Panzanella, a vibrant and refreshing Tuscan bread salad, is the epitome of rustic Italian cuisine. This simple yet incredibly flavorful dish is a testament to the magic of utilizing readily available ingredients, transforming day-old bread into a culinary masterpiece. The beauty of panzanella lies in its adaptability; feel free to adjust the vegetables based on your preferences and what's in season, ensuring a unique and delicious experience every time. The combination of crusty bread, juicy tomatoes, crisp vegetables, and a zesty vinaigrette creates a symphony of textures and tastes, perfect for a light lunch, a satisfying side dish, or even a simple supper.
This classic Italian salad is surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavour. Ready to experience the simplicity and deliciousness of authentic panzanella? Let's dive into the step-by-step process to create this unforgettable Tuscan treat.
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Pan
Ingredients
- Old white bread
- Cucumber
- Tomato
- Onion: 1 medium
- Garlic: 2 cloves
- Olives: a couple
- Raw peppercorns: 2
- Mozzarella cheese
- Basil
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Salt
- Pepper
- Rosemary
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Chop all vegetables (cucumber, tomato, onion, garlic, olives, peppercorns) into small pieces. The amount depends on how many servings you are making.
- Prepare the cucumber by lightly peeling some parts for better aesthetics.
- Cut the onion into rings and separate them slightly.
- Cut the bread into bite-sized pieces. Ideally, use day-old bread.
- Roughly chop the basil.
Step 2. Toast the Bread
- Heat olive oil in a pan. Add rosemary and one clove of garlic. Add the bread cubes and toast until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the garlic and rosemary from the pan once the bread is toasted.
- Let the toasted bread cool down.
Step 3. Assemble the Salad
- Combine the toasted bread, chopped vegetables, basil, mozzarella, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Step 4. Dress and Serve
- Dress the salad with balsamic vinegar and olive oil.
- Stir well and serve.
Read more: Sicilian Penne with Cauliflower: A Flavorful Mediterranean Dish
Tips
- You can add or change ingredients to your liking. There's a lot of variation possible.
- The recipe is designed for 3 people, adjust quantities as needed.
- Using day-old bread is preferable for this recipe.
Nutrition
- Calories: 500-700
- Fat: 25-40g
- Carbs: 50-70g
- Protein: 15-20g
FAQs
1. Can I use any type of bread for Panzanella?
While crusty bread is traditional, day-old bread of any kind works well as long as it's not too soft or moldy. A firm texture is key to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
2. How far in advance can I prepare Panzanella?
It's best to assemble panzanella shortly before serving to prevent the bread from becoming too soggy. You can prep the vegetables ahead of time, but add the dressing and bread just before serving.
So there you have it – a simple yet satisfying Panzanella recipe that's perfect for any occasion. This vibrant salad is a testament to the beauty of fresh, seasonal ingredients and minimal fuss. Enjoy the delightful taste of Tuscany, right from your kitchen!