Fattoush with Sumac is a vibrant and refreshing Middle Eastern salad that has captured the hearts of food lovers around the globe. This delightful dish is a staple in Lebanese cuisine, combining mixed greens, fresh vegetables, and crispy pieces of pita bread, all enhanced by the tangy flavor of sumac. Known for its unique taste and health benefits, Fattoush is not only a delicious accompaniment to any meal but also a nutritious powerhouse. As one culinary expert notes, “The combination of fresh ingredients and the zing of sumac creates a salad that is both satisfying and invigorating.” With its colorful presentation and zesty flavor profile, Fattoush with Sumac has become a popular choice among those seeking to explore healthy and flavorful options in Mediterranean cuisine.
Fattoush with Sumac
Fattoush is a traditional Lebanese salad that showcases the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean through a colorful medley of fresh vegetables, herbs, and crispy pita bread. Its distinctive flavor comes from the use of sumac, a tangy spice derived from dried and ground berries. This refreshing salad not only represents the agricultural bounty of the region but also embodies its culinary heritage by utilizing leftover pita bread, showcasing how food waste can be minimized while still delivering delightful flavors.
Preparation
Creating a delicious Fattoush salad is a straightforward process, perfect for anyone looking to indulge in a healthy and refreshing dish. Below are the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to make a traditional Fattoush with Sumac.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Tomatoes (diced) | 2 medium |
| Cucumber (chopped) | 1 large |
| Radishes (sliced) | 4 |
| Bell pepper (chopped) | 1 (any color) |
| Green onions (sliced) | 3 |
| Parsley (chopped) | 1/2 cup |
| Mint leaves (chopped) | 1/4 cup |
| Pita bread (cut into wedges) | 2 pieces |
| Olive oil | 1/4 cup |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Sumac | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | to taste |
| Pepper | to taste |
Instructions
- Prepare the Pita Bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the pita bread wedges on a baking sheet and lightly brush them with olive oil. Bake for about 10 minutes or until they are crispy and golden brown. Let them cool.
- Chop the Vegetables: In a large salad bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped cucumber, sliced radishes, chopped bell pepper, and sliced green onions.
- Add the Herbs: Add the chopped parsley and mint leaves to the bowl with the vegetables. Mix gently to combine all the ingredients.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, sumac, salt, and pepper to create a tangy dressing.
- Combine and Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad, and toss everything together until well coated. Finally, add the crispy pita bread pieces on top, and give it a gentle toss to combine.
- Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle additional sumac over the top before serving for added flavor and presentation.
Enjoy your fresh and zesty Fattoush with Sumac as a light meal or a side dish at your next gathering!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fattoush?
Fattoush is a vibrant Middle Eastern salad made with mixed greens, vegetables, and crispy pieces of pita bread.
What is Sumac?
Sumac is a tangy, red spice made from dried berries, often used in Mediterranean cooking to add a lemony flavor.
How do you make Fattoush with Sumac?
To make Fattoush with Sumac, combine chopped vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and radishes with greens, season with sumac, and toss with a lemony dressing.
What ingredients are typically in Fattoush?
Typical ingredients include lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, parsley, mint, and crispy pita bread, all seasoned with sumac.
Can I use different herbs in Fattoush?
Yes, you can substitute or add herbs like dill or cilantro to customize your Fattoush salad.
Is Fattoush vegan?
Yes, Fattoush is vegan and can be enjoyed by anyone following a plant-based diet.
How long does Fattoush last in the fridge?
Fattoush is best served fresh, but it can last in the fridge for 1-2 days if stored in an airtight container.
What can I serve with Fattoush?
Fattoush pairs well with grilled meats, falafel, or as part of a mezze platter.
Can Fattoush be made ahead of time?
You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time but assemble the salad just before serving to keep the pita crispy.
Is Fattoush gluten-free?
Fattoush is not gluten-free due to the pita bread, but you can use gluten-free bread as a substitute.
What type of lettuce is best for Fattoush?
Leafy greens like romaine or arugula are commonly used, but you can also use a mix of your favorite greens.
How spicy is Fattoush?
Fattoush is generally not spicy, but you can add chopped chili or hot sauce to adjust the heat level.
How much Sumac should I use in Fattoush?
Start with about 1-2 teaspoons of sumac for a balanced flavor and adjust to taste as needed.
Can I add cheese to Fattoush?
While traditional Fattoush doesn’t include cheese, you can add feta or goat cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
