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Panzanella Salad

Panzanella Salad
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Panzanella Salad is a classic Italian summer salad featuring juicy ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, crunchy toasted day-old bread, and a simple olive oil and red wine vinegar dressing. This vibrant and refreshing salad celebrates fresh seasonal produce with a balance of textures and flavors, perfect for hot weather and easy to prepare in minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 2 cups ripe, mixed colorful tomatoes, diced
  • 4 cups day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes and toasted
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, peeled and cubed (optional)

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread: Cut the day-old bread into approximately 1-inch cubes. Toast them lightly in the oven or on a skillet until golden and crisp, taking care not to burn. This creates the salad’s signature crunchy texture.
  2. Chop the Vegetables: Dice the ripe tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the red onion. If using, peel and cube the cucumber. Roughly tear the fresh basil leaves to release their fragrance.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and freshly ground pepper until well emulsified. Adjust vinegar and seasoning to taste.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently toss the toasted bread cubes with the chopped tomatoes, red onion, cucumber (if used), and basil. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss carefully, allowing the bread to absorb the flavors without becoming soggy.
  5. Let It Rest: Allow the salad to sit for 15 to 30 minutes at room temperature before serving. This resting time lets the flavors meld and softens the bread slightly for the perfect balance of texture.

Notes

  • Use stale or day-old bread for best texture and to avoid sogginess.
  • Choose juicy, ripe heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes for optimal flavor.
  • Toast the bread carefully to prevent bitterness or burning.
  • Adjust the amount of vinegar in the dressing gradually to achieve balanced acidity.
  • Serve the salad at room temperature to allow flavors to fully develop.

Nutrition

Keywords: Panzanella, Italian salad, summer salad, bread salad, tomato salad, fresh basil, summer recipe

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/panzanella-salad/