Classic Italian Panzanella Salad

Ingredients

• 4 cups (400g) ripe tomatoes, diced 4 cups (400g) ripe tomatoes, diced
• 2 cups (200g) day-old crusty bread, torn into bite-sized pieces 2 cups (200g) day-old crusty bread, torn into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup (150g) cucumber, sliced 1 cup (150g) cucumber, sliced
• 1/2 cup (50g) red onion, thinly sliced 1/2 cup (50g) red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup (15g) fresh basil leaves, torn 1/2 cup (15g) fresh basil leaves, torn
• 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons (30ml) balsamic vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 8g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, torn bread, cucumber slices, red onion, and torn basil leaves.
2. 2.
   In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. 3.
   Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine, ensuring the bread is well coated.
4. 4.
   Allow the salad to sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   Serve the Panzanella salad chilled or at room temperature.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Bread — Using day-old crusty bread is essential for the texture of the Panzanella salad. If you don't have day-old bread, you can lightly toast fresh bread in the oven to achieve a similar texture.

Tips & Tricks

• To add an extra layer of flavor, you can add some olives or capers to the salad.
• For a twist, try grilling the bread before tearing it into pieces for a smoky flavor.
• If you prefer a softer texture, you can let the salad sit for a longer period to allow the bread to fully soak up the dressing.

Serving advice

Serve the Panzanella salad as a refreshing appetizer or as a light main course. It pairs well with grilled meats or seafood.

Presentation advice

Arrange the salad on a large platter, allowing the vibrant colors of the tomatoes, cucumbers, and basil to shine through. Garnish with a few extra torn basil leaves for an added touch of freshness.