A Panzanella Salad Recipe for a Summery Lunch
A Panzanella Salad Recipe for a Summery Lunch
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy light and refreshing meals, and what better way to do that than with a salad? Today, we’re going to take you through a delicious and vibrant Panzanella salad recipe. This classic Italian dish is packed full of flavor and is sure to be a hit at your next summer picnic or lunch gathering.
Ingredients
- 4 cups of stale bread, cut into cubes (about 8 slices)
- 2 cups of ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 small cucumber, sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup of fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup of red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Toss to coat the bread evenly.
Bake the bread cubes in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until they are golden and crisp. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and torn basil leaves. Toss gently to mix the ingredients together.
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well, making sure all the ingredients are coated.
Add the toasted bread cubes to the salad and gently toss to combine. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Serve the Panzanella salad at room temperature and enjoy!
Notes/Tips
- Choose ripe and juicy tomatoes for the best flavor in your Panzanella salad. Look for varieties like heirloom or cherry tomatoes.
- If you don’t have stale bread on hand, you can still make this salad by toasting fresh bread cubes in the oven until they are crispy.
- Customize your Panzanella salad by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or olives. You can also add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a more substantial meal.
Conclusion
Panzanella salad is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, making it a perfect dish for the summer season. With its vibrant colors and refreshing taste, it’s a salad that will impress your guests and keep them coming back for more. Give this recipe a try at your next summer gathering, and let the flavors of Italy transport you to a sunny Mediterranean day.
