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Fattoush is a traditional Lebanese salad that combines fresh vegetables, herbs, and crispy bread pieces, all topped with a tangy and flavorful dressing. It is a popular dish in Middle Eastern cuisine, celebrated for its vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients.
Ingredients for Lebanese Fattoush
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 radish, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 2 pita bread rounds, toasted and broken into pieces
- 1/4 cup sumac spice
- Olive oil for dressing
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparing the Fattoush
Start by washing and chopping all fresh vegetables and herbs. In a large salad bowl, combine the lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, radish, red onion, parsley, and mint. Toss them gently to mix.
Next, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, sumac, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste. The sumac adds a distinctive tangy flavor characteristic of Middle Eastern cuisine.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly. Just before serving, add the toasted pita pieces and gently mix to distribute them throughout the salad.
Serving Tips
Fattoush is best enjoyed fresh, with crispy pita adding texture. You can serve it as a side dish or a light main course. For extra flavor, sprinkle additional sumac or fresh herbs on top before serving.
Health Benefits
This salad is rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats. The fresh vegetables provide essential nutrients, while the olive oil adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. The use of sumac not only enhances flavor but also offers antioxidant properties.