Cozy Panzanella Salad for Effortless Comfort (Family-Style & Fresh)
A rustic, comforting salad blending golden toasted bread, ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and a zesty basil vinaigrette. Effortless to prepare and perfect for weeknight meals.
Ingredients
- 6 oz crusty bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/8 tsp sea salt
- 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, cut into small wedges or bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, halved pearls
- 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup basil leaves, coarsely chopped, plus extra to garnish
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (for vinaigrette)
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves, grated
- 1/2 tsp salt (for vinaigrette)
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss bread cubes with 2 Tbsp olive oil and a pinch of sea salt. Spread on a baking sheet and bake 9-12 minutes until golden and crisp. Let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine toasted bread, ripe tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and sliced red onion.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk 1/2 cup olive oil, red wine vinegar, grated garlic, 1/2 tsp salt, and black pepper to create the vinaigrette.
- Fold the vinaigrette into the salad, then stir in 1/2 cup basil. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Toss gently to combine. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
Toast the bread until crisp for ideal texture absorption of dressing. Use vine-ripened tomatoes for juiciness and sweetness. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6g
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