Fattoush Salad: A Fresh and Flavorful Middle Eastern Delight
Fattoush, a vibrant and refreshing salad hailing from the Levant region, is a beloved dish known for its unique combination of crisp vegetables, toasted pita bread, and a tangy sumac-lemon dressing. This recipe will guide you through creating a delicious fattoush salad that's perfect for a light lunch, a vibrant side dish, or a stunning appetizer. Let's dive into the ingredients and steps!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe yields about 4 servings. Feel free to adjust quantities based on your needs.
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For the Salad:
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint
- 4-5 pieces of pita bread, cut into 1-inch pieces
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For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses (optional, but adds a lovely depth)
- 1 tablespoon sumac
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions: Making Your Fattoush Masterpiece
Step 1: Prepare the Pita Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread the pita bread pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye to prevent burning. Set aside to cool.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, romaine lettuce, parsley, and mint. Gently toss to combine.
Step 3: Whisk the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, pomegranate molasses (if using), sumac, cumin, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want a little more lemon juice or salt depending on your preferences.
Step 4: Combine and Serve:
- Add the toasted pita bread to the salad.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Be careful not to over-toss, as you want to maintain the crispness of the vegetables and the pita bread.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the explosion of fresh flavors!
Tips for the Perfect Fattoush:
- Fresh Herbs are Key: Don't skimp on the parsley and mint; they provide a crucial element of freshness and aroma.
- Toasting the Pita: Toasting the pita bread is essential for adding texture and a subtle nutty flavor. Don't over-toast it, or it will become too hard.
- Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice, olive oil, and spices to your liking. Some people prefer a more lemony dressing, while others prefer a more robust flavor.
- Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables to your fattoush salad, such as chopped bell peppers, carrots, or even chickpeas for extra protein.
This Fattoush salad recipe provides a delicious and healthy meal option. Its unique blend of flavors and textures is sure to impress your friends and family! Remember to use high-quality ingredients for the best results. Enjoy!
