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Summer Panzanella Salad

Summer Panzanella Salad That Refreshes Every Bite

This Summer Panzanella Salad is a vibrant Tuscan classic, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Best Recipe Ideas
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 loaf Ciabatta or Baguette Choose stale bread for best texture and flavor absorption.
  • 2 tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil For both dressing and toasting the bread.
  • to taste Kosher Salt Enhances natural flavors.
  • 1 medium Thinly Sliced Red Onion Soak in dressing to soften sharpness.
  • 1 pound Tomatoes Opt for a mix of heirloom and cherry tomatoes.
  • 1 medium Stone Fruit (Peach, Nectarine, or Mango) Adds a sweet pop.
  • 1/3 cup Fresh Basil Torn leaves, elevates freshness.
  • 6 ounces Mozzarella or Burrata Cheese Provides creamy texture.
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Use high-quality oil.
  • 2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar Adds tangy brightness.
  • 2 teaspoons Honey Balances acidity.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard Helps to emulsify dressing.
  • 1 clove Grated Garlic Infuses aromatic flavors.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Kosher Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper Essential for seasoning.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Cut stale ciabatta or baguette into bite-sized cubes, toss with 2 tbsp olive oil and a pinch of kosher salt, spread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes until golden brown and crunchy.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tbsp red wine vinegar, 2 tsp honey, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, and grated garlic. Season with 1/4 tsp kosher salt and black pepper, add red onion and let sit for 10 minutes.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread with 1 pound diced tomatoes, 1 medium stone fruit, and 1/3 cup torn basil leaves. Toss to combine.
  5. Pour dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently, let the salad rest for 15-30 minutes at room temperature.
  6. Before serving, add 6 ounces of torn mozzarella or burrata and garnish with fresh basil. Serve fresh.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For the best taste, consume within 2 hours. Use stale bread for optimal texture.

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