Panzanella is a traditional Italian bread salad bursting with flavors of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and tangy vinaigrette. This refreshing dish is perfect for summer, utilizing stale bread to create a satisfying meal or side that celebrates the bounty of the season.
Ingredients for Classic Panzanella
- 1 lb ripe tomatoes, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 small cucumber, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), chopped
- 2 cups stale bread (preferably crusty Italian or French bread), cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How to Make Classic Panzanella
- Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven until golden and crispy, about 10-15 minutes. Remove and let cool.
- Mixing the Vinaigrette:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make the vinaigrette.
- Assembling the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, sliced cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, and torn basil leaves.
- Adding Bread and Dressing:
- Add the toasted bread cubes to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Resting Time:
- Let the Panzanella sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve:
- Divide the Panzanella among serving plates or bowls. Optionally, garnish with additional basil leaves and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil before serving.
About the Main Ingredients
Tomatoes: Provide a juicy and sweet-tart base for the salad, essential for its refreshing flavor.
Bread: Stale bread cubes add texture and soak up the delicious flavors of the vinaigrette, transforming into a hearty component of the dish.
Basil: Adds a fragrant and herbaceous note that complements the tomatoes and bread, enhancing the overall taste of the salad.
Enjoy this classic Panzanella recipe as a light and satisfying meal that highlights the essence of Italian cuisine. Perfect for gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner, it brings together the freshness of summer ingredients in every bite.
