Summer Fatoush Salad

Summer Fatoush Salad Recipe from Lebanon with Red and Yellow Bell Peppers, Cucumbers, Tomatoes, and More

Region / culture: Lebanon | Servings: 4

Introduction

Summer Fatoush Salad is a refreshing and vibrant Middle Eastern salad that is perfect for hot summer days. This salad is packed with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy dressing that will leave your taste buds satisfied.

History

Fatoush is a traditional Lebanese salad that dates back centuries. It was originally created as a way to use up stale bread by soaking it in water and mixing it with fresh vegetables and herbs. Over time, the recipe has evolved to include a variety of ingredients such as bell peppers, cucumbers, and tomatoes.

Ingredients

1 cup red bell peppers, sliced into strips
1 cup yellow bell peppers, sliced into strips
1 cup peeled cucumbers, thinly sliced
4 vine ripened tomatoes, cut into 0.25 inch wedges
0.5 cup red onions, thinly sliced
3 tbsp finely chopped mint
3 tbsp finely chopped parsley
3 tbsp finely chopped cilantro
2 garlic cloves, crushed
2 tsp high quality olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
salt
freshly ground black pepper
2 pita breads, to serve

How to prepare

Place the bell peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, scallions, mint, parsley, and cilantro in a large bowl.
In a separate bowl, combine the garlic with the olive oil and lemon juice.
Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss lightly to mix.
Toast the pita breads in a toaster until crisp and serve alongside (or crumbled on top) of the salad.

Variations

Add grilled shrimp or chicken for a protein boost.
Swap out the bell peppers for roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor.
Add feta cheese for a creamy and tangy element.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use high quality olive oil for the dressing to enhance the flavors of the salad.

- Toasting the pita bread adds a nice crunch to the salad. You can also crumble the bread on top for added texture.

- For a more authentic flavor, use fresh herbs like mint, parsley, and cilantro.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Summer Fatoush Salad as a light and refreshing side dish with grilled chicken or fish. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch or dinner.

Cooking Techniques

Make sure to chop the vegetables and herbs finely for a uniform texture.

- Toss the salad lightly to avoid crushing the vegetables.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any color bell peppers you have on hand.

- Substitute lemon juice with red wine vinegar for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just add the dressing and toasted pita bread right before serving to keep them crisp.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Summer Fatoush Salad in a large bowl or on a platter for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with extra herbs for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this salad with a glass of crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea for a perfect summer meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The pita bread may lose its crunchiness, so you can toast it again before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 150 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 25g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 5g per serving

Saturated Fat: 1g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 3g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 60% of daily value per serving

Vitamin A: 20% of daily value per serving

Iron: 10% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains gluten from the pita bread

Summary

This Summer Fatoush Salad is a healthy and nutritious dish that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for those looking to eat a balanced diet.

Summary

Summer Fatoush Salad is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for summer gatherings or as a light meal. Packed with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy dressing, this salad is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Summer Fatoush Salad. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my friend Margaret's house for a backyard barbecue. As we were chatting and sipping on lemonade, Margaret's mother brought out a big bowl of colorful salad that immediately caught my eye.

"What is this delicious looking salad?" I asked, my mouth watering at the sight of the fresh vegetables and herbs.

"It's called Fatoush Salad," Margaret's mother replied with a smile. "It's a traditional Middle Eastern salad that's perfect for hot summer days."

I was intrigued and asked her for the recipe. Margaret's mother, a warm and welcoming woman with a passion for cooking, was more than happy to share her secrets with me. As she walked me through the ingredients and steps, I could see the love and care she put into every aspect of the salad.

The key to a good Fatoush Salad, she explained, is the freshness of the ingredients. She used a mix of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, crunchy radishes, and fragrant herbs like mint and parsley. The dressing was a simple yet flavorful combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and sumac, a spice that added a tangy and slightly sour flavor to the salad.

As I watched Margaret's mother toss the ingredients together in a big bowl, I couldn't wait to try the finished product. When she finally served the salad, I took my first bite and was instantly transported to a garden filled with sunshine and laughter. The flavors burst in my mouth, each bite a symphony of textures and tastes that danced on my taste buds.

From that moment on, I knew I had to learn how to make this delicious salad myself. I asked Margaret's mother for a copy of the recipe, and she happily obliged. I practiced making the Fatoush Salad over and over again, tweaking the ingredients and proportions until I found the perfect balance of flavors.

Over the years, I have made the Summer Fatoush Salad for countless family gatherings, potlucks, and picnics. Each time I serve it, I am reminded of that hot summer day at Margaret's house and the generosity of her mother in sharing her recipe with me.

I have come to realize that recipes are more than just a list of ingredients and instructions. They are a connection to our past, a way to preserve memories and traditions for future generations. As I continue to cook and share my recipes with my loved ones, I am passing down a piece of myself and my experiences in the kitchen.

So the next time you taste my Summer Fatoush Salad, know that it is not just a dish made of vegetables and herbs. It is a story, a memory, a labor of love that I am proud to share with you. Enjoy every bite, and may it bring you as much joy and satisfaction as it has brought me over the years. Bon appétit!