Description
Sweet Pepper Panzanella Salad is a vibrant Italian-inspired salad that combines juicy sweet bell peppers, ripe cherry tomatoes, and toasted crusty bread cubes. Tossed in a tangy vinaigrette made with extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and fresh garlic, this refreshing salad is enhanced by aromatic fresh basil and a hint of red onion. Perfect as a light meal or a flavorful side dish, this salad celebrates fresh summer produce with a delightful mixture of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Salad
- 3 cups crusty bread, cubed
- 2 sweet bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), sliced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Toast the Bread: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the cubed crusty bread evenly on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 10 minutes until the bread is lightly crisp and golden but not browned too deeply.
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the sliced sweet bell peppers, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and fresh basil leaves, mixing gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until emulsified and well combined.
- Combine Salad and Dressing: Add the toasted bread cubes to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat all the pieces thoroughly.
- Let the Salad Rest: Allow the salad to rest for about 10 minutes at room temperature. This resting time helps the bread absorb the flavorful dressing, softening slightly while retaining some texture.
- Serve: Once rested, give the salad a final gentle toss and serve immediately for the best freshness and texture.
Notes
- Use day-old artisan bread for the best texture, as it holds up well and soaks up the dressing without becoming mushy.
- Adding fresh mozzarella or crumbled feta cheese can add extra richness and creaminess to the salad.
- This salad is best enjoyed the day it is made to retain the freshness of the vegetables and the crispness of the bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
