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Panzanella Salad is a delightful Italian dish that celebrates the flavors of summer with its vibrant combination of fresh vegetables and crusty bread. This classic Tuscan salad is not only a great way to use up stale bread but also a perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, or a light lunch. With its refreshing taste and colorful presentation, Panzanella Salad is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 4 cups of day-old crusty bread, cut into cubes
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and drizzle with a little olive oil. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the bread is golden and crispy. Remove from the oven and let cool.
Step 2: Chop the Vegetables
While the bread is cooling, chop the tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooled bread cubes to the bowl with the chopped vegetables. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients. Make sure the bread is well-coated with the dressing.
Step 5: Add Fresh Herbs
Finally, add the torn basil leaves to the salad and give it one last gentle toss. Let the salad sit for about 15-30 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together.
FAQs about Panzanella Salad
What is Panzanella Salad?
Panzanella Salad is a traditional Italian salad made with stale bread and fresh vegetables, typically enjoyed in the summer months.
Can I use any type of bread for Panzanella?
Yes, you can use any crusty bread such as ciabatta, baguette, or sourdough. The key is to use bread that has a good texture and can absorb the dressing without becoming mushy.
How long can I store Panzanella Salad?
It’s best to enjoy Panzanella Salad fresh, but you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The bread may become soggy, so consider adding fresh bread if you plan to eat it later.
Can I add other ingredients to my Panzanella Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Panzanella with other ingredients like olives, mozzarella, or even grilled vegetables to suit your taste.
Is Panzanella Salad gluten-free?
Traditional Panzanella Salad is not gluten-free due to the bread. However, you can substitute gluten-free bread to make a gluten-free version of this salad.
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