Introduction
Lebanese Fattoush is one of the most famous salads in Middle Eastern cuisine, especially Lebanese cuisine. It has become a staple on the Arab table during the summer season and throughout the holy month of Ramadan.
Fattoush is known for its refreshing mix of fresh vegetables, Arabic spices, and toasted or fried flatbread that gives it its signature crunch, along with the bright flavor of lemon juice and purple sumac, which is considered the secret behind its authentic Lebanese taste.
Fattoush is not just a salad; it is a complete dish that combines light flavor, high nutritional value, and a distinctive Eastern touch that is instantly recognizable.
First: What Makes Lebanese Fattoush Special?
1) Made with Carefully Chopped Fresh Vegetables
Fattoush includes a colorful variety of vegetables such as:
- Lettuce
- Cucumber
- Tomatoes
- Radishes
- Green onions
- Mint
- Parsley
This combination gives the salad its vibrant color and distinctive flavor.
2) Authentic Lebanese Sumac
Sumac is the most important element in Fattoush, adding a tangy, lemony flavor that cannot be replaced.
3) Toasted or Fried Bread
The bread gives Fattoush its perfect balance between freshness and crunch and is an essential component of the dish.
4) Lemon and Olive Oil Dressing
The simple dressing made from lemon juice, olive oil, and spices forms the foundation of Fattoush’s flavor.
Second: Ingredients for Lebanese Fattoush
Main Salad Ingredients:
- 4 cups chopped lettuce
- 2 cucumbers, sliced
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 radish, sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- ½ cup chopped parsley
- ½ cup fresh or dried mint
- ½ cup green or mixed bell pepper (optional)
- Fried or toasted Arabic bread
Dressing Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sumac
- Salt
- Black pepper
- A pinch of minced garlic (optional)
- 1 tablespoon pomegranate molasses (optional, but adds excellent flavor)
Third: Step-by-Step Preparation of Lebanese Fattoush
1) Preparing the Vegetables
- Wash all vegetables thoroughly and drain well.
- Chop the lettuce into medium-sized pieces—not too small and not too large.
- Cut tomatoes, cucumbers, and radishes into evenly sized pieces for a balanced presentation.
- Finely chop parsley, green onions, and mint.
2) Preparing the Bread
- Cut Arabic bread into small squares.
- Fry in hot oil until golden and crispy, or
- Toast in the oven for a healthier option.
3) Preparing the Fattoush Dressing
- Mix lemon juice with olive oil.
- Add sumac, salt, and black pepper.
- Add pomegranate molasses if desired for a sweet-tangy flavor.
- Whisk until fully combined.
4) Assembling the Salad
- Combine all vegetables in a large bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently until evenly coated.
- Add the toasted or fried bread just before serving to keep it crunchy.
5) Serving
- Serve Fattoush immediately after mixing to preserve freshness and crunch.
- Garnish with an extra sprinkle of sumac on top if desired.
Fourth: Secrets to Perfect Lebanese Fattoush
✔ Choose fresh, crisp vegetables
Fattoush relies entirely on vegetable quality.
✔ Use sumac in balanced amounts
To achieve the authentic Lebanese tanginess.
✔ Do not add the dressing too early
This prevents the vegetables from wilting and the bread from softening.
✔ Use fresh mint
For a refreshing and aromatic flavor.
✔ Cut vegetables evenly
For an elegant appearance and easy eating.
Fifth: Nutritional Value of Fattoush Salad
1) Low in Calories and Refreshing
Ideal for light meals and weight management.
2) Rich in Vitamins
Such as vitamins A and C from fresh vegetables.
3) Excellent Source of Fiber
Helps promote satiety and improve digestion.
4) Healthy Fats from Olive Oil
Support heart and cardiovascular health.
5) Completely Plant-Based
Suitable for fasting and vegetarians.
Conclusion
Lebanese Fattoush is not just a salad; it is an authentic Eastern dish that combines refreshing flavor with high nutritional value.
With its fresh vegetables, distinctive sumac, and crunchy bread, Fattoush remains the top choice during summer and on Ramadan tables across the Arab world. It is quick and easy to prepare, yet delivers a flavor that rivals the finest Lebanese restaurants.
