Fattoush Salad Recipe

This Fattoush Salad Recipe is a beloved classic throughout the Middle East—fresh, tangy, and bursting with flavor. What sets it apart is the perfect crunch from lightly fried pita chips and a vibrant dressing made with pomegranate molasses. The result? A sweet, savory, and citrusy balance that elevates every bite.

I first made this fattoush salad in my café and served it as a hearty main entrée with grilled, lightly charred chicken. It quickly became a customer favorite and the top-selling salad on the menu—and for good reason!

What is Fattoush? 

Fattoush is a classic Middle Eastern salad made with fresh veggies, herbs, and crispy pieces of fried pita bread. It’s believed to have originated in northern Lebanon as a clever way to use up day-old bread. The name comes from the Arabic word fatteh, meaning “crumbs.” Today, it’s a beloved dish across the region—tangy, crunchy, and full of flavor.

Fattoush Salad Recipe Ingredients

• Romaine Lettuce: This is the base for most Fattoush salads. Romaine’s crispy leaves add volume, making the salad hearty while providing a subtle bitterness that contrasts beautifully with other ingredients.
• Parsley: This herb isn’t just for garnish! Finely chopped parsley infuses the salad with a vibrant freshness, making every bite more invigorating.
• Tomatoes: While many opt for larger varieties like Roma or vine tomatoes, don’t avoid cherry or grape tomatoes. Their juicy burst adds both flavor and texture to the Fattoush.
• Cucumbers: A staple in Middle Eastern salads. While any variety does the trick, Persian cucumbers, with their mild flavor and crunchy texture, are a favored choice for this dish.
• Green Onions: They’re milder than their red, white, or yellow counterparts, ensuring the dressing remains the star. Their subtle sweetness adds depth without overpowering the mix.
• Radishes: Not just for color! Radishes contribute a hint of spice and zest. Their crisp nature ensures every mouthful of Fattoush feels fresh and lively.
• Purslane: Although not everyone is familiar with purslane, it’s a traditional Fattoush ingredient. Its slightly lemony taste and succulent texture make it a delightful addition. If you can’t find a purslane, you can skip it, but it’s worth seeking out for an authentic touch.
• Toasted Pita: This is what sets Fattoush apart! The crunchy, toasted pieces of pita bread absorb the dressing, offering a satisfying contrast in texture while enhancing the salad’s overall flavor profile.

Pomegranate Molasses in Fattoush Dressing

Pomegranate molasses are what set Fattoush dressing apart. This sweet and tangy syrupy concoction is a flavor powerhouse in Middle Eastern cuisine. Derived from reduced pomegranate juice, it lends a unique depth to dishes. This isn’t actual molasses but a thickened pomegranate reduction for the uninitiated. Its vibrant flavor profile makes it a must-have for Fattoush. Finding it is easy — check Amazon or a local Middle Eastern market. Given its potent taste, a little goes a long way. Whether in salads or stews, pomegranate molasses turns any dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

Fattoush Salad Tips

• Optimal Pita Crunch: Day-old pita bread, slightly dry, is perfect for quick pan-frying. Drizzle with olive oil and pan-fry until golden and crispy.
• Sumac Flavor Boost: Traditionally, toss toasted bread with sumac before adding it to the salad for an extra flavor.
• Healthier Chip Option: Try a baked pita chips recipe for a healthier twist. Reserve a tablespoon of dressing, spread it on the chips, and bake until brown and crispy.
• Last-Minute Crunch: Toss pita chips into the salad just before serving to maintain their delightful crunch with every bite.
• Cucumber Choice: Opt for Persian cucumbers; they have fewer seeds and less water, enhancing the overall texture of the salad.
•  Romaine hearts offer a perfect combination of crunchiness and tenderness compared to the outer leaves of romaine lettuce.

Pairings for Fattoush Salad

Fattoush is versatile and pairs well with many dishes. For a heartier meal, top it with grilled chicken breast. It’s also a fantastic accompaniment to dishes like kofta kebabs or Lebanese mujadara. For family gatherings, serve it alongside a whole chicken seasoned with za’atar. Whether as a main or a side, Fattoush always shines.