Simple Fattoush Salad (Middle Eastern Favorite)
Fattoush salad is one of those salads that tastes fresh, bright, and effortlessly simple — yet somehow feels special every single time. This authentic Labanese salad is made with crisp romaine lettuce, juicy tomatoes, cucumbers, toasted pita chips, and a lemony sumac dressing that brings everything together. It’s crunchy, tangy, and incredibly refreshing… the salad that proves salads don’t have to be boring.
What makes fattoush salad unique is the toasted pita bread (yes- I have a simple short cut for that) and the bold flavor of sumac — a deep red spice that gives the dressing its signature tang. Whether you’re serving it alongside a weeknight dinner, or including it as part of your Ramadan recipes, this classic Arabic salad always brings color, texture, and balance to the table.
What you will need:
- Romaine lettuce
- Red bell pepper
- Red onion
- Cucumber
- Cherry tomatoes
- Pita chips
- Lemon juice
- Olive oil
- Honey
- Dried mint
- Sumac Do not skip this! It is the star of the show!
Why You’ll Love This Fattoush Salad Recipe
- Light yet satisfying. Made with fresh vegetables, olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, this fattoush recipe is simple, clean, and full of real flavor. The crunchy pita bread gives a nice texture while still keeping it light and refreshing.
- Quick and easy to make. With simple ingredients and my shortcut for the toasted pita chips, this salad comes together in minutes.
- Perfect for Ramadan and everyday meals. Fattoush is a staple on the iftar table during Ramadan, but it’s just as delicious served alongside grilled chicken, rice dishes, or weeknight dinners.
- Very versatile. Fattoush salad can easily become a complete meal with the addition of protein. While it’s traditionally served as a side, adding grilled chicken, shrimp, steak, salmon, or even chickpeas turns this salad into a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Fattoush Salad FAQ
What is fattoush? Fattoush is a traditional Middle Eastern salad made with crisp lettuce, fresh vegetables, herbs, and toasted pita bread for crunch — tossed in a lemony, sumac dressing.
Can I make fattoush salad ahead of time? It’s best to prepare the vegetables and dressing ahead, but add pita chips right before serving so they stay crunchy.
How long does fattoush salad last in the refrigerator?
Fattoush is best eaten fresh. If stored, keep dressing and pita chips separate and eat within 1 day.
Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, steak, or chickpeas are great additions if you want a heartier salad.
What to serve with Fattoush Salad
Anything really! Fattoush salad pairs well with many main dishes because of its fresh, tangy flavor and crunchy texture. Try it with:
- Rice dishes
- Grilled chicken, beef or seafood
- Hearty soups
Fattoush Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Make the dressing: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, sumac, and dried mint until everything is combined and the oil and honey form a slightly creamy consistency.
- Assemble the salad: Add the chopped lettuce to a large serving bowl and toss with the dressing.
- Add the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, red bell pepper on top of the lettuce and sprinkle a little more sumac and dried mint.
- Right before serving, top with pita chips.
