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Fattoush

Serves 4 Salad vegetarian, Salads

Fattoush

Fattoush is a classic Levantine bread salad, a staple on Mediterranean tables where olive oil and lemon are always within reach. Originating from the heart of the Levant, this dish transforms humble ingredients into a vibrant celebration of fresh produce and day-old pita. Traditionally enjoyed as a refreshing summer meal, it showcases the effortless elegance of Mediterranean home cooking.

A well-made Fattoush delivers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The crisp romaine and juicy tomatoes are punctuated by the tangy brightness of sumac and lemon juice, while toasted pita adds a satisfying crunch. Each bite is a reminder of the sea's saltiness and the garden's bounty, making it an ideal accompaniment to any Mediterranean spread.

Ingredients

  • 3tomatoes
  • 1cucumber
  • 2 cupsromaine
  • 2pitas — toasted
  • 80 mlextra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsplemon juice
  • 1 tspsumac
  • to tastefine sea salt

Method

  1. Start by preparing the fresh components. Dice the 3 tomatoes into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large salad bowl. Peel the cucumber if desired, then slice it into thin rounds or half-moons, adding them to the bowl with the tomatoes. Tear the romaine into small, manageable pieces and add to the bowl, ensuring the greens are crisp and fresh.
  2. Prepare the pita bread by cutting the 2 pitas into small squares or triangles. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small drizzle of the 80 ml extra virgin olive oil. Toast the pita pieces in the skillet until they are golden and crisp, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and let them cool slightly before adding to the salad.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining extra virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp sumac, and a pinch of fine sea salt to taste. The mixture should be well combined and slightly emulsified, with a bright, tangy aroma from the lemon and sumac.
  4. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Use a large spoon or salad tongs to gently toss everything together. Be careful to mix thoroughly while keeping the tomato and cucumber pieces intact and the romaine leaves unbruised.
  5. Once the salad is evenly dressed, add the toasted pita pieces to the bowl. Give the salad one final gentle toss to distribute the pita throughout. The salad should look vibrant and colorful, with the pita adding a crunchy texture.
  6. Serve the Fattoush immediately, allowing the flavors to be at their freshest. The salad should be a harmonious blend of crisp vegetables, tangy dressing, and crunchy pita, embodying the essence of a Mediterranean table.