Traditional Salads_ When Tabbouleh Meets Fattoush

1. Traditional Salads: When Tabbouleh Meets Fattoush Two Salads, One Heritage In Lebanese cuisine, few things complement a meal like a fresh, vibrant salad. Among the most iconic are Tabbouleh and Fattoush — two dishes that, while distinct in texture and ingredients, both reflect the culinary values of freshness, balance, and seasonality. In Lebanese Newtown, these salads are not just sides; they’re essential parts of the dining experience. Tabbouleh: Parsley-Forward and Herb-Rich Tabbouleh is a finely chopped herb salad that uses parsley as its base, not lettuce. It’s mixed with tomato, onion, bulgur wheat, mint, olive oil, and lemon juice. The result is a salad that’s bright, refreshing, and tangy. Unlike many Western interpretations, true Lebanese tabbouleh uses bulgur sparingly — the parsley and herbs are the stars. It’s a celebration of greenery and is often served as part of a cold mezze selection or alongside grilled meats and breads. Fattoush: Crunchy, Zesty, and Satisfying

2. Fattoush brings a completely different texture and flavour profile. Built on a base of cos lettuce, tomato, cucumber, capsicum, onion, and radish, it’s a mixed vegetable salad tossed in a citrusy dressing made from lemon juice, olive oil, and sometimes pomegranate molasses. The highlight of fattoush is its finishing touch: crispy Lebanese bread pieces that are fried or baked and added just before serving. These give the salad a welcome crunch and a rustic appeal. It’s the perfect counterpoint to richer mains like kafta, shawarma, or grilled chicken. A Meal Within a Meal These two salads don’t just sit on the edge of the plate — they’re often the dishes people look forward to most. In a banquet setting, they serve as palate cleansers and starters. In a light meal, they can form the main component when paired with a dip like hummus or garlic labneh. Whether part of a mixed plate or a vegan banquet, tabbouleh and fattoush deliver freshness, fibre, and flavour in every bite. Popular in Lebanese Newtown In areas known for quality Lebanese dining, like Newtown, these salads are standard fare. They’re not just served to tick a box — they’re made fresh to order, using seasonal ingredients, and dressed with care. Patrons expect authenticity, and these dishes deliver just that. For locals and visitors alike, these salads represent the lighter, healthier side of Lebanese food — and are often requested alongside heavier items to create a balanced, satisfying meal. In summary, when it comes to traditional Lebanese salads, tabbouleh and fattoush are far more than just sides. They’re dishes rooted in heritage, made for sharing, and full of flavour. Whether you’re enjoying them in a banquet or ordering à la carte in Lebanese Newtown, these salads bring colour, freshness, and vibrancy to the table — every time.