Gluten-Free Fattoush Salad with Sumac Dressing

Recipe by Katie Stewart and blog written by Paige Fursman, Chief Operating Officer and Acne Advisor at Katie Stewart Wellness.

If you’re on a journey to clear up your skin, chances are you’ve already made a few changes to your skincare routine, swapped out some products, and maybe even tried a new supplement or two. But what many women overlook is how much of an impact everyday foods, especially spices, can have on the health of their skin. One of our favorites? Sumac. This beautifully bold Middle Eastern spice is known for its tangy flavor and deep red hue, but it also happens to be loaded with benefits for anyone struggling with acne, inflammation, or digestive issues. And Sumac is a key ingredient in our Gluten-Free Fattouch Salad! 

What Is Sumac?

Sumac is made from the dried and ground berries of the Rhus plant. It has a citrusy, lemon-like flavor that adds a bright pop to dishes without the need for vinegar or excessive salt. Common in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, sumac has traditionally been used to flavor salads, meats, and grains but today, it’s gaining recognition for its powerful health benefits, especially when it comes to skin health and acne support.

Why Sumac Deserves a Spot in Your Spice Rack

Rich in Antioxidants

Sumac is packed with polyphenols and flavonoids that help reduce oxidative stress in the body. This is key when you’re dealing with acne, since free radical damage can lead to inflammation and worsen breakouts. Antioxidants also support collagen production and slow down signs of aging.

Natural Anti-Inflammatory

Chronic inflammation is at the root of many skin issues, including acne. Whether it’s driven by poor gut health, stress, or food sensitivities, inflammation shows up on your face as redness, swelling, and painful cystic breakouts. Sumac helps soothe internal inflammation, giving your skin a better environment to calm down and heal.

Helps Balance Blood Sugar

One of the lesser-known benefits of sumac is its role in blood sugar regulation. Balanced blood sugar means fewer spikes in insulin and other hormones that can contribute to acne. If you’re dealing with hormonal breakouts, incorporating blood sugar-balancing foods like sumac can make a noticeable difference.

Supports Gut Health

You’ve probably heard it a hundred times: the gut and skin are directly connected. Sumac contains antimicrobial properties that support a balanced microbiome, reduce harmful bacteria, and improve digestion. A well-functioning gut helps eliminate toxins efficiently and ensures you’re absorbing the nutrients your skin needs to stay clear.

The Salad Your Skin Has Been Craving

One of the easiest and tastiest ways to enjoy sumac is in our Gluten-Free Fattoush Salad with Sweet Sumac Dressing. This Mediterranean-inspired salad is light, crunchy, and packed with fresh, skin-supportive ingredients. We use chopped romaine, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, red peppers, and fresh herbs for a vibrant, nourishing mix. The sweet and tangy sumac dressing ties everything together with bold flavor and skin-loving benefits. Golden, crunchy gluten-free pita chips add the perfect finishing touch to this satisfying, skin-boosting meal. Bonus: You can whip it up in minutes!

This salad is a go-to in our acne-friendly kitchen for a reason. Every ingredient was chosen with your skin in mind. Leafy greens and herbs help detox the body. Olive oil provides healthy fats for hormonal balance. Lemon juice supports liver health. And sumac ties everything together while delivering anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and gut-loving goodness.

Build the Ultimate Acne-Friendly Mediterranean Meal

To elevate your Gluten-Free Fattoush Salad with Sweet Sumac Dressing into a full, nourishing meal, pair it with dishes that complement its fresh, zesty flavor and support your skin from the inside out. These delicious recipes from the KSW blog not only taste amazing together but also align with an anti-inflammatory, gut-loving, acne-free lifestyle.

• Mediterranean Chicken Skewers: Marinated in lemon, herbs, and garlic, these grilled chicken skewers bring bold flavor and clean protein to your plate. They balance beautifully with the bright sumac dressing and help keep hormones (and breakouts) in check.
• Greek Lemon Potatoes: These crispy, golden potatoes are roasted with lemon, garlic, and oregano for a perfect savory side. They’re satisfying, skin-friendly, and packed with anti-inflammatory goodness.
• Classic Minestrone Soup: Loaded with vegetables, beans, and herbs, this hearty soup is ideal for supporting gut health, one of the most important factors in maintaining clear skin.
  Easy Homemade Hummus: Creamy, protein-rich, and full of fiber, hummus is a great companion to Fattoush. It’s especially helpful for balancing blood sugar, which can play a huge role in hormonal breakouts.
• Mediterranean Pasta Salad: A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe features gluten-free noodles, fresh herbs, veggies, and a zesty dressing. It’s an excellent option for supporting gut health while keeping meals light and balanced.
  

Together, these dishes create a Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s not only satisfying and balanced but also deeply supportive of clear, glowing skin.

Gluten-Free Fattoush Salad with Sumac Dressing

Our Gluten-Free Fattoush Salad features sumac, a tangy, antioxidant-rich spice that supports clear skin, digestion, and reduces inflammation.

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Ingredients

For the Salad

• 2 cups romaine lettuce (chopped)
• 1 cup cucumber (diced)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1 small green onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• ½ cup fresh mint leaves (chopped)
• 2 gluten-free pita breads (cut into triangles, or use gluten-free crackers)

For the Sweet Sumac Dressing:

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tsp sumac (a tart, lemony Middle Eastern spice)
• 2 tsp maple syrup (for sweetness)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions

Make the Gluten-Free Pita Chips:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the gluten-free pita triangles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
• Bake for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crispy.
• Let them cool while you prepare the salad.

Make the Sweet Sumac Dressing:

• In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, sumac, maple syrup, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Set aside to let the flavours meld.

Assemble the Salad:

• In a large bowl, combine romaine lettuce, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, red onion, parsley, and mint.
• Pour the sumac dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
• Just before serving, add the gluten-free pita chips for maximum crunch.
• Optionally, sprinkle with extra sumac or a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of flavour.

Notes

Tips:

• Make It Heartier: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or roasted vegetables for a more filling meal.
• Meal Prep Tip: Keep the pita chips separate until serving to maintain their crunch.
• Sumac Substitute: If you don’t have sumac, use lemon zest for a similar tangy flavour.