Description
Panzanella Salad is the perfect summer dish, bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant colors. This classic Italian salad combines juicy heirloom tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and aromatic basil with rustic bread soaked in a tangy balsamic dressing. Ideal for picnics or light lunches, Panzanella Salad is quick to prepare and easily customizable, making it a delightful addition to any meal or gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups ripe heirloom tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups English cucumbers, diced
- 1 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 4 cups stale rustic country bread, torn into pieces
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp aged balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all fresh ingredients and chop the tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion.
- In a large bowl, combine chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and torn bread.
- Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the mixture and toss gently to coat.
- Let the salad sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Just before serving, add fresh basil leaves and lightly toss again.
- Serve on a platter or in individual bowls; enjoy immediately!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups (230g)
- Calories: 245
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Use day-old bread for the best texture; it absorbs dressing without getting soggy. Feel free to customize with seasonal veggies like bell peppers or olives for added flavor.