Loaded Fattoush Salad Recipe

Fattoush is a vibrant, flavorful Middle Eastern salad that combines fresh vegetables with crunchy pita chips, all tossed in a zesty dressing. This Loaded Fattoush Salad takes the traditional recipe up a notch with the addition of creamy feta cheese, hearty chickpeas, and fragrant mint leaves. With its burst of textures and flavors, it’s the perfect dish for a light lunch, a side salad, or even a refreshing addition to your dinner table. The crispy pita chips provide a satisfying crunch, while the tangy pomegranate molasses and sumac dressing ties everything together beautifully.

Fattoush is incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand. It’s a healthy, nutrient-packed dish that incorporates a variety of fresh vegetables, making it both refreshing and filling. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it as a solo meal, this loaded version of fattoush will leave you craving more with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Loaded Fattoush Salad is a true celebration of Mediterranean flavors. The combination of crisp veggies, crunchy pita bread, and the bold sumac-spiced dressing creates a satisfying and refreshing dish. The addition of chickpeas provides protein, while feta adds a creamy element to balance the tanginess of the dressing. Fresh mint leaves add a burst of herbal fragrance, and the pomegranate molasses lends a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the citrusy lemon juice. This salad is as flavorful as it is nutritious, making it a fantastic choice for a light, yet satisfying meal. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be customized to your taste.

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Ingredients

• Extra virgin olive oil
• Pita bread, cut into pieces
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Sumac
• Pomegranate molasses
• Salt
• Garlic, grated
• English cucumber, peeled and sliced
• Cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• Cooked chickpeas
• Radish, thinly sliced
• Red onion, thinly sliced
• Green or red leaf lettuce, washed and chopped
• Feta cheese, crumbled
• Mint leaves, torn

Variations

While this Loaded Fattoush Salad is delicious as-is, there are several ways you can customize it to suit your tastes:

• Swap the Lettuce: Feel free to use other greens like arugula, spinach, or mixed greens if you prefer.
• Add More Protein: For an extra protein boost, you can add grilled chicken, lamb, or even tofu.
• Make it Vegan: Omit the feta cheese to make this salad vegan. You can substitute the feta with a vegan cheese or simply add more chickpeas for protein.
• Add Other Vegetables: You can include other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or olives for additional texture and flavor.
• Adjust the Dressing: If you like a tangier dressing, add more lemon juice. For a sweeter touch, increase the pomegranate molasses.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pita Chips

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the pita bread pieces and toast them until they are golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even crisping. Once toasted, remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, sumac, pomegranate molasses, salt, and grated garlic. Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more lemon juice or salt to your preference.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumber, halved tomatoes, cooked chickpeas, radish slices, and red onion. Toss the vegetables to evenly distribute them.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Add the chopped lettuce to the vegetable mixture and toss gently to combine. Then, pour the dressing over the salad and toss again to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Add Garnishes

Top the salad with the crumbled feta cheese, toasted pita chips, and torn mint leaves. Garnish with a sprinkle of sumac for extra flavor and color.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately to enjoy the crispiness of the pita chips and the freshness of the vegetables. If you prefer, you can chill the salad for 30 minutes before serving, but the pita chips may soften a bit.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Make the Pita Chips Ahead: If you’re short on time, you can prepare the pita chips ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container and add them to the salad just before serving.
• Add the Dressing Just Before Serving: To keep the pita chips crunchy, it’s best to add the dressing right before serving. If you dress the salad too early, the chips may become soggy.
• Adjust the Amount of Sumac: Sumac has a tangy, lemony flavor, so feel free to adjust the amount based on your taste preferences. It’s a key ingredient, so don’t be afraid to use a generous amount for that extra zing.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh mint is essential in this salad, so don’t skip it. You can also try adding a little parsley or cilantro for variety.
• Customize with More Protein: If you want a heartier salad, try adding grilled chicken, lamb, or chickpea patties for a more filling meal.

How to Serve

This Loaded Fattoush Salad makes a great main dish for a light lunch or dinner. Serve it alongside grilled meats like chicken, lamb, or beef for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal. It also pairs wonderfully with falafel, hummus, or tabbouleh for a delicious mezze spread. If you’re hosting a gathering or barbecue, this salad can be served as a refreshing side dish to balance out rich and savory dishes. It’s perfect for warm weather and is sure to impress your guests with its fresh, vibrant flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

While this salad is best enjoyed immediately, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The vegetables will stay fresh, but the pita chips will lose their crunch. If you plan to store the salad, it’s best to keep the pita chips separate and add them just before serving.

Freezing

Fattoush salad does not freeze well due to the fresh vegetables and crispy pita chips, so it’s best to make it fresh and enjoy it immediately.

Reheating

Since this salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature, there’s no need to reheat it. If you have leftovers, simply enjoy them straight from the fridge.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pita chips?

Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use store-bought pita chips, though homemade ones will add extra flavor and texture to the salad.

2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the vegetables and dressing in advance, but it’s best to add the dressing and pita chips just before serving to maintain their freshness and crunch.

3. Can I make this salad without feta cheese?

Yes, you can omit the feta cheese for a dairy-free or vegan version. You can also use a vegan cheese alternative if desired.

4. Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, olives, or even carrots for more variety and color.

5. Can I use store-bought sumac?

Yes, store-bought sumac works perfectly. It’s available in Middle Eastern grocery stores or online and adds a distinct tangy flavor to the salad.

6. Can I substitute pomegranate molasses with something else?

If you don’t have pomegranate molasses, you can substitute it with a small amount of honey or balsamic vinegar, though it won’t replicate the exact flavor.

7. Can I use a different type of bread instead of pita?

While pita is traditional, you can use any flatbread or even crusty bread as a substitute.

8. How can I make the salad spicier?

To add some heat, consider tossing in a sliced chili pepper or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.

9. Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, simply omit the feta cheese and use a plant-based yogurt or tahini dressing if desired.

10. Can I make this salad without chickpeas?

Yes, you can omit the chickpeas or replace them with other beans like black beans or kidney beans, or you can simply add more vegetables.

Conclusion

This Loaded Fattoush Salad is a perfect blend of fresh vegetables, crispy pita chips, and a tangy, flavorful dressing. The addition of feta, chickpeas, and mint elevates the traditional recipe, making it a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or as a refreshing side, this salad will quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy the burst of vibrant flavors and textures in every bite!

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