Fattoush: A Taste of the Levant

Fattoush is more than just a salad; it's a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients and textures. This classic Middle Eastern dish is a delightful combination of crisp vegetables, fragrant herbs, and crunchy toasted pita bread, all tossed in a zesty sumac vinaigrette. Perfect as a light lunch, a refreshing appetizer, or a side dish to accompany grilled meats, Fattoush is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 2 cups day-old pita bread, cut into 1-inch squares
• 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 teaspoon sumac, divided
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1/2 cup chopped romaine lettuce
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Crisp the Pita: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, toss the pita bread squares with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1/2 teaspoon of sumac. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and deliciously crispy. Allow to cool completely – this is crucial for that signature Fattoush crunch!

2. Prep the Veggies: While the pita is cooling, prepare your fresh vegetables. In a large bowl, combine the diced cucumber, tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, chopped parsley, chopped mint, and chopped romaine lettuce.

3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of sumac, salt, and pepper. This tangy vinaigrette is the heart and soul of Fattoush!

4. Assemble the Salad: Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

5. Add the Crunch: Add the cooled, crispy pita chips to the salad and gently toss again. Be careful not to over-mix, as you want to preserve the crispiness of the pita.

6. Optional: Feta Finish: If desired, sprinkle the salad with crumbled feta cheese for an extra layer of salty, creamy goodness.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Light Lunch: Fattoush is a satisfying and refreshing light lunch option, especially on a warm day.
• As an Appetizer: Serve it as a vibrant appetizer to kick off a Middle Eastern feast.
• As a Side Dish: It pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, lamb, or fish.
• Elevate Your Fattoush: Consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or even pomegranate seeds for extra color and flavor. A sprinkle of za'atar on top is also a wonderful addition.

Enjoy this taste of the Levant!