Pita Bread Salad with Olives and Feta (Fattoush)

Pita Bread Salad with Olives and Feta, also known as Fattoush, is a refreshing and delicious Middle Eastern-inspired salad that combines crispy pita bread, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful lemony vinaigrette. Traditionally, fattoush is made with leftover pita bread, cucumbers, and tomatoes, dressed with lemon juice, mint, and olive oil. To elevate this classic recipe, we have added cherry tomatoes for their consistent sweetness, romaine lettuce for a crisp crunch, and a generous amount of mint and parsley to keep the flavors fresh and bright. Crumbled feta cheese and kalamata olives add bursts of great flavor, making this salad a delightful balance of textures and tastes.

SERVES 4 TO 6

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 (8-inch) pita breads, torn into ½-inch pieces
• ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• ¼ cup fresh mint leaves
• ¼ cup fresh parsley leaves
• ¼ cup lemon juice (2 lemons)
• Salt and pepper
• 1 small head romaine lettuce (10 ounces), torn into 1-inch pieces
• 12 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, peeled, halved lengthwise, seeded, and cut into ½-inch pieces
• 3 scallions, sliced thin
• ½ cup pitted kalamata olives, sliced thin
• 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled (1 cup)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Adjust the oven rack to the middle position and preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Spread the torn pita bread evenly over a rimmed baking sheet and bake for 7 to 10 minutes, or until the pita becomes crisp but not brown. Stir the pieces halfway through baking to ensure even crispness. Allow the baked pita to cool to room temperature.
3. In a blender or mini food processor, pulse together the olive oil, mint, parsley, lemon juice, and ¼ teaspoon of salt until the herbs are finely chopped, about 20 pulses.
4. In a large bowl, toss together the cooled pita bread, dressing, romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, scallions, and kalamata olives.
5. Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top.
6. Serve and enjoy this delightful Pita Bread Salad with Olives and Feta as a refreshing side dish or a light main course.

TIPS:

• Crisp the Pita Bread: To prevent the pita bread from becoming soggy, it is essential to crisp it in the oven. This will allow the bread to hold up well to the dressing and vegetables. Be careful not to over-brown the pita; it should be crisp but not brown.
• Use Cherry Tomatoes: Opt for cherry tomatoes, as they offer consistent sweetness and juiciness year-round. Their vibrant color and flavor will enhance the overall appeal of the salad.
• Fresh Herbs are Key: The dressing’s lively flavors come from a combination of fresh mint and parsley. Be sure to use high-quality, fresh herbs for the best taste.
• Customize with Vegetables: While this recipe includes cucumber, scallions, and olives, feel free to customize the salad with your favorite vegetables. Radishes, bell peppers, or even diced avocado can be excellent additions.

This Fattoush salad is bursting with fresh flavors and textures, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal. The combination of crispy pita, juicy cherry tomatoes, tangy feta, and fragrant herbs will impress your family and guests alike. Enjoy this Mediterranean-inspired salad as a healthy and satisfying addition to your table.