Mid-Summer Italian Bread Salad (Panzanella) Recipe – A Fresh, Colourful, and Authentic Mediterranean Classic for Every Summer Table
Mid-Summer Italian Bread Salad is a refreshing Tuscan classic made with crusty bread, ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, basil, and a tangy olive oil vinaigrette. It is perfect for hot weather because it requires minimal cooking and highlights seasonal vegetables. The bread absorbs the flavorful dressing while maintaining a pleasant texture. Every bite combines juicy vegetables with aromatic herbs and rich extra virgin olive oil. It works beautifully as a side dish, appetizer, or light main course. Fresh ingredients are the secret to achieving authentic Italian flavor.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 6 cups crusty Italian bread, cubed
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 English cucumber, sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Cut the Italian bread into bite-sized cubes. Toast lightly in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes until slightly crisp.
- Wash and chop all vegetables into evenly sized pieces.
- Thinly slice the red onion and soak it in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce its sharpness.
- Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- In a large serving bowl, combine bread cubes, tomatoes, cucumber, onions, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, basil, parsley, olives, and capers.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Garnish with additional basil leaves and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use day-old artisan bread for authentic texture.
- The riper the tomatoes, the better the flavor.
- Extra virgin olive oil makes a significant difference.
- Fresh basil should be added just before serving.
- Let the salad rest before eating.
- Avoid overly soft bread that becomes mushy.
- Add fresh mozzarella for a heartier meal.
- Best enjoyed the same day it's prepared.