Panzanella is a traditional Italian bread salad from Tuscany, featuring juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, red onions, and stale bread soaked in a delicious olive oil and vinegar dressing. It’s a refreshing summer dish that makes the most of simple ingredients!
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
✅ 4 cups stale ciabatta or rustic bread, cut into cubes 🥖
✅ 4 large ripe tomatoes, diced 🍅
✅ 1 small red onion, thinly sliced 🧅
✅ 1 cucumber, sliced 🥒
✅ ½ cup fresh basil leaves 🌿
✅ ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil 🛢️
✅ 2 tbsp red wine vinegar 🍷
✅ Salt & black pepper, to taste 🧂
✅ 1 garlic clove, minced (optional) 🧄
✅ ½ cup mozzarella or feta cheese (optional, for extra flavor) 🧀
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
1️⃣ Cut stale bread into cubes and place them in a large bowl.
2️⃣ If the bread is too hard, lightly sprinkle it with water to soften it slightly (but don’t soak it).
Step 2: Mix the Vegetables
3️⃣ In another bowl, combine diced tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and red onions.
4️⃣ Add minced garlic (if using) and fresh basil leaves.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
5️⃣ In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
6️⃣ Pour the dressing over the vegetables and bread.
Step 4: Toss and Let It Rest
7️⃣ Gently toss everything together so the bread absorbs the flavors.
8️⃣ Let the salad sit for 15–30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
9️⃣ Garnish with extra basil and cheese (if using).
🔟 Serve at room temperature as a side dish or light meal!
Buon Appetito! 🇮🇹
Panzanella is a perfect way to use up stale bread while enjoying a fresh, tangy, and herbaceous dish.
✨ Extra Tips:
👉 Add olives, capers, or grilled chicken for more variety! 🫒🍗