Panzanella Salad Recipe
Panzanella salad is a simple Italian dish that brings together fresh ingredients with bold flavors. It uses leftover bread mixed with ripe tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, red onions, and fresh basil. All of these are tossed in a tangy dressing that makes the salad bright and refreshing. This recipe is a great way to use up bread while enjoying a tasty and colorful meal.
What makes this salad special is how easy it is to prepare and how well the flavors come together. The toasted bread soaks up the dressing but still holds some crunch. Juicy tomatoes and fresh vegetables add brightness to every bite. It works well as a light lunch or a side dish with grilled meat or fish. This dish is perfect for anyone who enjoys simple and fresh Mediterranean flavors.
Why You Need This Recipe
This Panzanella salad is a perfect dish for warm days when you want something light but filling. It uses simple ingredients that come together quickly, making it an easy option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The combination of fresh vegetables and soaked bread creates a satisfying mix of flavors and textures.
You will also appreciate how this salad helps reduce food waste by using day-old bread. It is versatile and can be served as a side or a main dish. Whether you want a healthy meal or a colorful addition to your table, this recipe offers a fresh and delicious solution without much effort.
Ingredients
This Panzanella salad uses simple ingredients that come together to create a fresh and flavorful dish everyone will enjoy.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Day-old bread | 3 cups, cubed | 360 |
| Ripe tomatoes | 2 cups, chopped | 40 |
| Cucumber | 1 cup, diced | 16 |
| Red onion | 1/4 cup, thinly sliced | 15 |
| Fresh basil | 1/4 cup, chopped | 2 |
| Olive oil | 3 tablespoons | 360 |
| Red wine vinegar | 2 tablespoons | 6 |
| Garlic | 1 clove, minced | 4 |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | 0 |
Estimated Total Calories: 803
How to Prepare
Begin by toasting the cubed day old bread in the oven or on a skillet until it is golden and slightly crispy. This helps the bread hold its shape when mixed with the dressing. While the bread is cooling, chop the tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and thinly slice the red onion. Chop the fresh basil as well.
In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread with the vegetables and basil. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Let the salad sit for about 20 minutes before serving so the flavors can blend and the bread can soak up the dressing.
Pro Tips
Use day old or slightly stale bread for the best texture. Fresh bread can become too soft and soggy when mixed with the dressing. Toasting the bread adds extra crunch and helps it hold up better.
Make sure to let the salad rest for at least 20 minutes before serving. This allows the bread to soak up the dressing and the flavors to blend nicely. If you want to prepare it ahead, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to keep everything fresh. Adding a pinch of salt to the tomatoes before mixing can also help bring out their natural sweetness.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
Panzanella salad goes well with grilled chicken, fish, or steak, making it a great side dish for any meal. It also pairs nicely with simple pasta dishes or roasted vegetables for a complete vegetarian option. For gatherings, serve it alongside a cheese board or fresh bread to create a balanced spread.
To add extra flavor and texture, try topping the salad with toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds. Fresh mozzarella or burrata cheese makes a creamy addition. You can also drizzle a little balsamic glaze on top for a touch of sweetness that complements the tangy dressing. These additions bring more depth and make the salad even more satisfying.
Conclusion
Panzanella salad is a delicious way to enjoy fresh summer flavors while making good use of leftover bread. Its mix of crisp vegetables, fragrant basil, and tangy dressing creates a dish that is both simple and full of character. Whether you serve it as a light lunch or a side for grilled dishes, this salad always brings brightness to the table.
Easy to prepare and highly versatile, this recipe can be adjusted to fit your taste or what you have on hand. Giving it time to rest before serving allows the flavors to blend perfectly. Try this Panzanella salad and discover a fresh, flavorful dish that quickly becomes a favorite.
