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Panzanella salad, a classic Italian dish, beautifully showcases the essence of summer through its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors. Originating from Tuscany, this rustic salad is a celebration of seasonal produce, making it a staple in many Italian households during the warmer months. At its core, Panzanella is a delightful mix of ripe tomatoes, crunchy vegetables, and stale bread, creating a dish that is not only delicious but also a testament to utilizing every ingredient to its fullest potential.

Tomato Basil Panzanella Salad

Discover the freshness of summer with this vibrant Tomato Basil Panzanella Salad, a classic Italian dish that celebrates seasonal produce. Featuring juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and aromatic basil, this salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. The clever use of stale bread soak up the delicious juices, making each bite satisfying. Perfect for picnics or light meals, it's an easy yet impressive way to enjoy the best of summer produce while minimizing waste. Embrace the spirit of resourceful cooking and elevate your summer gatherings with this delicious salad!
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Ingredients
  

4 large ripe tomatoes, assorted colors and sizes, chopped into bite-sized pieces

1 cucumber, peeled and diced

1 red onion, thinly sliced

1 bell pepper (any color), diced

1 ½ cups stale crusty bread (such as ciabatta or sourdough), cut into bite-sized cubes

1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn into smaller pieces

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Prep the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, and diced bell pepper. Gently toss the vegetables using a spatula or wooden spoon to ensure they are evenly mixed and coated.

    Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the mixture is well-emulsified and creamy. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed—this allows for personalized flavor enhancement.

      Add the Bread: Introduce the stale bread cubes into the vegetable mixture. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad. Using your hands or a spatula, gently toss the salad to ensure the bread absorbs the dressing and mingles with the vegetables without breaking apart too much.

        Incorporate the Basil: Carefully add the torn basil leaves to the salad. Gently mix one more time, using light motions to preserve the shape of both the bread cubes and the delicate basil.

          Let It Rest: Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for approximately 15–30 minutes before serving. This resting period is crucial, as it allows the bread to soak up the delicious juices released by the tomatoes and the dressing, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

            Serve: Just before serving, give the salad a final gentle toss to redistribute any settled ingredients. Present your vibrant and refreshing Tomato Basil Panzanella Salad as a delightful side dish or a light meal that captures the essence of summer!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | Serves 4-6