
   In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, sumac, cumin, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble the salad:
   Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Just before serving, add the crispy pita pieces and toss lightly.
5. Garnish:
   Sprinkle additional sumac on top if desired for an extra burst of flavor.

TIPS

• You can add other seasonal vegetables like carrots or red onions for variation.
• Adjust the tanginess by increasing or reducing the amount of lemon juice or sumac.

Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Fattoush!