If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful salad, Panzanella is a must-try! This classic Italian bread salad originates from Tuscany, where home cooks transform stale bread into a delicious dish by tossing it with juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, olive oil, and a tangy vinaigrette.
Panzanella is refreshing, vibrant, and incredibly easy to prepare. It makes a perfect side dish for grilled meats, seafood, or a light summer meal on its own.
Best of all, you only need a handful of simple ingredients to make this dish come to life!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
✔️ Uses Simple Ingredients: No fancy ingredients — just fresh, wholesome food.
✔️ Great for Leftovers: Perfect for using up stale bread.
✔️ Bursting with Fresh Flavors: A true taste of summer!
✔️ Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or protein for variety.
Traditional Panzanella Salad Ingredients
To make an authentic Panzanella salad, you need just a few basic, high-quality ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups stale bread (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 4 large ripe tomatoes (chopped)
- ½ red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 small cucumber (sliced into half-moons)
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves (torn)
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Fresh mozzarella (optional)
How to Make Panzanella Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Start by cutting your stale bread into bite-sized cubes. If your bread is too fresh, toast it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes until slightly crispy. This prevents the bread from getting too soggy when mixed with the dressing.
Step 2: Chop the Vegetables
While the bread is toasting, chop the tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, and any other vegetables you’re using. Fresh, ripe tomatoes are key to a flavorful Panzanella salad, so choose the best quality tomatoes you can find.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano. This simple vinaigrette enhances the salad with a bold, tangy flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread, chopped vegetables, and fresh basil. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together, ensuring the bread soaks up the flavors.
Step 5: Let it Rest
For the best flavor, let the Panzanella salad sit for 15–20 minutes before serving. This allows the bread to absorb the juices and flavors, making each bite even more delicious.
Tips for the Best Panzanella Salad
⭐ Use High-Quality Ingredients: Since this salad is simple, fresh ingredients make a big difference. Use ripe, juicy tomatoes and good-quality olive oil.
⭐ Let the Salad Rest: Giving the salad time to sit helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
⭐ Don’t Over-Soak the Bread: The bread should be soft but not mushy. If you like a crispier texture, serve the salad immediately after tossing.
⭐ Customize to Your Taste: Feel free to add ingredients like mozzarella, bell peppers, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra depth.
What to Serve with Panzanella Salad
This classic Italian salad pairs well with many dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Grilled meats: Serve with grilled chicken, steak, or seafood.
- Italian dishes: Pair with pasta, risotto, or antipasto platters.
- Light summer meals: Enjoy with a glass of white wine and fresh fruit.
- Soup & Salad Combo: Serve alongside a bowl of minestrone or tomato soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Panzanella Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can chop the vegetables and make the dressing in advance. However, don’t mix the bread with the salad until just before serving to prevent it from becoming too soggy.
What Kind of Bread Works Best?
Traditional Tuscan bread or a rustic sourdough works best. Any crusty, day-old bread will do!
How Long Does Panzanella Salad Last?
This salad is best eaten fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The bread will soften over time, so if you prefer a crunchier texture, add extra toasted bread before serving.
Can I Make It Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free bread and toast it for a similar texture.
Final Thoughts
Panzanella salad is the ultimate summer dish — light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re making it as a side dish for a barbecue or a light meal on a hot day, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to reduce food waste by repurposing stale bread into something delicious.
So, grab some ripe tomatoes, a loaf of crusty bread, and make this easy, traditional Panzanella salad today! 🍅🥖✨
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