Panzanella is a traditional Italian salad made primarily from stale bread and ripe tomatoes. This rustic dish is often enjoyed during the summer months when tomatoes are at their peak of flavor. The salad is also enriched with ingredients like onions, cucumbers, and fresh basil, all dressed in a vibrant vinaigrette. Panzanella is not only a delicious way to use up leftover bread but also a refreshing addition to any meal, especially as a side dish for barbecues and picnics.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups stale bread, cut into cubes (typically ciabatta or sourdough)
- 3 large ripe tomatoes, cut into chunks
- 1 cucumber, peeled and sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- A handful of fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 small clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Appliances and Special Utensils:
- Oven or toaster (optional, for toasting bread)
- Large mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Salad serving bowl
Recipe:
- Prepare the Bread:
- If your bread isn’t stale, toast the bread cubes in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until lightly crispy. This will help them absorb the dressing without becoming too soggy.
- Make the Vinaigrette:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Combine the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, tomato chunks, sliced cucumber, sliced red onion, and torn basil leaves.
- Dress the Salad:
- Pour the vinaigrette over the salad ingredients and toss well to combine. Make sure the bread cubes are well coated in the dressing to soften them slightly and enhance their flavor.
- Let It Marinate:
- Allow the salad to sit for about 30 minutes before serving so the bread can absorb the flavors of the dressing and the vegetables. This resting time is crucial for the best texture and taste.
- Serve:
- Transfer the salad to a salad serving bowl and garnish with additional basil leaves if desired. Serve as a refreshing side dish or a light main course.
This Panzanella recipe highlights the simplicity and flavor of traditional Italian cooking, making it a perfect dish for warm weather gatherings.