What is fattoush and where does it come from?

Fattoush is a traditional Levantine salad made with chopped fresh vegetables, herbs, and crispy pieces of pita bread , tossed in a tangy sumac vinaigrette . It’s especially popular in Lebanese cuisine and often served as part of a mezze platter.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but for the best texture: Prep and store components separately (chopped veggies, dressing, pita chips, and halloumi) Assemble just before serving to keep the pita crisp and the halloumi warm The dressing keeps for up to 5 days in the fridge

What is halloumi and how do you cook it?

Halloumi is a semi-hard, brined cheese from Cyprus known for its high melting point. It’s perfect for pan-frying or grilling , developing a golden crust while staying firm and chewy inside Slice into ¼-inch pieces and cook in a hot, lightly oiled pan for 2–3 minutes per side

Is this recipe vegetarian and gluten-free?

Vegetarian: Yes! It contains no meat and is protein-rich from halloumi Gluten-free: It can be! Just use gluten-free pita or crackers instead of regular pita chips

What can I substitute for sumac?

Sumac has a citrusy, slightly sour flavor. If you can’t find it, try: A mix of lemon zest and a tiny splash of vinegar Or add a touch of pomegranate molasses to replicate the tang

What is Lebanese fattoush with hot honey halloumi?

Lebanese fattoush with hot honey halloumi is a bold, modern take on the classic Levantine salad. It includes crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, toasted pita chips, and a tangy sumac vinaigrette, all topped with crispy pan-fried halloumi cheese drizzled in spicy-sweet hot honey. The result? A savory, tangy, and slightly sweet explosion of flavors in every bite.

Can I make fattoush ahead of time?

Absolutely—just store the components separately. Keep the chopped veggies and herbs in an airtight container, store the dressing in a jar, and cool the pita chips before sealing. Wait to fry the halloumi and assemble until just before serving to preserve the crisp texture and contrast.

What if I don’t have halloumi?

No problem! You can swap halloumi with crispy baked feta, grilled goat cheese, paneer, or even tofu. The key is to keep the outside golden and the inside soft. Just be sure to drizzle the hot honey while it’s warm for that signature flavor finish.

Is fattoush gluten-free?

Traditionally, fattoush includes pita bread, which contains gluten. To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pita , roasted chickpeas, or even crushed rice crackers as a substitute. The rest of the ingredients in this Lebanese fattoush with hot honey halloumi are naturally gluten-free.

7 Irresistible Reasons to Love This Lebanese Fattoush with Hot Honey Halloumi

Description

This Lebanese fattoush with hot honey halloumi blends crunchy pita, fresh herbs, and crispy cheese for the ultimate bold, tangy, and sweet salad.

Ingredients

Scale

1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
2 Persian cucumbers, diced
4 radishes, thinly sliced
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
½ cup fresh mint, torn
2 pita breads, torn into piece
1 tablespoon sumac
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons white vinegar or lemon juice
Sea salt & cracked pepper to taste
8 oz block halloumi cheese, sliced
2 tablespoons flour (for dusting halloumi)
2–3 tablespoons hot honey, to drizzle

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Instructions

Tear pita into bite-sized pieces.
Toss with olive oil and a sprinkle of sumac.
Toast in the oven at 375°F for 10–12 minutes until golden and crisp.
Pat dry and slice the halloumi into thick strips.
Lightly dust with flour.
Fry in a hot non-stick skillet with a splash of oil until golden brown on each side (about 2–3 minutes per side).
Remove from heat and drizzle with hot honey.
In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, radishes, mint, and parsley.
Add toasted pita chips and toss gently.
Whisk together olive oil, white vinegar, sumac, salt, and pepper.
Taste and adjust acidity or seasoning as needed.
Pour dressing over salad and toss to coat.
Top with warm hot honey halloumi.
Serve immediately and enjoy a bold, Middle Eastern salad with modern flair!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Lunch
Method: Pan-fried & Tossed
Cuisine: Lebanese / Middle Eastern