Best Panzanella Salad Recipe
Panzanella salad is a classic Italian dish that celebrates fresh summer ingredients. With juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and toasted bread cubes, it is both hearty and refreshing. The salad is tossed with a light dressing that soaks into the bread, creating an irresistible texture.
This recipe is simple to make and perfect for warm days when you crave something fresh. It works well as a side for grilled meats or as a light main course. Every bite offers a balance of crunch, juiciness, and tangy dressing.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Day old bread cubes | 4 cups | 480 |
| Cherry tomatoes | 2 cups halved | 60 |
| Cucumber (sliced) | 1 medium | 45 |
| Red onion (sliced) | ½ medium | 25 |
| Olive oil | 4 tbsp | 480 |
| Red wine vinegar | 2 tbsp | 10 |
| Fresh basil leaves | ½ cup | 5 |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | 0 |
Step by Step Preparation
Toast the bread
Cut bread into cubes, drizzle with olive oil, and toast until golden and crisp.
Prepare the vegetables
Slice cucumbers, onions, and halve the tomatoes into bite sized pieces.
Make the dressing
Whisk olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
Combine ingredients
In a large bowl, mix toasted bread, vegetables, and fresh basil.
Toss with dressing
Pour dressing over the salad and toss until bread soaks up the flavors.
Let it rest
Allow salad to sit for 15 minutes so the bread absorbs juices before serving.
Tips for customizing the recipe
You can add mozzarella balls or feta cheese for extra richness. Grilled chicken or shrimp makes it more filling as a main dish. For deeper flavor, include roasted peppers or olives.
Experiment with different bread types like sourdough or ciabatta for variety. Add fresh herbs such as parsley or oregano for a fragrant touch. A sprinkle of capers gives a sharp, tangy contrast.
Nutritional Information
One serving of Panzanella salad contains around 300 to 350 calories. It is rich in healthy fats from olive oil and full of vitamins from fresh vegetables. The bread makes it more satisfying than a regular salad.
Using whole grain bread adds fiber and extra nutrition. You can also reduce the amount of oil to make it lighter. This salad is naturally vegetarian and can be adapted to vegan diets easily.
Serving Suggestion
Serve the salad slightly chilled or at room temperature for the best taste. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or pasta dishes. A glass of white wine complements the fresh and tangy flavors.
For gatherings, prepare it in a large serving bowl and garnish with extra basil leaves. It also works well as a light lunch on its own. The mix of textures makes it enjoyable in every bite.
How to store and keep fresh
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The bread will continue to soak up moisture, so it may become softer. To refresh, add a few fresh bread cubes and an extra drizzle of olive oil.
Do not freeze Panzanella salad as the texture of vegetables and bread will not hold up. For best results, mix the salad just before serving. This keeps the bread crisp yet flavorful.
Conclusion
Panzanella salad is a rustic and refreshing dish that highlights simple ingredients. With juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and basil, it delivers a true taste of summer. The toasted bread and tangy dressing make it hearty and satisfying.
It is easy to prepare, customizable, and always a crowd pleaser. Serve it as a side dish or enjoy it as a light main course. Once you try it, this Italian salad will become a favorite in your kitchen.
FAQs
Q1. Can I make Panzanella with fresh bread?
Yes, but it is best to toast it first so it holds up to the dressing.
Q2. What kind of vinegar is best for Panzanella?
Red wine vinegar gives the most authentic taste, but balsamic also works.
Q3. How long should the salad rest before serving?
About 15 to 20 minutes is enough for the bread to soak up the juices.
