Panzanella Recipe

Elevate your summer meals with a refreshing twist on the classic panzanella recipe. Made with simple, fresh ingredients that pack the best flavor, it is ideal for warm-weather gatherings, barbeques, or simply a light and refreshing meal.

As the warm sun graces our days and gardens flourish with fresh produce, it’s the perfect time to experiment with new recipes that capture the essence of summer. Seasonal produce always tastes best. Join me in making this culinary masterpiece!

There are so many summer recipes I love. However, my love for tomatoes, garlic, and cheese knows no limits! It is my kryptonite! I never get sick of it. Especially when tomatoes are in season…🤤

I love this recipe! I love making it when we have guests. Everyone always asks for the recipe. It’s so simple to make! My favorite bread is not traditional, but I think it tastes best with sourdough! I buy the three-pack from Costco, and I swear it elevates this salad.

The beloved Italian classic Panzanella is a family favorite and always a crowd-pleaser. However, we keep the traditional summer classic with a delightful addition of fresh mozzarella that will leave your taste buds craving more. So grab your aprons, and let’s dive into the delicious world of panzanella.

What is Panzanella? A Summer Classic

Panzanella is a traditional Tuscan salad that originated in the 16th century. It is renowned for its simplicity, vibrant flavors, and creative use of leftover bread. The primary ingredients include day-old bread, juicy tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, fresh basil, and a tangy dressing made of olive oil, red wine vinegar, and garlic. This refreshing salad perfectly blends textures, flavors, and colors, making it a true summer classic.

Over the years, this rustic bread salad has evolved into a culinary masterpiece adored by food enthusiasts worldwide. The combination of fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and crusty bread, all soaked in a delectably tangy dressing, makes Panzanella a perfect summer dish that will leave you wanting more.

Panzanella – A Burst of Freshness in Every Bite

Key Ingredients:

1. Bread: While stale bread was traditionally used in Panzanella, you can employ a variety of bread types such as ciabatta, baguette, or sourdough, which is my favorite. Opt for slightly crusty bread that will hold its shape when mixed with the other ingredients.
2. Tomatoes: Select ripe and juicy tomatoes for the base flavor of your Panzanella. Cherry tomatoes or heirloom varieties can add a burst of color and an extra layer of flavor.
3. Onions: Thinly sliced red onions lend a sweetness and a mild bite to balance the flavors.
4. Fresh Herbs: The essence of Panzanella lies in aromatic herbs like basil provide a burst of freshness.
5. Mozzarella: adds a creamy, delicious flavor to each bite.
6. Red Wine Vinegar is used to add a tangy kick to the dressing.
7. Olive Oil: A good-quality extra virgin olive oil combines everything, beautifully coating the bread and vegetables, enhancing the flavors, and providing a luscious mouthfeel.
8. Salt and Pepper: These traditional seasonings enhance the taste profile, making the flavors stand out.

Panzanella: An Uncomplicated Recipe

Now that we’ve explored the key ingredients let’s dive into this step-by-step process of making your very own Panzanella salad:

Step 1: Prep the Bread
Cut the bread into bite-sized pieces and transfer them to a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and salt, and toast them lightly in the oven to achieve a crisp texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables and Herbs
Chop the tomatoes, and slice the red onions. Finely chop the fresh basil.

Step 3: Dressing Magic
Whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.

Step 4: Combining the Ingredients
Combine the bread, tomatoes, mozzarella, onions, and basil in a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the ingredients and gently toss to ensure even distribution.

Step 5: Allow for Flavor Infusion
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to an hour, allowing the bread to soak up the flavors of the dressing and the vegetables to marry together beautifully.

Step 6: Serve and Savor!
Just before serving, gently toss the Panzanella to redistribute the dressing. Arrange the salad on individual plates or a platter, and Enjoy!!

If you love dishes like Panzanella, then please also try:

• Cherry Tomato Caprese Salad
• Burrata with Roasted Tomatoes & Spicy Pesto
• Strawberry and balsamic Baked Brie (perfect summer Appetizer)
• Honey Peach & Chipotle Baked Brie
• Steak and Burrata Crostini