Classic Panzanella Salad Recipe
Panzanella offers a delightful twist on traditional bread salads, with toasted stale bread, ripe tomatoes, and fresh herbs creating a fresh yet comforting dish perfect for any meal or standalone.
Equipment
- Large Bowl To toss and combine all salad ingredients
- Knife To cut bread and chop vegetables
- Cutting board For vegetable and bread preparation
Ingredients
- 4 cups stale Italian bread or ciabatta cut into large cubes
- 3 ripe tomatoes (heirloom or vine-ripened) roughly chopped
- ½ cup red onion thinly sliced and soaked in cold water for 10 minutes, drained
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves torn or chopped
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil for dressing
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar adjust to taste
- salt to taste
- freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cut stale bread into large cubes and lightly toast or soak briefly in water to ensure the bread retains some chewiness without becoming soggy.
- Thinly slice the red onion and soak in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow sharpness, then drain thoroughly for balanced flavor.
- Roughly chop ripe tomatoes into chunky pieces to keep texture pronounced and visually rustic.
- Whisk together extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to make the dressing. Adjust acidity and seasoning to taste for a bright, balanced flavor.
- Toss the bread, tomatoes, soaked onions, fresh basil, and dressing gently in a large bowl, allowing the bread to absorb the vinaigrette evenly.
- Let the salad rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and bread to soften slightly without losing its bite.
Notes
- This recipe captures authentic Italian flavors with minimal prep, perfect for busy cooks and summer meals.
- Properly soaking or toasting bread ensures ideal texture—chewy and not soggy.
- Salad can be made a few hours ahead and rests well at room temperature.
- Add olives or capers to keep it vegan and add savory depth if desired.
- Store leftovers in airtight container after cooling to maintain freshness.
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