There’s something undeniably magical about transforming day-old bread into a vibrant, flavorful dish, and that’s exactly what panzanella salad does with effortless charm. Perfect for home cooks looking to whip up something both refreshing and satisfying, these 18 creative takes on the classic Italian bread salad promise to delight your taste buds and add a splash of color to your table. Ready to explore these delicious variations? Let’s dive in!
Classic Tomato and Basil Panzanella Salad
Kick off your summer with this refreshing Classic Tomato and Basil Panzanella Salad. It’s the perfect way to use up stale bread and ripe tomatoes, turning them into a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
- Stale bread – 4 cups, cubed
- Tomatoes – 2 cups, chopped
- Fresh basil – ½ cup, torn
- Olive oil – ¼ cup
- Red wine vinegar – 2 tbsp
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Black pepper – ½ tsp
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Spread the cubed stale bread on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tbsp of olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
- Bake the bread for 10-12 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Let it cool for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes and torn basil.
- Add the cooled bread cubes to the tomato and basil mixture.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 tbsp of olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Tip: For extra flavor, add a clove of minced garlic to the dressing.
- Tip: If your bread isn’t stale, you can dry it out in the oven at a low temperature before cubing and toasting.
- Tip: Serve the salad at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
Now, this salad is all about the contrast between the juicy tomatoes and the crispy bread. The basil adds a fresh punch, making it a standout side or light meal. Try serving it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete dinner.
Summer Peach and Mozzarella Panzanella Salad
Let’s dive into a refreshing summer dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. This peach and mozzarella panzanella salad is your go-to for those hot days when you want something light yet satisfying.
Ingredients
- Bread – 4 cups, cubed
- Peaches – 2, sliced
- Mozzarella – 8 oz, cubed
- Olive oil – ¼ cup
- Balsamic vinegar – 2 tbsp
- Salt – ½ tsp
- Black pepper – ¼ tsp
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Toss the bread cubes with 2 tbsp of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Spread them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy. Tip: Stir halfway for even browning.
- In a large bowl, combine the peaches and mozzarella.
- Whisk together the remaining olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
- Add the toasted bread cubes to the peach and mozzarella mixture.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Tip: Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve immediately. Tip: For an extra touch, garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Vibrant and juicy peaches pair perfectly with creamy mozzarella and crunchy bread in this salad. It’s a delightful mix of textures and flavors that’s perfect for a summer picnic or a quick lunch at home.
Roasted Vegetable Panzanella Salad
Ready to dive into a dish that’s as vibrant as it is satisfying? This Roasted Vegetable Panzanella Salad brings together the best of summer produce and crusty bread in a way that’s effortlessly delicious. You’ll love how the flavors meld together.
Ingredients
- Bread – 4 cups, cubed
- Cherry tomatoes – 2 cups, halved
- Zucchini – 1 medium, sliced
- Red onion – 1 small, thinly sliced
- Olive oil – ¼ cup
- Red wine vinegar – 2 tbsp
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Black pepper – ½ tsp
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. This ensures everything roasts evenly.
- Toss the bread cubes with 2 tbsp olive oil, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Spread on a baking sheet. Tip: Stale bread works best for extra crunch.
- Roast the bread for 10 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Set aside.
- On the same baking sheet, combine cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and red onion with the remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20 minutes, stirring halfway. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan for perfect roasting.
- In a large bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar with any remaining olive oil from the roasting pan. Tip: This dressing picks up all the delicious flavors from the veggies.
- Add the roasted vegetables and bread cubes to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
What makes this salad stand out is the contrast between the juicy tomatoes and the crispy bread. Serve it immediately to enjoy the textures at their best, or let it sit for a bit to soak up more dressing.
Avocado and Corn Panzanella Salad
Now, imagine you’ve got a bunch of ripe avocados and some sweet corn lying around. You’re in for a treat with this Avocado and Corn Panzanella Salad—it’s fresh, it’s crunchy, and it’s downright delicious.
Ingredients
- Bread – 2 cups, cubed
- Avocado – 1, diced
- Corn – 1 cup, kernels
- Olive oil – 2 tbsp
- Lemon juice – 1 tbsp
- Salt – ½ tsp
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Toss the bread cubes with 1 tbsp of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Spread them out on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10 minutes, or until the bread is golden and crispy. Tip: Stir the cubes halfway through for even browning.
- While the bread toasts, heat the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the corn kernels to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re slightly charred. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet to get a nice char.
- In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread, charred corn, and diced avocado.
- Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with the remaining salt. Gently toss to combine. Tip: Add the avocado last to keep it from getting mushy.
So, there you have it—a salad that’s a riot of textures, from the creamy avocado to the crunchy bread and sweet, smoky corn. Serve it straight up, or throw in some cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and acidity.
Strawberry and Spinach Panzanella Salad
Kickstart your summer with this refreshing twist on a classic panzanella. You’ll love the sweet strawberries and hearty spinach, all tossed with crispy bread for that perfect crunch.
Ingredients
- Strawberries – 2 cups, sliced
- Spinach – 4 cups, loosely packed
- Bread – 3 cups, cubed
- Olive oil – ¼ cup
- Balsamic vinegar – 2 tbsp
- Salt – ½ tsp
- Black pepper – ¼ tsp
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures your bread cubes get perfectly crispy.
- Toss the bread cubes with 2 tbsp of olive oil, ¼ tsp of salt, and ¼ tsp of black pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- While the bread toasts, whisk together the remaining 2 tbsp of olive oil and 2 tbsp of balsamic vinegar in a large bowl. This is your dressing.
- Add the sliced strawberries and spinach to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to coat everything evenly.
- Once the bread cubes are ready, let them cool for a minute before adding them to the salad. This keeps them from getting soggy.
- Toss everything together one final time. Serve immediately for the best texture.
Just imagine the contrast of juicy strawberries against the crisp bread, all brought together with a tangy balsamic dressing. Try serving it with grilled chicken for a complete meal.
Greek Style Panzanella Salad with Feta
Out of all the summer salads, this Greek Style Panzanella with Feta is a game-changer. You’ll love how the crispy bread soaks up the dressing while keeping its crunch.
Ingredients
- Bread – 4 cups, cubed
- Cucumber – 1 cup, diced
- Tomatoes – 1 cup, diced
- Red onion – ½ cup, thinly sliced
- Feta cheese – ½ cup, crumbled
- Olive oil – ¼ cup
- Red wine vinegar – 2 tbsp
- Dried oregano – 1 tsp
- Salt – ½ tsp
- Black pepper – ¼ tsp
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Tip: Stale bread works best for extra crunch.
- In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Tip: Let the dressing sit for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Add the toasted bread cubes and feta cheese to the large bowl with the vegetables.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Tip: Toss the salad just before serving to keep the bread from getting soggy.
Ready to dig in? The salad is a delightful mix of crunchy, juicy, and tangy flavors. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
Caprese Panzanella Salad
Looking for a fresh, no-cook summer dish? You’ll love this Caprese Panzanella Salad. It’s a twist on the classic, with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and crispy bread.
Ingredients
- Bread – 4 cups, cubed
- Tomatoes – 2 cups, chopped
- Mozzarella – 1 cup, cubed
- Basil – ½ cup, torn
- Olive oil – ¼ cup
- Balsamic vinegar – 2 tbsp
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Black pepper – ½ tsp
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet. Toast for 10 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Tip: Stir halfway for even toasting.
- In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Tip: Adjust the vinegar for more tang if you like.
- Pour the dressing over the salad. Toss gently to coat everything. Tip: Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Ultimate summer vibes with this salad! The bread soaks up the dressing but stays crunchy, while the tomatoes and mozzarella keep it fresh. Try serving it with grilled chicken for a hearty meal.
Mediterranean Panzanella Salad with Olives
Dig into this refreshing Mediterranean Panzanella Salad with Olives, perfect for those warm summer days when you crave something light yet satisfying. It’s a vibrant mix of textures and flavors that’ll transport you straight to the Mediterranean coast.
Ingredients
- Bread – 4 cups, cubed
- Cherry tomatoes – 2 cups, halved
- Cucumber – 1, diced
- Red onion – ½, thinly sliced
- Kalamata olives – ½ cup, pitted
- Feta cheese – ½ cup, crumbled
- Olive oil – ¼ cup
- Red wine vinegar – 2 tbsp
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Black pepper – ½ tsp
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Toss the bread cubes with 2 tbsp of olive oil, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy. Tip: Stir halfway for even browning.
- In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives.
- Add the remaining olive oil, red wine vinegar, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper to the bowl. Toss well. Tip: Let it sit for 5 minutes to marinate.
- Add the toasted bread cubes and feta cheese to the bowl. Gently toss to combine. Tip: Add the bread cubes just before serving to keep them crispy.
Vibrant and bursting with flavors, this salad offers a delightful crunch from the bread and a tangy punch from the dressing. Serve it as a standalone meal or alongside grilled fish for a Mediterranean feast.
Autumn Panzanella Salad with Butternut Squash
Ready to dive into a dish that screams autumn? This panzanella salad is your go-to for a cozy, flavorful meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- Butternut squash – 2 cups, cubed
- Olive oil – 2 tbsp
- Salt – ½ tsp
- Bread – 3 cups, cubed
- Apple cider vinegar – 1 tbsp
- Dijon mustard – 1 tsp
- Honey – 1 tsp
- Mixed greens – 4 cups
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Toss the butternut squash cubes with 1 tbsp olive oil and ¼ tsp salt on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized at the edges.
- While the squash roasts, toss the bread cubes with the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and ¼ tsp salt on another baking sheet.
- Toast in the oven for 10 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
- Whisk together the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey in a small bowl to make the dressing.
- In a large bowl, combine the roasted squash, toasted bread cubes, and mixed greens.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
For a twist, try adding roasted pecans for crunch or crumbled goat cheese for creaminess. Either way, you’re in for a treat with this hearty, sweet, and tangy salad.
Winter Panzanella Salad with Roasted Beets
Feeling the chill but craving something fresh? This winter panzanella salad with roasted beets is your answer. It’s a cozy yet vibrant dish that brings warmth and color to your table.
Ingredients
- Beets – 2 large, peeled and cubed
- Olive oil – 3 tbsp
- Salt – ½ tsp
- Bread – 4 cups, cubed
- Apple cider vinegar – 2 tbsp
- Dijon mustard – 1 tsp
- Honey – 1 tsp
- Arugula – 4 cups
- Goat cheese – ½ cup, crumbled
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Toss the beets with 1 tbsp olive oil and ¼ tsp salt on a baking sheet. Roast for 25 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Tip: Roasting beets intensifies their sweetness.
- While the beets roast, spread the bread cubes on another baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil and bake for 10 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Tip: Stale bread works best for panzanella.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and remaining ¼ tsp salt. Tip: Adjust the honey to balance the acidity to your liking.
- In a large bowl, combine the roasted beets, toasted bread cubes, arugula, and goat cheese. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to combine.
What makes this salad stand out is the contrast between the earthy beets, peppery arugula, and creamy goat cheese. Serve it as a hearty side or top with a poached egg for a satisfying meal.
Spring Panzanella Salad with Asparagus
Feeling the spring vibes yet? You’ll love this fresh take on panzanella, packed with crisp asparagus and crusty bread. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season’s bounty.
Ingredients
- Bread – 4 cups, cubed
- Asparagus – 1 lb, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- Olive oil – ¼ cup
- Red wine vinegar – 2 tbsp
- Salt – ½ tsp
- Black pepper – ¼ tsp
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. This high heat will help the bread cubes get perfectly crispy.
- Toss the bread cubes with 2 tbsp of olive oil, ¼ tsp of salt, and ⅛ tsp of black pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the bread won’t crisp up evenly.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the bread is golden and crispy. Let it cool slightly.
- While the bread is toasting, heat the remaining 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus pieces. Tip: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the asparagus to get a nice sear.
- Cook the asparagus for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s bright green and just tender. Remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes and asparagus. Drizzle with red wine vinegar and the remaining ⅛ tsp of black pepper. Toss gently to combine. Tip: Let the salad sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Asparagus adds a delightful crunch, while the bread soaks up the tangy vinegar. Try serving it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or shaved Parmesan for an extra flavor boost.
Chicken Caesar Panzanella Salad
Let’s dive into a dish that’s both hearty and refreshing, perfect for those days when you crave something satisfying yet light. You’ll love how the crispy bread soaks up the creamy dressing, making every bite a delightful mix of textures.
Ingredients
- Chicken breast – 1 lb
- Romaine lettuce – 1 head
- Ciabatta bread – 2 cups, cubed
- Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated
- Caesar dressing – ¼ cup
- Olive oil – 2 tbsp
- Salt – ½ tsp
- Black pepper – ¼ tsp
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Toss the ciabatta cubes with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Tip: Stir halfway for even browning.
- Heat the remaining olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper.
- Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Tip: Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place in a large bowl.
- Add the baked ciabatta cubes and sliced chicken to the bowl.
- Drizzle with Caesar dressing and toss gently to combine. Tip: Add dressing gradually to avoid overdressing.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Now, this salad brings a crunch from the bread, tenderness from the chicken, and a creamy tang from the dressing. Try serving it with extra Parmesan on top for an extra flavor kick.
Seafood Panzanella Salad with Shrimp
Ready to dive into a refreshing twist on a classic? This Seafood Panzanella Salad with Shrimp is your go-to for a light yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for those warm days when you crave something fresh but hearty.
Ingredients
- Shrimp – 1 lb
- Ciabatta bread – 2 cups, cubed
- Cherry tomatoes – 1 cup, halved
- Cucumber – 1, diced
- Red onion – ½, thinly sliced
- Olive oil – ¼ cup
- Red wine vinegar – 2 tbsp
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Black pepper – ½ tsp
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Toss the ciabatta cubes with 2 tbsp of olive oil, ½ tsp of salt, and ¼ tsp of black pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Tip: Stir halfway through for even browning.
- While the bread toasts, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, seasoning with the remaining salt and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure each shrimp gets a nice sear.
- In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread, shrimp, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- Whisk together the remaining olive oil and red wine vinegar. Drizzle over the salad and toss gently to combine. Tip: Let the salad sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Bright and vibrant, this salad offers a delightful crunch from the toasted bread, balanced by the juicy tomatoes and tender shrimp. Serve it with a chilled glass of white wine for an effortless summer dinner that’s sure to impress.
Vegan Panzanella Salad with Tofu
Alright, let’s dive into making this refreshing Vegan Panzanella Salad with Tofu. It’s perfect for those warm days when you crave something light yet satisfying.
Ingredients
- Bread – 4 cups, cubed
- Tofu – 1 block, pressed and cubed
- Tomatoes – 2 cups, chopped
- Cucumber – 1 cup, diced
- Red onion – ½ cup, thinly sliced
- Olive oil – ¼ cup
- Apple cider vinegar – 2 tbsp
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Black pepper – ½ tsp
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Toss the bread cubes with 2 tbsp of olive oil, ½ tsp of salt, and ¼ tsp of black pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy. Tip: Stir halfway for even browning.
- While the bread toasts, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes.
- Cook the tofu for 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until all sides are golden. Tip: Pressing the tofu beforehand removes excess water for better texture.
- In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread, tofu, tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- Whisk together the remaining olive oil, apple cider vinegar, ½ tsp of salt, and ¼ tsp of black pepper. Pour over the salad.
- Toss everything gently to coat. Tip: Let the salad sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Fresh and vibrant, this salad offers a delightful crunch from the bread and tofu, balanced by the juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumber. Serve it in a hollowed-out watermelon for a fun summer presentation.
Gluten-Free Panzanella Salad
Zesty and fresh, this gluten-free panzanella salad is your go-to summer dish. You’ll love how the crisp veggies and crunchy bread come together with a simple dressing. It’s light, satisfying, and packed with flavors that scream sunshine.
Ingredients
– Gluten-free bread – 4 cups, cubed
– Cherry tomatoes – 2 cups, halved
– Cucumber – 1 cup, diced
– Red onion – ½ cup, thinly sliced
– Olive oil – ¼ cup
– Red wine vinegar – 2 tbsp
– Salt – 1 tsp
– Black pepper – ½ tsp
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Spread the gluten-free bread cubes on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tbsp of olive oil and toss to coat.
3. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the bread is golden and crispy. Tip: Keep an eye on the bread to prevent burning.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Tip: Adjust the vinegar for more tang if you like.
6. Add the toasted bread cubes to the large bowl with the vegetables.
7. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Tip: Let the salad sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
8. Serve immediately.
Mouthwatering and vibrant, this salad offers a delightful crunch from the bread and a juicy burst from the tomatoes. Try adding some fresh basil leaves for an aromatic twist or serve it alongside grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
Spicy Panzanella Salad with Chili Flakes
This Spicy Panzanella Salad with Chili Flakes is your go-to for a quick, flavorful meal that packs a punch. Perfect for those days when you want something light yet satisfying.
Ingredients
- Bread – 4 cups, cubed
- Tomatoes – 2 cups, chopped
- Cucumber – 1 cup, diced
- Red onion – ½ cup, thinly sliced
- Olive oil – ¼ cup
- Red wine vinegar – 2 tbsp
- Chili flakes – 1 tsp
- Salt – ½ tsp
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Toss the bread cubes with 2 tbsp of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Spread them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy. Tip: Stir halfway for even browning.
- In a large bowl, combine tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- Whisk together the remaining olive oil, red wine vinegar, chili flakes, and salt in a small bowl. Tip: Adjust chili flakes to your heat preference.
- Add the toasted bread cubes to the vegetable mix.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Tip: Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Mouthwatering and crunchy, this salad is a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or enjoy it as a standalone dish for a light lunch.
Herbed Panzanella Salad with Fresh Dill
You’re going to love this herbed panzanella salad—it’s fresh, flavorful, and perfect for those warm summer days. With fresh dill and a mix of herbs, it’s a breeze to throw together.
Ingredients
- Bread – 4 cups, cubed
- Tomatoes – 2 cups, chopped
- Cucumber – 1 cup, diced
- Red onion – ½ cup, thinly sliced
- Fresh dill – ¼ cup, chopped
- Olive oil – ¼ cup
- Red wine vinegar – 2 tbsp
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Black pepper – ½ tsp
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer. Toast for 10 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Let them cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and fresh dill. Toss gently to mix.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and black pepper until well blended. Tip: For a smoother dressing, emulsify the ingredients by whisking vigorously.
- Add the toasted bread cubes to the large bowl with the vegetables. Drizzle the dressing over the top. Tip: Add the dressing just before serving to keep the bread from getting soggy.
- Toss everything together until the bread is lightly coated with the dressing. Let the salad sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Tip: If you prefer a softer texture, let it sit for up to 10 minutes.
The salad is a delightful mix of crunchy and soft textures, with the fresh dill adding a bright, herby note. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, or enjoy it as is for a light lunch.
Balsamic Glazed Panzanella Salad
Mmm, imagine biting into a salad that’s a perfect mix of crunchy, tangy, and sweet. That’s what you get with this balsamic glazed panzanella salad, a dish that turns simple ingredients into something special.
Ingredients
- Bread – 4 cups, cubed
- Tomatoes – 2 cups, chopped
- Cucumber – 1 cup, diced
- Red onion – ½ cup, thinly sliced
- Balsamic vinegar – ¼ cup
- Olive oil – ¼ cup
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Black pepper – ½ tsp
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Toss the bread cubes with 2 tbsp of olive oil, ½ tsp of salt, and ¼ tsp of black pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy. Tip: Stir halfway through for even browning.
- In a large bowl, combine tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper. Tip: Adjust the vinegar to oil ratio if you prefer it more tangy or mild.
- Add the toasted bread cubes to the vegetables.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Tip: Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
So, there you have it—a salad that’s bursting with flavors and textures. The bread soaks up the dressing just enough to stay crunchy, while the veggies add a fresh contrast. Try serving it with grilled chicken for a hearty meal.
Conclusion
Ready to elevate your salad game? This roundup of 18 creative Panzanella salad recipes offers a treasure trove of flavors to explore. Perfect for home cooks looking to impress or simply enjoy a fresh, hearty meal. Don’t forget to try your favorites, share your thoughts in the comments, and pin this article on Pinterest to spread the delicious inspiration!