Summer Panzanella Salad
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Summer Panzanella Salad is a revitalizing twist on a classic, bursting with vibrant flavors and textures that make it a perfect warm-weather dish. You’ll love how easy it is to throw together while still feeling special enough for any occasion.
- Bright & Fresh: Juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and tangy red onions come together for a burst of summer in every bite.
- Crunchy Goodness: Toasted bread cubes add the perfect crunch, soaking up the zesty dressing without getting soggy.
- Simple & Versatile: Customize with your favorite herbs or add-ins like olives or cheese—it’s hard to mess up!
Recipe
Summer Panzanella Salad is a rejuvenating and vibrant dish that combines the best of seasonal produce with crusty bread, making it a perfect addition to any summer meal. This Italian-inspired salad is both hearty and light, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups crusty bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 English cucumber, sliced
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Toss the bread cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, basil, and olives.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and the remaining salt and pepper.
- Add the toasted bread cubes to the vegetable mixture and drizzle with the dressing. Toss gently to combine.
- If desired, sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese before serving.
Notes:
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread.
- The salad is best served immediately but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before serving.
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Serving: 4-6
Calories: ~250 per serving
Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
This Summer Panzanella Salad is not only invigorating but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content:
| Calories | Carbs (g) | Protein (g) | Fat (g) | Fiber (g) | Sugar (g) | Sodium (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 250 | 30 | 6 | 12 | 4 | 5 | 300 |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my summer panzanella salad with grilled chicken or shrimp for a boost of protein, and it’s always a hit with friends. A crusty baguette or warm focaccia on the side makes the meal feel complete, especially when you’re soaking up those tasty juices. It’s an easy way to make the salad feel like a full, satisfying meal.
Grilled Protein Options
Because a Summer Panzanella salad is already packed with fresh, vibrant flavors, I like to keep the grilled protein simple to let the dish shine. I often go for chicken, shrimp, or tofu, using basic grilling techniques like direct heat for a quick sear. A light protein marinade with olive oil, lemon, garlic, and herbs adds just enough flavor without overpowering the salad. I’ve found that marinating for 30 minutes works wonders. Grilling gives the protein a smoky touch that pairs perfectly with the salad’s brightness. It’s an easy way to make the meal feel complete without stealing the spotlight.
Fresh Bread Pairings
Alongside the grilled protein, fresh bread can really elevate a Summer Panzanella salad, adding a satisfying crunch and a way to soak up all those delicious juices. I love pairing it with rustic bread types like ciabatta or sourdough, which hold up well against the salad’s bold flavors. For a twist, try garlic bread or focaccia—their herb and olive oil notes create amazing flavor combinations. Sometimes, I’ll even toast baguette slices for extra crispiness. It’s like giving the salad a cozy blanket of carbs. Trust me, the right bread makes every bite feel like a little celebration of summer.
