Classic Panzanella Salad With Delicious Homemade Dressing Recipe

If you’re craving a bright, refreshing dish that celebrates the very best of summer’s harvest, you’ve got to try this Classic Panzanella Salad With Delicious Homemade Dressing Recipe. This Italian bread salad is a beautiful blend of ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, tangy red onions, and fragrant basil, all perfectly coated in a simple yet sensational vinaigrette. Every bite bursts with vibrant colors and textures, making it not only a feast for the palate but also for the eyes. Whether you want a light lunch, a stunning side, or a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering, this recipe is your new go-to!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this salad comes from a handful of straightforward, wholesome ingredients that each play a vital role in building the salad’s signature texture and flavor. From juicy tomatoes to aromatic basil, every component contributes to making this dish unforgettable.

• 4 cups Ripe Tomatoes: Chopped into bite-sized pieces, these bring juiciness and a sweet acidity that’s the salad’s backbone.
• 1 large Cucumber: Peeled and sliced into half-moons, cucumbers offer a refreshing crunch that balances the softness of bread.
• 1 small Red Onion: Thinly sliced for a sharp bite; soaking in cold water tames its pungency if you prefer.
• 3 cups Stale Bread: Cut into cubes, the bread soaks up the dressing wonderfully, adding heartiness without sogginess.
• 1 cup Fresh Basil: Torn into small pieces, basil imparts a fresh, herbal aroma that elevates the entire dish.
• 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil: High quality oil is essential here to add a silky, rich mouthfeel and to harmonize flavors.
• 2 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar: Offers a lovely tang and sweetness that brightens up the salad.
• Salt: To taste—enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Pepper: To taste—adds a subtle heat and depth to the dressing.

How to Make Classic Panzanella Salad With Delicious Homemade Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the tomatoes

Start by washing your ripe tomatoes thoroughly, then chop them into bite-sized pieces and drop them into a large mixing bowl. These juicy chunks set the foundation for your salad’s fresh character.

Step 2: Add the cucumber

Next, peel the cucumber and slice it into half-moons before adding it to your bowl. This crisp vegetable introduces a lovely contrast in texture that keeps every bite lively and crisp.

Step 3: Slice and soak the red onion

Thinly slice the red onion for a delicate zing. If you want to soften its sharpness, soak the slices in cold water for about 10 minutes before adding them to the salad. This step mellows the flavor beautifully.

Step 4: Incorporate the stale bread cubes

Cut your stale bread into bite-sized cubes and toss them into the bowl. The bread is the heart of this salad; by soaking up the dressing, it becomes wonderfully flavorful without losing its chewy texture.

Step 5: Add fresh basil

Tear fresh basil leaves into small pieces and sprinkle them evenly over the salad ingredients. Basil’s herbaceous notes really bring this Classic Panzanella Salad With Delicious Homemade Dressing Recipe to life.

Step 6: Whisk the dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and freshly cracked pepper to enhance the dressing’s balance. This dressing is simple but crucial—it unites all the salad’s components.

Step 7: Dress and toss the salad

Drizzle the homemade dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to ensure that every piece of bread, vegetable, and basil is lightly coated with flavor.

Step 8: Let it rest

Set the salad aside for about 15 minutes. This waiting time allows the bread to soak up the dressing and the flavors to meld beautifully—a key secret to this recipe’s deliciousness.

Step 9: Final toss and season

Give the salad a final gentle toss before serving and taste to adjust any seasoning. A pinch more salt or pepper can make all the difference in perfecting your Classic Panzanella Salad With Delicious Homemade Dressing Recipe.

How to Serve Classic Panzanella Salad With Delicious Homemade Dressing Recipe

Garnishes

Consider adding a few fresh basil leaves or even a sprinkling of shaved Parmesan for an elegant touch. A few olives or capers work wonderfully too, providing bursts of salty flavor that complement the salad’s freshness.

Side Dishes

This salad shines as a side to grilled meats or seafood, such as lemon-garlic chicken or herb-roasted fish. It also makes a fantastic light main course on its own, especially when paired with a crusty loaf of bread or a chilled glass of white wine.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, try layering the ingredients in a clear glass bowl so the vibrant colors can be seen. You can also serve it on individual plates, neatly arranged and garnished with a fresh basil sprig or a drizzle of extra dressing for a restaurant-style touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Because this salad features bread, it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and give it a gentle toss before serving to refresh it.

Freezing

Panzanella salad is not ideal for freezing. The vegetables and bread will lose their texture and become mushy upon thawing, so it’s better to enjoy this recipe fresh.

Reheating

This salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t recommended. Just allow refrigerated leftovers to come to room temperature before tossing and serving again.

FAQs

Can I use fresh bread instead of stale bread?

For authentic texture, stale bread is best because it soaks up the dressing without turning to mush. If using fresh bread, consider toasting it lightly first.

Is it possible to make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can whisk the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper up to a day before and store it in the fridge. Just bring it to room temperature before dressing the salad.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to toss in bell peppers, radishes, or even some ripe avocado for extra creaminess and flavor diversity.

How long can the salad sit before serving?

Allowing the salad to rest for 15 minutes after tossing helps the bread absorb the dressing and flavors meld, resulting in a tastier dish.

Is this salad suitable for vegans?

Yes, this Classic Panzanella Salad With Delicious Homemade Dressing Recipe is entirely plant-based and perfect for vegans and vegetarians alike.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly joyful about making and sharing a Classic Panzanella Salad With Delicious Homemade Dressing Recipe. It takes simple ingredients and turns them into an extraordinary bold and flavorful dish that feels like sunshine on a plate. So don’t hesitate—gather your friends, pick up those fresh veggies, and dive into this colorful Italian classic. Your taste buds will thank you!

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