Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Panzanella is the perfect summer salad because it’s both light and hearty. The day-old bread, toasted to perfection, absorbs all the delicious flavors from the vinaigrette, making it more than just a simple salad. The combination of juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil makes every bite burst with flavor. Whether served as a side dish or as a main, this salad is versatile, healthy, and utterly delicious. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and great for using up leftover bread!

Ingredients

6 cups day-old Italian bread, torn into bite-size pieces
⅓ cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
3 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
4 medium ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
¾ cup sliced red onion
10 basil leaves, shredded
½ cup pitted and halved green olives (optional)
1 cup fresh mozzarella, cut into bite-size pieces (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, toss the torn bread with ⅓ cup olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic until well-coated.
Spread the bread cubes evenly on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5 to 10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Once done, transfer the toasted bread to the bowl and set it aside to cool slightly.
In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup olive oil and balsamic vinegar to create the vinaigrette.
Add the tomatoes, sliced red onion, shredded basil, olives, and mozzarella (if using) to the bowl with the toasted bread. Pour the vinaigrette over the ingredients and toss everything together gently until evenly combined.
Let the salad sit for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Add Grilled Vegetables: For an extra dose of flavor and texture, add grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant to the salad.
Use Different Bread: While Italian bread is traditional, you can use other types of rustic bread like sourdough or ciabatta.
Add Protein: To make this salad a more filling meal, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Add Avocado: For an added creamy texture, toss in some diced avocado just before serving.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Panzanella is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Keep in mind that the bread may lose its crispiness as it sits, but it will still absorb the vinaigrette and retain flavor.
Reheating: Reheating is not recommended, as the salad is meant to be served cold and fresh. If you have leftovers, simply enjoy them the next day.

FAQs

Can I make Panzanella ahead of time?

You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving. This allows the bread to absorb the dressing without becoming too soggy.

Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old bread?

While fresh bread can be used, day-old bread is ideal for Panzanella as it soaks up the vinaigrette better without getting too mushy.

Can I add protein to Panzanella?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a hard-boiled egg can be added to make the salad a more filling meal.

What type of tomatoes should I use for Panzanella?

Ripe, juicy tomatoes such as Roma, heirloom, or beefsteak tomatoes are ideal for Panzanella because they provide the best flavor and texture.

Is Panzanella a good make-ahead dish?

Yes, Panzanella is great for make-ahead meals. The flavors only improve as they sit, but it’s best to assemble it no more than a few hours before serving to preserve the texture of the bread.

Can I make Panzanella without cheese?

Yes, if you’re vegan or prefer not to use cheese, you can omit the mozzarella. The salad will still be flavorful and delicious.

Can I use other herbs in Panzanella?

Basil is the classic herb, but you can add other fresh herbs like parsley, oregano, or thyme for a different flavor profile.

How can I make Panzanella spicier?

If you like a little heat, try adding some red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the salad for a spicy kick.

How do I store Panzanella leftovers?

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The bread will lose its crispiness, but the salad will still be flavorful.

Conclusion

Panzanella Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that showcases the best of summer produce. The crunchy, toasted bread combined with juicy tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a tangy vinaigrette makes for a perfectly balanced salad that is both satisfying and light. It’s an easy-to-make dish that will quickly become a favorite for family dinners, picnics, and potlucks. Whether served as a side or main dish, Panzanella is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and amazing taste.