Fattoush (Lebanese Bread Salad)

Fattoush is a vibrant and refreshing Lebanese bread salad that bursts with Mediterranean flavors. The key to achieving its authentic taste is toasting the pita bread until it becomes nice and crisp. This versatile salad can be enjoyed on its own or paired with other dishes, such as Lentils, Moroccan Style, for a complete meal. Crumbled feta cheese makes a delightful garnish, adding a tangy and creamy element. Alternatively, you can toss the fattoush with greens for a lighter option.

MAKES: 4 servings

TIME: 30 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

• Four 6-inch pita breads
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint, parsley, or basil leaves
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves
• 1 large or 2 medium ripe tomatoes, cored and roughly chopped
• 1 medium cucumber, peeled and roughly chopped (seeds can be removed if desired)
• 1 red or yellow bell pepper, cored, seeded, and roughly chopped
• About 1/2 cup Vinaigrette (page 201) or extra virgin olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cut the pita bread into 8 wedges each, resembling pie slices. Place the pita pieces on a baking sheet and toast in the oven, turning once or twice, until both sides are crisp and golden, approximately 15 minutes. Allow the toasted pita to cool. (The pita croutons can be stored tightly covered for up to 2 days.)
2. In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped mint, parsley (or basil), tomatoes, cucumber, and bell pepper.
3. Add the vinaigrette or a mixture of extra virgin olive oil and lemon juice to the salad, adjusting the quantity to your taste. Toss the ingredients several times to coat them evenly.
4. Gently add the pita wedges to the salad and toss again. Be careful not to break the pita into small pieces.
5. Taste the fattoush and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the salad immediately to maintain its freshness and crispness.

VARIATIONS:

• Crouton Salad: Replace the pita with approximately 8 ounces of crusty bread (stale bread works fine) or 8 ounces of Dry-Baked Croutons. Swap the bell pepper with 1 small red onion, thinly sliced into half-rings. Reduce the amount of herbs to no more than 1/2 cup of roughly chopped fresh basil and/or parsley leaves. Add 1 minced clove of garlic to the tomato mixture. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and toast it similarly to the pita. Proceed with the rest of the recipe.
• Grilled Bread Salad: Follow the Crouton Salad variation, but grill the bread on both sides on a charcoal or gas grill over medium-high heat, positioning the rack 4 inches from the heat source. Grill the bread for approximately 3 to 5 minutes in total. Allow the bread to cool slightly, cut it into large cubes, and add it to the salad.
• Corn Bread Salad: Substitute approximately 8 ounces of cubed Corn Bread for the pita. Reduce the amount of herbs to 1/2 cup of chopped fresh cilantro leaves. Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder (or make your own using the provided reference) and 1/2 cup of chopped scallions to the tomato mixture.

USES:

• Serve Fattoush as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats or fish.
• Turn it into a satisfying meal by spreading a layer of Lentils, Moroccan Style on a plate and placing a mound of Fattoush on top. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese.
• Enjoy Fattoush as a light lunch or dinner option, either on its own or tossed with fresh greens.
• Pack it for picnics or outdoor gatherings, appreciating its vibrant colors and delightful flavors.
• Experiment with variations and additions, such as grilled chicken, chickpeas, or avocado, to create your own personalized Fattoush experience.

Fattoush, the Lebanese Bread Salad, is a tantalizing blend of textures and flavors that embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. The crispy toasted pita, combined with the fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, creates a harmonious symphony of taste and crunch. Whether served as a standalone salad, paired with Lentils, Moroccan Style, or tossed with greens, Fattoush is a true delight that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Lebanon. Embrace the versatility of this recipe by exploring different variations and additions, and savor the refreshing flavors of this beloved Middle Eastern dish.