Authentic Fattoush Salad Recipe (Fresh Lebanese Bread Salad)
Fattoush Salad is a vibrant Middle Eastern salad made with crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, crunchy toasted pita bread, and a bright lemon-sumac dressing. Originating in Lebanon, this refreshing salad is known for its bold flavors, colorful ingredients, and satisfying crunch.
Perfect as a side dish, light lunch, or accompaniment to grilled meats, Fattoush is one of the most popular salads throughout the Middle East.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh and healthy
Packed with vegetables
Crunchy toasted pita chips
Bright lemon dressing
Easy to make
Perfect summer salad
Naturally vegetarian
Ready in 20 minutes
The Origins of Fattoush Salad
Fattoush originated in Lebanon and was traditionally created as a way to use leftover pita bread. Farmers would combine seasonal vegetables, herbs, and pieces of toasted or fried pita with a simple dressing made from olive oil, lemon juice, and sumac. Today, Fattoush is enjoyed throughout the Middle East and is considered one of the region's most iconic salads.
Prep Time
20 minutes
Total Time
20 minutes
Servings
6 servings
Ingredients
For the Salad
2 romaine lettuce hearts, chopped
2 cups tomatoes, diced
1 cucumber, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
5 radishes, thinly sliced
½ red onion, thinly sliced
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
¼ cup fresh mint, chopped
For the Pita Chips
2 pita breads
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
For the Dressing
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon sumac
1 garlic clove, minced
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Pita Chips
Preheat oven to 375°F.
Cut pita bread into bite-sized pieces.
Toss with olive oil and salt.
Spread onto a baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes until golden and crisp.
Allow to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
In a large bowl combine:
Romaine lettuce
Tomatoes
Cucumber
Bell pepper
Radishes
Red onion
Parsley
Mint
Toss gently.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl whisk together:
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Sumac
Garlic
Salt
Pepper
Whisk until combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Pour dressing over the vegetables.
Toss until evenly coated.
Add the pita chips just before serving.
Step 5: Serve
Serve immediately while the pita remains crisp.
What Is Sumac?
Sumac is a tangy Middle Eastern spice made from dried berries. It adds a bright citrus flavor that is essential to authentic Fattoush Salad.
If you can't find sumac, substitute additional lemon juice, though the flavor won't be exactly the same.
Expert Tips
Add pita chips right before serving.
Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
Fresh mint is essential for authentic taste.
Chill the vegetables before assembling.
Use freshly squeezed lemon juice.
What To Serve With Fattoush Salad
Fattoush pairs perfectly with:
Chicken Shawarma
Beef Kebabs
Grilled Chicken
Falafel
Hummus
Baba Ganoush
Gyros
Lamb Chops
Variations
Chickpea Fattoush
Add one can of drained chickpeas for extra protein.
Chicken Fattoush
Top with grilled chicken breast.
Mediterranean Fattoush
Add feta cheese and Kalamata olives.
Storage
Store the salad and pita chips separately.
Salad keeps for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
Pita chips can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Fattoush healthy?
Yes. It's packed with fresh vegetables, herbs, and heart-healthy olive oil.
Can I make Fattoush ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare all components separately and assemble before serving.
What is the difference between Fattoush and Tabbouleh?
Fattoush contains lettuce, vegetables, and pita chips, while Tabbouleh is primarily made with parsley, bulgur, tomatoes, and mint.
Can I use store-bought pita chips?
Yes, but homemade pita chips provide the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 220
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 4g
Drink Pairings
Mint Lemonade
Cucumber Water
Sparkling Lemon Water
Iced Green Tea
Pomegranate Juice
Horchata
More Salad Recipes You'll Love
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
Final Thoughts
This Authentic Fattoush Salad is fresh, colorful, and loaded with bright Mediterranean flavors. With crisp vegetables, crunchy pita chips, and a zesty lemon-sumac dressing, it's an easy side dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your table.